What is Omakase?
Omakase (お任せ) translates to "I leave it up to you" in Japanese. It is a Japanese fine dining experience that allows the chef complete creative freedom to curate a meal based on the freshest seasonal ingredients and the chef’s expertise. Of course, the chef will still accommodate the guest’s preferences if there is allergy or sensitivity. Therefore, this intimate connection between chef and diner makes omakase a celebration of trust and artistry.
The experience includes a progression of meticulously prepared dishes served one at a time. Omakase is more than just the elegant presentation of fish. It can incorporate grilled or simmered items and tempura. Each piece is crafted with precision, honouring traditional Japanese techniques while showcasing the chef's unique touch.
Why Omakase is Unique
Omakase is more than just a meal—it’s an immersive journey. Unlike ordering from a menu, omakase dining is dynamic and evolving. The chef adapts the menu based on the availability of ingredients, the diner’s preferences, and even the mood of the evening.
This approach highlights the philosophy of seasonality, emphasizing ingredients at their peak freshness. From the delicate slicing of fish for sushi to the timing of serving freshly fried tempura, every detail is meticulously planned to provide the ultimate dining experience.
Omakase in Toronto
Toronto has embraced omakase as a cornerstone of its vibrant Japanese culinary scene. Restaurants across the city offer diverse takes on this tradition, often incorporating local ingredients alongside premium selections imported from Japan.
Among the options for omakase in Toronto, Sushi Omakase remains the most prevalent. These meals focus on nigiri (fish on top of seasoned rice) and sashimi (prime-cut of fish), showcasing premium fish and the chef’s knife skills. Sushi Omakase highlights the purity and simplicity of Japanese cuisine, delivering an unparalleled experience for sushi enthusiasts.
For those seeking a unique twist, KIYOMI Omakase - Japanese Fine Dining serves Toronto’s only Tempura Omakase, a rare and refined offering. Here, tempura is elevated to an art form, with ingredients like fresh seafood and vegetables encased in a light, golden batter. This innovative approach sets KIYOMI apart as a pioneer in the city’s omakase scene.
Why Choose Omakase in Toronto?
Omakase dining in Toronto offers an exceptional opportunity to explore Japanese cuisine through the lens of highly skilled chefs. Whether you’re new to omakase or a seasoned enthusiast, Toronto’s omakase restaurants provide a perfect blend of authenticity and innovation.
Choosing an omakase experience at KIYOMI guarantees an unforgettable evening. With over 30 years of culinary expertise, our chefs craft a tasting menu that reflects the finest traditions of Japan while pushing creative boundaries. From the elegance of sushi omakase to the exclusivity of tempura omakase, KIYOMI is the ultimate destination for omakase in Toronto.