Sushi Mumi

For New Yorkers with a deep appreciation for the artistry and intimacy of omakase, Sushi Mumi in the East Village is swiftly becoming the benchmark for an extraordinary sushi experience. This isn't merely a restaurant; it's a meticulously crafted culinary journey where trust in the chef yields truly remarkable rewards. Omakase, the Japanese tradition of entrusting your meal to the chef, is elevated to an art form at Sushi Mumi, particularly under the masterful guidance of Chef Marco Lin. Formerly an esteemed alum of the Michelin-starred Ginza Onodera (which closed its New York location in August 2023), Chef Lin brings a wealth of expertise, dedication, and a genuinely warm presence to the counter.

Sushi Mumi offers a premium, multi-course omakase menu that seamlessly blends traditional Edomae-style nigiri with innovative and delicious otsumami (small appetizers). Every piece served is a testament to freshness, high quality, and exquisite preparation. Beyond the impeccable food, what truly sets Sushi Mumi apart is the personalized and engaging experience. Chef Lin actively interacts with his guests, explaining each dish with passion, while the incredibly friendly service staff, like the celebrated "Tony," ensure every need is anticipated, making each visit an "unforgettable experience." If you're seeking a proper, high-tier omakase that resonates with both connoisseurs and those celebrating special moments, Sushi Mumi is poised to capture your heart.

Sushi Mumi is perfectly situated in the vibrant and historically rich East Village of Manhattan, specifically at 130 St Marks Pl, New York, NY 10009, USA. St. Marks Place is an iconic street in New York City, known for its eclectic character, bohemian spirit, and diverse array of eateries, bars, and unique shops. This location places Sushi Mumi right in the heart of a lively neighborhood, yet within its walls, you'll find a serene and intimate escape.

The accessibility of Sushi Mumi is excellent for New Yorkers utilizing public transportation. St. Marks Place is just a short walk from several major subway lines. The 6 train at Astor Place and the N, Q, R, W trains at 8th Street-NYU station are both very convenient. The L train at 14th Street-Union Square is also easily reachable, connecting Mumi to a vast network across Manhattan and Brooklyn. Numerous MTA bus routes also serve the East Village area, providing additional options for getting to and from the restaurant.

Notably, Sushi Mumi occupies the former space of another well-regarded sushi spot, Kura (RIP), but it has been completely transformed. While St. Marks Place outside might be bustling, stepping into Sushi Mumi is like entering a tranquil "sushiya," allowing diners to fully immerse themselves in the culinary performance. The space is described as "small and intimate," fostering a communal and friendly atmosphere among guests, making it a comfortable and engaging place to experience world-class sushi.

• Omakase Dining Experience: Sushi Mumi specializes exclusively in a premium, multi-course omakase tasting menu, providing a curated culinary journey guided by the chef.
• Chef-Led Interaction: Chef Marco Lin actively engages with guests at the counter, explaining each dish, its ingredients, and techniques, enhancing the educational and personal aspect of the omakase.
• Table and Counter Seating: While the counter offers direct interaction with the chef, Sushi Mumi also provides comfortable table seating for those who prefer it, all within a "cozy but not cramped" space.
• Special Occasion Accommodations: The restaurant pays close attention to special occasions, as evidenced by their delightful surprise for birthdays, making it an ideal choice for celebrations.
• Bespoke Beverage Pairings: While not explicitly detailed, the nature of a high-end omakase suggests an expertly curated selection of sake, wine, and other beverages to complement the sushi. Servers like "Sarah" (from a related review for Rosella at the same address, implying cross-venue hospitality excellence) are praised for tailored wine recommendations.
• Reservation System: Sushi Mumi operates primarily by reservation, typically through platforms like Resy, ensuring a controlled and intimate dining experience.
• Dietary Accommodations: While the omakase is chef's choice, it is advisable to communicate any severe dietary restrictions or allergies when making a reservation to see if they can be accommodated.

• Exceptional Omakase Prowess: Sushi Mumi is heralded as one of the "absolute BEST Omakase" experiences in New York. The chef's selection of seasonal, high-quality, and absolutely delicious fish and cooked dishes is consistently lauded.
• Masterful Chef Marco Lin: A standout feature is Executive Chef Marco Lin, an alum of the Michelin-starred Ginza Onodera. His "dedication to his craft," "outgoing" personality, and genuine "kindness and hospitality" are repeatedly praised by guests, making the omakase interactive and memorable.
• Pristine Fish Quality: Every piece of sushi and sashimi is described as "fresh, high quality & absolutely delicious." The neta (fish toppings) are seasonal, and the shari (sushi rice) is cooked to perfection with a distinct red hue and salty tang from the blend of two types of Akazu (red vinegar), showcasing high caliber technique.
• Creative and Diverse Otsumami: Beyond nigiri, the omakase shines with its cooked dishes, or otsumami. Highlights mentioned include "hamo or pike conger with jasmine vinegar jelly" (a crowd favorite), "amadai fried with scales on with hairy crab sauce," and "grilled nodoguro," demonstrating the chef's skill beyond raw fish.
• Impeccable and Friendly Service: The service staff, exemplified by "Tony," are described as "extremely friendly, helpful & funny," making the overall experience that much better. They provide attentive, polite service, ensuring water and sake glasses are always full without being intrusive.
• Intimate and Engaging Atmosphere: The small, cozy, and intimate space fosters a friendly environment where guests often make friends with those around them, adding to the communal and enjoyable dining experience.
• Thoughtful Special Occasion Recognition: Sushi Mumi goes above and beyond for special occasions, as demonstrated by the surprise "Yuzu Ice cream with peppercorn" (a unique and delicious combo) and communal singing for a birthday celebration, creating truly "unforgettable" moments.
• Strong Pedigree: The fact that Chef Lin is a former Ginza Onodera alum assures sushi connoisseurs of the high level of skill and authentic Edomae-style preparation they can expect.
• Higher Tier, Worthwhile Investment: While the menu is on the "higher tier of the sushi circuit" at $250+ per person (before tax/gratuity), many reviewers agree it holds its own against even more expensive omakase spots and is "worth every penny." It's seen as a refreshing "break from the budget omakases."

As a high-end omakase restaurant, Sushi Mumi does not typically offer public "promotions" or discounts in the conventional sense. The value they provide is embedded in their premium, curated dining experience. However, there are aspects of their service that act as unique "offers" to their clientele:

• All-Inclusive Omakase Experience: The $250 per person omakase price (excluding beverage, tax, and gratuity) is for a comprehensive 18-course meal, featuring 5 otsumami, 10 nigiri/sushi pieces, tamago, soup, and dessert. This structured menu ensures a full culinary journey without hidden costs for the core food experience.
• Personalized Special Occasion Touches: As highlighted by reviews, Sushi Mumi excels at recognizing and celebrating special occasions. While not a discount, the surprise birthday dessert with a candle and communal singing creates an "unforgettable" and value-added personalized experience.
• Former Ginza Onodera Chef: The presence of Chef Marco Lin, an alum from the Michelin-starred Ginza Onodera, provides an implicit "offer" of high-caliber sushi artistry at a price point that some reviewers feel is comparable to restaurants in the "$400 club," suggesting strong value for the quality.
• Intimate and Attentive Service: The highly praised, attentive, and friendly service from both Chef Lin and staff like "Tony" is a significant part of the value proposition, ensuring a comfortable and engaging dining experience rare in many high-end establishments.

For specific inquiries about private events, catering, or any unique requests that might influence pricing, it is best to contact Sushi Mumi directly via phone. Reservations are highly recommended and typically made through platforms like Resy, where you can also note any special occasions.

To secure your extraordinary omakase experience at Sushi Mumi, here's how to connect:

• Address: 130 St Marks Pl, New York, NY 10009, USA
• Phone: (917) 808-3888

Reservations are essential and can typically be made via online platforms like Resy. Operating hours are geared towards dinner service, given the omakase format. It's always best to check their Resy page or call ahead for the most current availability and seating times.

Sushi Mumi is an exceptional choice for New York locals seeking a truly elevated and intimate sushi experience, especially for those who appreciate the nuanced art of omakase. In a city saturated with dining options, Sushi Mumi distinguishes itself through its unwavering commitment to quality, a highly personal approach, and the masterful hands of Chef Marco Lin. For discerning New Yorkers, this means access to pristine, high-quality fish and expertly crafted dishes that rival (and often surpass, according to reviews) those found at significantly higher price points.

The intimate setting on St. Marks Place provides a welcome respite from the city's hustle, creating a focused and engaging environment where interaction with Chef Lin and his dedicated team becomes a highlight of the evening. This personal connection, combined with explanations of each dish, turns a meal into a memorable culinary education. The unhurried pace and thoughtful recognition of special occasions, like the delightful birthday surprise, resonate deeply with locals looking for more than just food – they seek an experience that celebrates moments.

Moreover, for sushi connoisseurs familiar with the legacy of Michelin-starred establishments like Ginza Onodera, the fact that Chef Lin is an alum offers an immediate seal of approval, ensuring an authentic and refined Edomae-style omakase. Sushi Mumi is ideal for New Yorkers who are willing to invest in an unforgettable dining experience, perfect for celebrating milestones, impressing out-of-town guests, or simply indulging in the absolute best of what New York's sushi scene has to offer. It's a place where quality, artistry, and genuine hospitality converge to create a truly unparalleled evening.

Sushi Mumi

130 St Marks Pl, New York, NY 10009, USA