Last Updated on July 23, 2026 by Erin Donahue

Unpopular opinion: the best omakase in New York isn’t in Manhattan. It’s in Brooklyn. I’ve eaten my way through a lot of Michelin-starred restaurants in this city (read Atera, Jungsik, ATOMIX), and Shota Omakase is probably my new favorite.

It’s a one-Michelin-star sushi counter in the heart of Williamsburg, named after a comic book that inspired owner and head chef Cheng Lin to open his own restaurant.

What Is Edomae Style Omakase?

If you’re new to omakase dining, omakase translates to “I leave it up to you.” The experience of the menu is the chef decides every course. Shota Omakase serves traditional Edomae-style sushi, which I prefer because the technique focuses on the quality of the fish.

Shota Gentei Omakase Dining Experience

I went for the Gentei Omakase, a 19-course experience led by Chef Cheng himself, featuring rare seasonal fish and premium cuts. There were five appetizers, and the last appetizer before the nigiri might be the best bite I’ve had at any Michelin restaurant in New York. The dish was Osetra caviar and cod, served atop Inochi no Ichi, the number-one-ranked rice in Japan, grown in Gifu Prefecture. The cod arrived perfectly cooked, balanced in flavor and texture, and melted in your mouth. I wish the pieces were bigger!

From there, the nigiri started strong with medium fatty toro, followed by Oro King salmon and the rest. The chef places each piece directly in front of you, and you pick it up to eat the second it touches the plate. The authentic way to eat omakase is with your hands, not chopsticks. The chef grinds the wasabi fresh in front of you. Real wasabi, not the fake paste cheaper sushi restaurants use.

Dessert was a traditional sweet tamago, paired with Japanese crown melon, a luxury fruit grown in Shizuoka Prefecture under a strict one tree, one fruit method. Apparently, farmers hand-water, massage, and test each melon for sugar content until it reaches a sweetness you won’t find at a regular grocery store. Maybe my palate isn’t sophisticated enough, but I couldn’t tell the difference. Fruit is fruit.

It didn’t stop there. I was celebrating a special occasion that night, and Chef Cheng sent out an extra matcha dessert with sake kasu, then dolloped a generous spoonful of caviar on top. This is why you should always check off a special occasion on your reservations!

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Shota Omakase FAQ

What is the price of Shota Omakase?
Shota Omakase has two menus. The Premium Omakase is $195 for 18 courses, not including tax or drinks. The Gentei Omakase is a 19-course menu featuring rare seasonal fish and premium cuts at $225.

How do I get a reservation at Shota Omakase?
Reservations are booked through their website and fill quickly. The Gentei counter in particular requires advance planning. Check back regularly for cancellations if your preferred date is unavailable.

Does Shota Omakase have a Michelin star?
Yes. Shota earned its first Michelin star within a year of opening in 2023.

What style of sushi does Shota serve?
Traditional Edomae-style sushi, which features distinct preparation and aging techniques designed to preserve the seafood and enhance its umami.

Should I eat omakase nigiri with my hands or chopsticks?
With your hands. This is the traditional and more authentic way to eat nigiri.