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Japanese RestaurantJapanese Restaurant Near MeNew YorkNew York CountyNew YorkJapanese Restaurant in East 1st StreetKawa Omakase
Kawa Omakase ico

Kawa Omakase

Sushi restaurant, Japanese restaurant ★4.0 (33)·$50–100

37 E 1st St, New York, NY 10003, USA

4.0
We had an incredible experience at Kawa. I’m a regular at omakase restaurants, and this one stands out as one of the highest quality and most creative menus, especially considering the price point. The restaurant wasn’t too crowded, which gave us ample time to chat with the chef, Tony, and Ryan about the restaurant’s opening. They were incredibly accommodating of our dietary restrictions, which was a huge plus. It was hard to pick a favorite dish because each one was simply wonderful. We wish Kawa the best of luck in their new restaurant and will definitely be returning! - Jacquelyn Price
Kawa Omakase Overview Intro Menu Detail Photos Location Reviews
$50–100 per person Reported by 33 people$30–50$50–100$100+

Kawa Omakase Introduce

An Introduction to Kawa Omakase: A Hidden Gem in the East Village

In the vibrant and ever-evolving culinary scene of New York City, finding a sushi restaurant that offers a truly exceptional experience without an exorbitant price tag can feel like a quest. Nestled in the heart of the East Village, Kawa Omakase stands out as a remarkable new addition, quickly earning a reputation for its high-quality, creative menu and welcoming atmosphere. The term "omakase," which means "I leave it up to you" in Japanese, perfectly encapsulates the dining philosophy here. Diners put their trust in the skilled chefs to guide them through a meticulously curated sequence of dishes, ensuring each bite is a delightful surprise.

Kawa Omakase offers a refreshingly personal dining experience. The restaurant is known for being uncrowded, allowing guests to interact directly with the chefs and staff. Chef Tony and the team are celebrated by patrons for their friendliness, approachability, and willingness to accommodate dietary restrictions—a significant plus in the world of high-end dining. This intimate setting transforms a meal into a conversation, making every visit feel like a special occasion. Whether you're celebrating a birthday or simply seeking a sublime dinner, Kawa Omakase provides a memorable and unique experience that feels both luxurious and genuinely personal.

Location and Accessibility

Kawa Omakase is perfectly situated at 37 E 1st St, New York, NY 10003, USA, placing it in one of the city's most lively and accessible neighborhoods. The East Village is a hub of culture, with a rich history and a dynamic mix of shops, bars, and restaurants. The restaurant's location is easily reachable via several subway lines and is also very convenient for those using ride-sharing services. The address is straightforward to locate, making it a simple destination for locals and visitors alike.

Being in the heart of a bustling area, Kawa Omakase is a great starting point for a night out. You can enjoy a sophisticated dinner before exploring the vibrant nightlife and unique boutiques that the East Village is famous for. The restaurant's cozy and trendy atmosphere makes it a perfect retreat from the city's hustle and bustle, providing an intimate setting to relax and savor every moment of your meal.

Services Offered

  • Dine-in Only: Kawa Omakase is exclusively focused on providing an exceptional on-site dining experience. The chefs create each dish to be enjoyed immediately, ensuring the highest quality and freshness. The intimate setting encourages guests to immerse themselves fully in the culinary journey.

  • Table Service: The restaurant offers full table service, with an attentive and friendly staff dedicated to making your dinner as enjoyable as possible. The chefs and front-of-house team are known for being incredibly accommodating, creating a personalized experience for every guest.

  • Dinner Service: The primary focus of Kawa Omakase is dinner, which is the perfect time to experience their full omakase menu. This is when the restaurant truly shines, offering a memorable evening of culinary exploration.

  • Alcohol Offerings: To complement your meal, Kawa Omakase provides a curated selection of alcoholic beverages. Their sake menu features premium options like DASSAI 45 JUNMAI DAIGINJO and KUBOTA JUNMAI DAIGINJO, perfect for pairing with the delicate flavors of the sushi. They also serve Sapporo Premium Beer and other beverages like Saratoga Sparkling Water.

Features and Highlights

  • Exceptional Omakase Menu: The heart of Kawa Omakase is its creative and high-quality menu. The chefs showcase a remarkable range of ingredients and techniques, featuring standout dishes like Otoro with Kaluga Caviar, King Salmon with Truffle, and premium Miyazaki A5 wagyu beef. The menu changes to reflect the freshest seasonal ingredients, ensuring each visit is unique.

  • Affordable Price Point: Customers consistently praise Kawa Omakase for providing an incredible omakase experience at a price that is more accessible than many other high-end sushi spots in the city. This makes it an excellent value for the quality of food and service you receive.

  • Intimate and Welcoming Atmosphere: The restaurant is described as cozy and trendy, creating a comfortable yet sophisticated environment. It is not overly crowded, which allows for a more personal and interactive experience with the chefs and staff.

  • Accommodating Staff: A major highlight noted by guests is the friendliness and flexibility of the staff, including Chef Tony. They are highly accommodating of dietary restrictions and preferences, making every effort to ensure all guests have a wonderful dining experience.

  • On-site Bar and Restroom Facilities: For added convenience, Kawa Omakase has a well-stocked on-site bar and clean, gender-neutral restroom facilities, making your dining experience comfortable and seamless.

  • Accepts Credit Cards: Payment is hassle-free, as the restaurant accepts all major credit cards, providing a convenient and secure way to settle your bill.

Contact Information

Address: 37 E 1st St, New York, NY 10003, USA

Phone: (347) 619-3346

What is Worth Choosing

Choosing Kawa Omakase is a decision to experience a level of culinary craftsmanship and personal service that is truly exceptional, especially considering its value. The restaurant’s greatest strength lies in its ability to deliver a top-tier omakase experience at a price point that is more approachable than its competitors. This means you can indulge in luxurious ingredients like Otoro with Kaluga Caviar and Miyazaki A5 wagyu beef without the typical high-end sticker shock. The chefs, led by the highly praised Chef Tony, are not just preparing food; they are creating art, with each course thoughtfully designed to surprise and delight your palate.

The menu is a testament to their creativity and skill. From the delicate Madai to the rich Gindara and the unique Salmon Tomato, every piece is a highlight. The sake menu is carefully selected to complement the food, offering premium choices that enhance the overall dining experience. It’s clear that every detail, from the sourcing of ingredients to the presentation of each dish, is handled with care and precision.

What truly sets Kawa Omakase apart is the personal connection you make with the staff. The intimate setting allows for engaging conversations with the chefs, making your meal more than just food—it's an interactive and educational experience. The genuine warmth and friendliness of the team, who go out of their way to accommodate guests, create a welcoming atmosphere that makes you feel like an honored guest. This personal touch, combined with the outstanding quality of the food, makes Kawa Omakase a standout choice in a city full of options. It's the perfect place for a memorable birthday, a special anniversary, or simply a night out when you want to treat yourself to something truly wonderful.

Kawa Omakase Menu

  • Menu Highlights

  • Chef specials
  • Salmon Tomato

    Tender salmon with sweet tomato and a touch of umami glaze — fresh, simple, and balanced.

  • Otoro w. Kaluga Caviar

    Buttery otoro topped with premium Kaluga caviar — a rich, luxurious bite that melts in your mouth

  • Madai

    Delicate red snapper (madai) nigiri, lightly aged and hand-sliced to highlight its natural sweetness and clean finish.

  • Gindara

    Buttery gindara (sablefish) delicately roasted and topped with aromatic truffle. A luxurious, melt-in-your-mouth bite crafted for depth and elegance.

  • Hotate

    Sweet Hokkaido hotate (sea scallop) finished with a touch of fresh lime zest. Light, clean, and vibrant — a refreshing citrus-accented bite we call “lime jazz.

  • Botan Ebi

    Plump and naturally sweet botan ebi (spot prawn), served raw to highlight its delicate texture and clean ocean flavor. A classic omakase favorite.

  • King salmon with Truffle

    Rich, silky New Zealand king salmon topped with fragrant summer truffle. A luxurious pairing of ocean and earth, crafted for a smooth, umami-filled finish.

  • Miyazaki A5 wagyu beef

    Premium Miyazaki A5 wagyu beef, renowned for its exceptional marbling and melt-in-your-mouth tenderness. A true highlight of the Kawa Omakase experience.

  • Sake Menu

  • DASSAI 45 JUNMAI DAIGINJO $35.00

    Chewy and full of body. Light honeydew aromas with the subtle sweetness of muscat grapes, complemented by an undercurrent of crisp dryness. Reminiscent of white wine in the best possible way.

  • KUBOTA JUNMAI DAIGINJO $38.00

    A refined sake with a clean finish. Delicate notes of pear and apple create a light, refreshing profile, perfect for subtle dishes.

  • HAKKAISAN 45 JUNMAI DAIGINJO $42.00

    A refined sake with a restrained and delicate aroma, offering hints of steamed rice with the barest touch of florality and earthiness. The first sip evokes a gentle rice flavor with a pristine and invigorating dry finish

  • NIHON SAKARI YUZU $32.00

    A vibrant yuzu-infused sake with a bright, citrusy profile. Its sweet-tart balance and refreshing finish make it an ideal aperitif or pairing for light dishes.

  • HAKUTSURU JUNMAI DAI GINJO SHO-UNE PREMIUM SAKE $42.00

    A supreme sake with a velvety smooth texture. Fruity aromas of white peach and pear create a deeply complex yet easy-drinking profile.

  • HAKUTSURU Plum Wine $48.00

    A sweet and tart plum wine with rich ume fruit flavors. Its balanced sweetness and refreshing acidity make it a delightful aperitif or dessert wine.

  • SAPPORO PREMIUM Beer $8.00

    A refreshing lager with a crisp, refined flavor and a clean finish, ideal for any occasion.

  • SARATOGA SPARKLING Water Bottle $5.50

    A premium carbonated spring water with fine bubbles, offering a crisp and refreshing taste.

Kawa Omakase Details

  • Service options

  • Dine-in
  • Delivery
  • Takeout
  • Popular for

  • Dinner
  • Offerings

  • Alcohol
  • Dining options

  • Dinner
  • Table service
  • Amenities

  • Bar onsite
  • Gender-neutral restroom
  • Restroom
  • Atmosphere

  • Cozy
  • Trendy
  • Payments

  • Credit cards

Kawa Omakase Photos

Kawa Omakase Picture 1Kawa Omakase Picture 2Kawa Omakase Picture 3Kawa Omakase Picture 4Kawa Omakase Picture 5Kawa Omakase Picture 6Kawa Omakase Picture 7Kawa Omakase Picture 8Kawa Omakase Picture 9Kawa Omakase Picture 10

Kawa Omakase Location

Kawa Omakase

37 E 1st St, New York, NY 10003, USA

Kawa Omakase Reviews

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