As recommended by Jesse, co-owner of Sen restaurant in the Hamptons:

A Brother in Sushi

Kei Yoshino of Sushi Oku was with us at Sen for over 15 years. He trained under incredible chefs, worked his way up at Sen, and eventually became part of the family. He’s like a brother, our kids are the same age, and we support each other. But just like brothers, we also had our moments.

And one day, Kei left Sen to open up his own place. He’s now running Sushi Oku, a phenomenal spot in the Lower East Side of Manhattan.

The Omakase

I’ve been six or seven times already. It’s amazing. Kei serves a 17-course omakase for $165. One of the most approachable price points you’ll ever find for a sushi chef of his caliber.

He’s close friends with Nakasawa-san of Sushi Nakazawa in the West Village, another humbling chef.

Inside Tip 📌

If you’re looking for serious omakase in NYC without the usual price tag, this is the one. Book it before it blows up.

Contact

🌐 sushioku.com

About Jesse

This card is by Jesse Matsuoka, a Hamptons resident of over 25 years. Jesse is a sake sommelier, Tip Top Hospitality partner, and co-owner of Sen, a legendary Japanese restaurant in Sag Harbor. Jesse was born in Manhattan, grew up in Tokyo, Hawaii, and Sag Harbor, and is now married to a third-generation Montauker.

Lead-in Image

@sushiokunyc / Instagram