Ogawa Sushi & Kappo

For discerning diners in Pennsylvania seeking an extraordinary Japanese culinary adventure, Ogawa Sushi & Kappo in Philadelphia stands as a beacon of excellence. This isn't just another sushi restaurant; it's a destination where the art of Japanese cuisine, particularly through omakase and kappo styles, is elevated to a remarkable level. Prepare to embark on a journey of flavors, textures, and impeccable service that will redefine your perception of Japanese dining.

Introduction / Overview

Ogawa Sushi & Kappo has swiftly become a standout in Philadelphia's competitive dining scene, earning a reputation for delivering an exceptional and unique dining experience. Specializing in both omakase and kappo styles, the restaurant offers a chef-driven journey through the finest, freshest ingredients, many sourced directly from Japan. Omakase, meaning "I'll leave it up to you," places complete trust in the chef to curate a multi-course meal, often at a sushi bar, showcasing their skill and the day's best ingredients. Kappo, meaning "to cut and to cook," offers a less formal yet still intimate multi-course experience where diners can often observe the chef's precise preparations directly.

Patrons consistently describe their visits to Ogawa as "remarkable" and "incredible," particularly highlighting the 23-course omakase experience. This extensive tasting menu features not only exquisitely fresh fish but also unique and innovative dishes that push culinary boundaries. Beyond the food, the service at Ogawa is frequently lauded as "outstanding" and "top-notch." Chefs and servers, such as Andy and Chrissy, are praised for being highly knowledgeable, personable, and friendly, actively contributing to the overall enjoyment of the meal. The option of a sake pairing is highly recommended, as it perfectly complements each course, elevating the entire experience to a new level. Ogawa Sushi & Kappo is quickly becoming recognized as one of the best omakase establishments in Philadelphia, offering a perfect setting for special occasions or for any sushi lover seeking a truly unique and memorable dining adventure.

Location and Accessibility

Ogawa Sushi & Kappo is strategically located at 310 Market St, Philadelphia, PA 19106, USA. This address places it squarely in the historic and vibrant Old City neighborhood of Philadelphia. Old City is a popular destination for both locals and tourists, known for its rich history, charming cobblestone streets, and a burgeoning culinary scene.

The central location in Old City provides excellent accessibility for diners across Pennsylvania. For those utilizing public transportation, numerous SEPTA bus routes serve the area, and it's within a reasonable walking distance from several subway stations, making it convenient to reach from various parts of Philadelphia. If you're driving, Old City has several parking garages and lots, though it's always advisable to plan ahead, especially during peak dining hours. Its proximity to major highways also makes it an accessible destination for those venturing from surrounding Pennsylvania suburbs. The area itself is quite walkable, allowing diners to enjoy a stroll through historical sites or art galleries before or after their exceptional meal at Ogawa.

Services Offered

Ogawa Sushi & Kappo focuses on delivering a refined and immersive Japanese dining experience, primarily centered around its multi-course menus.

• Omakase Dining Experience: This is the signature offering, where the chef curates a multi-course meal (often 23 courses) based on the freshest, highest-quality seasonal ingredients. This is typically enjoyed at the sushi counter for an intimate, interactive experience with the chef.

• Kappo Style Dining: While closely related to omakase, Kappo emphasizes a more informal yet still chef-driven multi-course meal where guests can observe the various "cutting and cooking" techniques directly from the counter.

• Sake Pairings: Highly recommended by patrons, Ogawa offers expertly curated sake pairings to complement each course of the omakase experience, enhancing the flavors and overall enjoyment.

• Extensive Beverage Menu: Beyond sake, the restaurant also features a selection of whiskey, wine, and beers to accompany your meal.

• Reservations: Given its intimate setting and demand, reservations are essential for the omakase experience. They typically open on the first day of each month for future bookings, often via OpenTable.

• Private Events/Larger Parties: While primarily focused on intimate dining, for parties larger than four, it is advised to reach out directly to the restaurant via email to inquire about accommodations.

Features / Highlights

Ogawa Sushi & Kappo distinguishes itself through several exceptional features and highlights that contribute to its acclaimed dining experience:

• Exceptional Omakase Experience: This is the cornerstone of Ogawa's reputation. Patrons rave about the "remarkable" and "unique" 23-course omakase, which offers an extensive journey through top-quality, fresh ingredients sourced directly from Japan. Each bite is described as "incredible."

• Top-Quality, Fresh Ingredients: The restaurant prides itself on serving "fresh fishes" and "top quality ingredients," ensuring an authentic and superior taste experience. The commitment to sourcing the best is evident in every dish.

• Unique and Inventive Dishes: Beyond traditional sushi, Ogawa presents "very unique" dishes that showcase culinary creativity and innovation, making the omakase a truly "unique dining experience" in Philadelphia.

• Outstanding and Personable Service: The service consistently receives high praise. Chefs, such as Chef Andy, and servers, like Chrissy, are noted for being "highly knowledgeable, personable, and friendly," greatly enhancing the overall enjoyment and making guests feel truly cared for.

• Expert Sake Pairings: The recommended sake pairing is a significant highlight, meticulously chosen to elevate each course of the omakase, providing a harmonious and "next level" gastronomic journey.

• Intimate and Elegant Ambiance: While not explicitly detailed, the nature of omakase and kappo dining typically implies an intimate setting, often at a counter, allowing for direct interaction with the chefs and a focused appreciation of the culinary artistry.

• Perfect for Special Occasions: Reviews consistently highlight Ogawa as an ideal choice for celebrating birthdays, anniversaries, or any special event, thanks to its exceptional quality and memorable experience.

• Reasonable Value for Quality: Despite offering top-tier ingredients and a multi-course experience, customers find the pricing to be "very reasonable price for these top quality ingredients," especially the $200 for 23 courses, considering the caliber of the meal.

Promotions or Special Offers

Given the high-end, experience-focused nature of Ogawa Sushi & Kappo, traditional "promotions" or "special offers" in the sense of discounts are less common. The value is intrinsically built into the quality and uniqueness of their omakase and kappo experiences. However, based on available information:

• Midweek Date Night Omakase: Ogawa offers a "Midweek date night: Omakase for Two" priced at $250 per party. This is a 16-course omakase, presented as a shorter, more approachable version of their full omakase, making it a great option for a midweek evening or a first-time omakase experience for couples.

• Mini Sake Pairing Upgrade: Alongside the Midweek Date Night Omakase, guests have the option to upgrade their meal with a Mini Sake Pairing for an additional $50 per pairing, offering a selection of four premium sakes.

• Chase Sapphire Reserve Exclusive Tables: For Chase Sapphire Reserve cardmembers, there may be access to exclusive primetime reservations and a potential semi-annual statement credit for dining at select restaurants, which could include Ogawa. It's advisable for cardholders to check their Chase Sapphire Reserve benefits for current details.

• Gift Cards: While not a promotion, gift cards are available, providing an excellent way to share the Ogawa experience with others for special occasions.

For the most current information on any offerings, it is always recommended to check their official website or OpenTable reservation page directly.

Contact Information

To experience the remarkable dining at Ogawa Sushi & Kappo, you can find their contact details below:

• Address: 310 Market St, Philadelphia, PA 19106, USA

• Phone: (215) 238-5757

For reservations, which are highly recommended due to the intimate nature and popularity of the omakase experience, it is best to book through their official website or OpenTable. Reservations for the omakase counter typically open on the first day of each month at 1:00 PM for future dates.

Their general operating hours are:

• Monday & Tuesday: Closed

• Wednesday - Sunday: 5:30 PM - 10:30 PM

Omakase counter seatings are usually available Wednesday through Sunday from 5:30 PM to 8:00 PM. It is crucial to arrive at least 10 minutes before your reservation time to ensure you don't miss any part of the curated experience.

Conclusion: Why this place is suitable for locals

For residents across Pennsylvania, particularly those in the greater Philadelphia area, Ogawa Sushi & Kappo is more than just a Japanese restaurant; it's a culinary institution that caters to those seeking a truly elevated and memorable dining experience. Its location in the charming and historically rich Old City neighborhood makes it easily accessible for a special night out, offering a perfect blend of convenience and sophistication.

Ogawa is particularly suitable for locals who appreciate high-quality, fresh ingredients and a unique approach to Japanese cuisine. As one of Philadelphia's top omakase destinations, it offers a distinct advantage for those looking for a chef-curated journey that goes beyond a typical menu. The "remarkable" 23-course omakase is an unparalleled opportunity to savor expertly prepared, unique dishes, making it an ideal choice for anniversaries, birthdays, or simply a luxurious treat. The value offered at $200 for 23 courses, considering the top-tier ingredients and experience, is seen as "very reasonable" by patrons who understand the caliber of this kind of dining.

Furthermore, the emphasis on outstanding, personable service – where chefs like Andy and servers like Chrissy become an integral part of the experience – fosters a connection that encourages repeat visits. The highly recommended sake pairings also provide a unique opportunity to explore Japanese beverages in a guided, enriching way. For Pennsylvanians looking for an intimate, elegant, and truly unique gastronomic adventure that consistently delivers "incredible" bites and creates lasting memories, Ogawa Sushi & Kappo is undoubtedly a premier choice that every sushi lover should try at least once. It’s an investment in a culinary journey that showcases the pinnacle of Japanese artistry right here in Philadelphia.

Ogawa Sushi & Kappo

310 Market St, Philadelphia, PA 19106, USA