5 Best Omakase Restaurants in Ottawa We’d Recommend Without Hesitation
I didn’t plan to become “that person” who lets a chef decide their entire meal.
It started on a random winter night—freezing, hungry, and too tired to choose from a menu. I walked into a small sushi spot, sat at the counter, and the chef asked if I wanted to try omakase.
I said yes—thinking it’d just be a simple way to order.
Piece after piece came out—no explanations, no choices, just quiet confidence. Somewhere between the first bite and last, I realized I wasn’t just eating—I was experiencing something I didn’t even know Ottawa had.
After that, I kept chasing it. Different counters, different chefs, same questions every time: “Okay, but is this one better?” That’s how this list came to fruition.
1. Shinka Sushi Bar
– Media credit: shinkasushibar
Location: 2900 Sheffield Rd
Website: http://www.shinkasushibar.com/
Contact: +16135658998
Operating hours:
- Sunday to Thursday: 11:30am – 9pm
- Friday and Saturday: 11:30am – 10pm
Everything about Shinka Sushi Bar impresses me: the setting, beautifully made sushi, and an intimate vibe that’s perfect for special occasions.
They specialize in omakase, so plates arrive one at a time. It’s ideal if you want to relax and enjoy whatever the chef serves without overthinking your choices.
My favorite—which is also one of their most talked-about highlights—is the Chef’s Nigiri Selection. Expect premium bites like fatty tuna topped by caviar, lightly torched salmon layered in ikura, and A5 wagyu paired alongside uni.
Each piece is carefully assembled and finished with house-made sauces or delicate garnishes that enhance the flavors.
It’s definitely more expensive than your typical sushi spot in Ottawa, but many diners say the quality and artistry make it well worth the splurge.
Pro tip:
Book your reservation ahead of time—advance notice is usually required, and walk-ins aren’t recommended.
2. Kuidaore
– Media credit: kuidaore.izakaya
Location: 420 Preston St
Website: http://kuidaore.ca/
Contact: +16134227537
Operating hours:
- Monday and Tuesday: Closed
- Wednesday to Sunday: 12pm – 9:30pm
There are a bunch of Japanese restaurants in the city, but Kuidaore does things a bit differently. Instead of the usual sushi-style omakase, they focus on Osaka-style street food, making the whole experience feel more fun and less formal.
Their Black Miso Pork Belly Ramen is probably one of the best things I’ve had here. The broth has a deep, garlicky taste, and the pork belly is super tender with a slight crisp on the edges.
The Takoyaki was also really good—each piece has a light crunch and a creamy center, packed with octopus. A drizzle of sauce plus mayo brings everything together, and the dancing bonito flakes make it even better.
Pro tip:
Seating is limited, so it can get pretty busy. Expect slower service during peak hours.
3. Jfuse
– Media credit: jfuse.ottawa
Location: 175 Main St unit 4
Website: http://www.jfuseottawa.com/
Contact: +16132390112
Operating hours:
- Monday: Closed
- Tuesday to Thursday: 5pm – 9pm
- Friday: 5pm – 10pm
- Saturday: 10:30am – 2:30pm; 5pm – 10pm
- Sunday: 10:30am – 2:30pm; 5pm – 10pm
This is seriously one of the best omakase spots in Ottawa. Jfuse does Japanese fusion right, with creative aburi and nigiri that taste as good as they look.
When I visited, I started with the Lobster Tempura—it’s lightly battered, super crispy on the outside, and juicy on the inside. Plus, the dipping sauce really makes it pop!
Then I tried the Nigiri Moriwase. The chef picks seasonal fish, and you’ll get premium cuts like scallop, salmon, and tuna.
Prices are on the higher side, but given the quality and experience, it’s worth every penny (trust me!).
Pro tip:
Go with a small group or for a date night. The place is cozy, so big parties aren’t the best idea.
4. TOMO
– Media credit: tomo.restaurant
Location: 109 Clarence St
Website: http://tomorestaurant.ca/
Contact: +16132410990
Operating hours:
- Monday: Closed
- Tuesday to Thursday and Sunday: 5pm – 11pm
- Friday and Saturday: 5pm – 2am
It’s worth coming to TOMO just for their nigiri alone. I’ll admit, it’s on the pricier side, but that’s what you get when everything is fresh and meticulously prepared!
The Nigiri Assortments are delicate with the perfect balance of flavors—salmon, tuna, and scallop are all highlights. Plus, they don’t skimp on quality or portion, which is always a win in my book!
The Chicken Sushi or the Sockeye Salmon Crudo are to die for. Both dishes show off the chef’s creativity.
And make sure to save room for their house desserts, like the ice cream—it’s a sweet way to end the experience.
Pro tip:
Capacity is tight, especially on weekends or special occasions, so reservations are strongly recommended.
5. Kiko Sushi Bar
– Media credit: kikosushi
Location: 349 Preston St
Website: http://www.kikosushibar.com/
Contact: +16136953143
Operating hours:
- Monday: Closed
- Tuesday, Wednesday, Saturday, and Sunday: 4:30pm – 9:30pm
- Thursday and Friday: 11:30am – 2pm; 4:30pm – 9:30pm
Kiko Sushi Bar has a Chef Nigiri Selection (Moriwase) where you get a seasonal mix of nigiri chosen by the chef—salmon, tuna, scallop, and sometimes uni. Each piece is fresh and melts in your mouth.
I was hesitant to try their Specialty House Rolls at first, but wow—they’re something else! Creative combinations like spicy tuna, eel, or tempura shrimp are all beautifully presented. I couldn’t stop taking pictures before eating!
It’s also easier on the wallet than some of Ottawa’s fancy and expensive omakase spots, which makes it a great value.
Pro tip:
Sit at the sushi bar to see the chef in action and get the full omakase experience.