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Japanese RestaurantJapanese Restaurant Near MePennsylvaniaPhiladelphia CountyPhiladelphiaGayborhoodJapanese Restaurant in Chestnut StreetSushi by Bou - Midtown PA @ Raw
Sushi by Bou - Midtown PA @ Raw ico

Sushi by Bou - Midtown PA @ Raw

1224 Chestnut St, Philadelphia, PA 19107, USA

4.0
Came here 1/18/25 for a 7 o’clock $100 17 course omakase, not my first choice but was open to try. We got there a little early and were sat at bar a little after the 7pm start time , I was taking a pause from drinking for dry January so only drank water which they didn’t get to refill until the end. The course does come with one complimentary shot.The pace was fairly quick between bites, the 3 course prawn was not good lol and of the 17 there were maybe 2 that I really liked and 2 that was good good which were the ikura salmon roe, gindara miso black cod, maguro the chopped tuna , wagyuni surf n turf. The rest were ok and our one in party was hoping they had a good suggestion for a checklist so we know what we’re eating and also for bigger servicing of 2 of eat piece instead of just the lowly one bite lol but guess they didn’t expect that is omakase lol.The ala carte choices sounded good like the Big Mac and guess I should have tried but was ready to leave lol. Small space with the one small lounge space we sat at for minute before being sat. It’s worth maybe doing the 12 course and maybe adding on ala carte, nice staff but I’d rather check out the other omakase spots or just get regular sushi orders that I haven’t tried yet. - joe song
Sushi by Bou - Midtown PA @ Raw Overview Intro Photos Location Reviews

Sushi by Bou - Midtown PA @ Raw Introduce

For those in Pennsylvania seeking an elevated and truly immersive sushi experience, Sushi by Bou - Midtown PA @ Raw offers a distinctive culinary journey unlike any other. Located in the vibrant heart of Philadelphia, this establishment reimagines the traditional omakase concept, transforming it into an exclusive, intimate, and often lively "speakeasy" dining adventure. It's a place where you surrender to the chef's expertise, allowing them to guide you through a meticulously crafted sequence of fresh, flavorful sushi pieces.

Sushi by Bou is more than just a meal; it's an artistic performance where precision, fresh ingredients, and bold flavors take center stage. While some might be accustomed to ordering à la carte, the omakase experience, meaning "I'll leave it up to you," invites diners to trust the chef's daily selections and creative vision. This unique approach ensures that every bite is a surprise and a delight, showcasing the finest seasonal ingredients and the chef's masterful technique. For locals in Pennsylvania looking for a special occasion dining spot, a unique date night, or simply an unparalleled sushi experience, Sushi by Bou - Midtown PA @ Raw provides an unforgettable escape.

Location and Accessibility

Sushi by Bou - Midtown PA @ Raw is conveniently located at 1224 Chestnut St, Philadelphia, PA 19107, USA. Situated within the bustling Center City district, its address places it at the nexus of Philadelphia’s dynamic urban landscape. This central location makes it highly accessible for residents across Pennsylvania, whether they're commuting from the suburbs or already in the city for work or leisure.

Chestnut Street is a major thoroughfare, well-served by Philadelphia's robust public transportation network. Numerous SEPTA bus routes pass directly by or very close to the location. Furthermore, it's just a short walk from key subway stations on both the Broad Street Line (serving Walnut-Locust and City Hall stations) and the Market-Frankford Line, connecting it easily to various parts of the city and beyond. While Center City parking can be challenging, there are several parking garages and lots within close proximity, offering convenient options for those who choose to drive. This strategic and easily reachable location ensures that Pennsylvanians can comfortably access this unique sushi destination without significant travel hassle, making it an ideal choice for a special evening out.

Services Offered

Sushi by Bou - Midtown PA @ Raw specializes in a distinctive omakase dining experience, designed for intimacy and culinary exploration:

  • Omakase Dining: The core offering is a chef-curated tasting menu, where the chef selects and prepares each piece of sushi based on the freshest ingredients available. This ensures a unique and surprising culinary journey.
  • Signature 12-Course Omakase: This classic experience provides a meticulously crafted selection of premium sushi pieces, typically designed to be enjoyed within a timed 60-minute seating. It's perfect for those new to omakase or seeking a focused tasting.
  • Indulgent Bougie 17-Course Omakase: For a more extensive and luxurious experience, this option offers additional courses, allowing for a deeper exploration of flavors and ingredients.
  • À La Carte Add-ons: While the primary focus is omakase, guests have the option to order additional à la carte pieces after their course, allowing them to revisit favorites or try new enticing items like the "Big Mac" roll (Wagyu, scallop, toro, truffle).
  • Intimate Bar Seating: The experience is typically enjoyed at a sushi bar, fostering direct interaction with the chef, who explains each piece and can subtly adjust to guest preferences.
  • Craft Cocktails & Sake: The restaurant offers a selection of craft cocktails, imported sake, and other beverages to perfectly complement the sushi. A complimentary shot may be included with the omakase course.
  • Unique "Speakeasy" Ambiance: The Midtown location offers a distinctive "DISCOMAKASE" theme, with velvet booths, mirror balls, and a black-and-white gallery inspired by the disco era (think Studio 54 meets sushi).
  • DJ on Weekends: On Friday and Saturday nights, Sushi by Bou transforms into "BouBar," featuring live DJs spinning disco and house music, creating a vibrant lounge experience.
Features / Highlights

Sushi by Bou - Midtown PA @ Raw distinguishes itself through several unique features and highlights that enhance the dining experience:

  • Chef-Driven Omakase: The "I leave it up to you" concept is central, allowing the highly skilled chefs (like Chef Harris, mentioned in reviews) to showcase their artistry and the freshest available ingredients. Chefs are often attentive and willing to make "slight tweaks to cater to our taste."
  • Exceptional Freshness & Bold Flavors: Reviews consistently praise the "very fresh ingredients" and "bold flavors" of the sushi. While individual preferences for specific pieces vary, the overall quality and taste are highly regarded.
  • Unique Thematic Decor: The Midtown location stands out with its "gorgeous decor" and "disco theme," complete with velvet booths and mirror balls, offering an immersive and visually stimulating environment unlike traditional sushi bars. This "Studio 54 meets sushi" vibe is a key part of its appeal.
  • Intimate and Exclusive Setting: Described as a "speakeasy," the space is intimate, fostering a close connection between diners and the sushi chefs, adding to the exclusivity of the experience.
  • Engaging Staff: Patrons frequently commend the friendly and attentive service from both the chefs and the front-of-house staff, including bartenders and hosts. This strong hospitality contributes significantly to the overall positive experience.
  • Fast-Paced Experience: The omakase is designed to be a "timed" experience (e.g., 60 minutes for the 12-course), ensuring a dynamic and efficient flow between each course, which some diners appreciate for its energy.
  • Premium Ingredients: The menu often features high-quality items like Ikura (salmon roe), Gindara (miso black cod), Maguro (chopped tuna), and Wagyuni (surf & turf), indicating a focus on premium and sometimes adventurous selections.
Promotions or Special Offers

Sushi by Bou - Midtown PA @ Raw's pricing for its omakase experience is generally structured as a set fee for either the 12-course or 17-course option. As of recent information, the 12-course Signature Omakase is typically around $65 per person, while the 17-course Bougie Omakase can be around $125 per person. These prices can be subject to change, so it's always recommended for Pennsylvania locals to verify directly with the restaurant or on their official booking platforms.

While explicit "promotions" in the traditional sense (like discounts) are not consistently advertised beyond these core offerings, the unique value of a timed omakase experience at these price points is often considered a special offer in itself for this caliber of dining. Occasionally, they might have special events or collaborations. The inclusion of a complimentary shot with the omakase is a noted benefit. It is always wise to check their official website or social media channels for any limited-time offers or special events that might be available to enhance your visit.

Contact Information

For reservations or to inquire further about the unique omakase experience at Sushi by Bou - Midtown PA @ Raw, here’s how you can reach them:

Address: 1224 Chestnut St, Philadelphia, PA 19107, USA

Phone: (888) 670-5996 or +1 888-670-5996

Reservations are highly recommended due to the intimate and timed nature of the omakase experience. You can typically book your spot online through their official website or various reservation platforms. Their hours of operation are generally from 5:00 PM to 11:00 PM (or later on weekends), but it is best to confirm current times directly.

Conclusion: Why This Place is Suitable for Locals

For residents throughout Pennsylvania, especially those in the Philadelphia metropolitan area, Sushi by Bou - Midtown PA @ Raw offers a distinctive and compelling reason to venture into Center City. It’s more than just a sushi restaurant; it’s an immersive culinary event designed for those who appreciate high-quality ingredients, expert craftsmanship, and a touch of theatrical flair. The convenient location on Chestnut Street ensures easy access for commuters and city dwellers alike, making it an ideal choice for a spontaneous indulgence or a planned special occasion.

The core omakase experience, where you entrust your meal to the chef, provides a thrilling journey through fresh and bold flavors, ensuring that every visit is unique. This is complemented by the highly attentive service from chefs like Harris, who are praised for catering to individual tastes, and friendly front-of-house staff. The "DISCOMAKASE" theme at the Midtown location adds a playful and vibrant atmosphere, elevating the dining experience beyond just the food. Whether you're seeking a quick yet exquisite sushi fix, a memorable date night, or simply an escape into a world of culinary artistry, Sushi by Bou - Midtown PA @ Raw offers a consistent and high-quality option that sets it apart in Philadelphia's competitive dining scene. It's a true local highlight for sushi enthusiasts looking for something truly special.

Sushi by Bou - Midtown PA @ Raw Photos

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Sushi by Bou - Midtown PA @ Raw Location

Sushi by Bou - Midtown PA @ Raw

1224 Chestnut St, Philadelphia, PA 19107, USA

Sushi by Bou - Midtown PA @ Raw Reviews

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