The Best Sushi and Omakase in NYC for Every Budget (2025 Guide)
- Tony
- Mar 1
- 3 min read
Updated: Mar 4
NYC really brings a whole new level to the Sushi world, offering fresh seafood at every price point. From hidden omakase counters to Michelin-starred experiences, there’s no shortage of incredible spots.
My personal favorite? Tuna. Be sure to try all cuts—from lean akami to rich, buttery toro and melt-in-your-mouth fatty chūtoro.
Best Affordable Sushi ($)
📍 Kazunori (Union Square, NoMad, West Village)
If you're looking for high-quality sushi at an affordable price, Kazunori is a fantastic choice. This hand roll bar offers a communal dining experience where you'll sit at a chef’s counter alongside other sushi lovers. Instead of a traditional menu, you’ll fill out an order card selecting from a variety of fresh fish, all wrapped in crispy seaweed.
Menu
What to Order
🍣 Go for the 4-roll set paired with a sashimi appetizer of your favorite fish for a well-rounded meal.
💡 Pro Tip: Hand rolls are best enjoyed fresh—eat them immediately before the seaweed softens for the perfect crunch.
🔥 How to Enjoy It
Take your first bite without soy sauce to fully appreciate the fish’s natural flavors.
No tipping required! Gratuity is already included, making this an even better deal.
💰 Why It’s Worth It: Kazunori delivers an authentic sushi experience at a fraction of the cost of traditional omakase, making it a go-to spot for sushi lovers on a budget.
Best Mid Price Omakase ($$) (BYOB)
Top Picks:
🍣 Shinzo Omakase (East Village)
🍶 Fuku Omakase (West Village)
🎌 Shoshin 68 (SoHo)
If you’re looking for a great balance of price and quality, this tier is the sweet spot for an intimate sushi experience in NYC. At these spots, you’ll enjoy a cozy chef’s counter setting with 8-10 guests, receiving around 12 pieces of premium nigiri (sushi consisting of fresh fish over rice).
💰 Price: Typically $70-$80 per person, sometimes including an appetizer or dessert. Look out for events where the chef will do a live tuna cutting!
BYOB? Bring the Right Sake 🍶
Since these spots allow BYOB, bringing the right bottle can elevate your experience. I recommend a sweet, cloudy sake called nigori. ✔️ Usually comes in a blue or pink bottle ✔️ Has a milky, unfiltered appearance from rice sediment ✔️ Slightly sweeter than regular sake—great for sipping between sushi courses
Pro Tip: Pick up a bottle of nigori sake or a light white wine before your reservation for the perfect pairing.
How to Eat Omakase the Right Way 🍣
✔️ Use your hands! Sushi is traditionally eaten by hand, so no need for chopsticks.
❌ Skip the soy sauce & wasabi. Each piece is already seasoned perfectly by the chef.
Want to Upgrade? Try These Flavor Bombs 💥
At the end of your meal, you can add premium upgrades for an extra $20+:
🔥 Wagyu – Buttery, melt-in-your-mouth beef
🐟 Toro – Fatty, rich tuna belly
🍄 Truffle-infused sushi – Earthy, umami-packed flavor
If you have room, grab one of these for an unforgettable finish to your omakase experience.
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