Sushi Confidential: Omakase

Have you ever heard the term “omakase?”

When you go into at least any decent sushiya (sushi joint, translated per Eric) they will have an omakase option. If they only have an omakase option, then you are most likely in a great place. Whatever you’re doing in your life, keep up the good work. And put your fucking phone away.

The word omakase in this setting is essentially saying “chef’s choice.” Depends on the joint but it will usually just mean a certain number of nigiri or sashimi, and you get whatever the chef wants to give you.

Omakase loosely translates to “in trust.” I’m trusting you to make whatever you see fit.

Usually it’s the nicest stuff because if I’m a chef, why would I bust out the usual suspects to showcase what I have?

Be apprehensive about busters who call themselves a chef. I actively avoid referring to myself as one. I usually say that I make sushi, or if I don’t care…”I work at a bar.”

Theres no true blueprint here. Reality is that most kitchens don’t run on the traditional French hierarchy.

Personally, here is my list:
1. Significant knowledge of both the cuisine you create as well as extensive knowledge of ingredient. Vague concept but you know when they fakin the funk.
2. Control of the dish if it goes out or not. Are you the person that will send a dish back to be redone because something isn’t right?
3. Do you decide what goes on the menu?
4. Do you source and order ingredient for that menu?
5. Do you instruct others?
6. High skill, obviously.
7. A chef calls you a chef.

Just my humble meaningless opinion. Work 10 years at Cheesecake Factory and don’t know shit but you can robotically follow a formula.

Shades of grey, but in my opinion i absolutely do not qualify. The ironic exception is that the chef who’s name is on the front door, has called me a chef. Did he mean it this way? Probably not. But who the hell am I to tell him he’s wrong?

I suppose, moral of the story is that unless you’re walking into some faceless chain, know that someone made this place and this menu. And for no other reason than the fact that you came there, give them your trust, order the omakase.

Until next time,
E