Latest news with #omakase
New York Times
15-07-2025
- Entertainment
- New York Times
Omakase Has Gotten Out of Hand. Mori Nozomi Is the Sublime Answer.
Start with chawanmushi, trembling under a bitter ginkgo nut. Next, the supple muscle of snapper, luminous with yuzu. When the fish is gone, a server recalibrates the sauce that's left with dashi, so you can drink it. (Yes, you want to drink it.) The chef Nozomi Mori is at work behind the counter: She etches her blade into the milky top of a scallop so it yields its sweetness more immediately. She carves sheer petals out of swordtip squid — changing the way you'll receive it — before pressing it into an airy cushion of rice. At her eight-seat sushi counter Mori Nozomi, Ms. Mori is serving a 26-course omakase with precise control of texture and seasoning, cooking with a deep intelligence for the mechanics of tongue and teeth, for the sensual machinery of the mouth. (How many chefs forget about this? Let's be honest, how many chefs never understood it to begin with?) Los Angeles is the sprawling sushi capital of the country, bending and breaking so many of the rules established for it in Japan, even as it replicates others. Before the chef Niki Nakayama was known for her Michelin-starred kaiseki restaurant n/naka, she had a sushi bar on Melrose Avenue where Japanese men would sometimes walk in, see who was cooking — a woman? — and turn right around. Excluding women from sushi might be seen as part of the tradition of sushi. It's why, a quarter of a century later, Ms. Mori still draws attention for her all-women team. But the thrill of Mori Nozomi is in Ms. Mori's distinct style as a chef — the way she annotates the singular focus of the omakase with some of the more complex, seasonal digressions of kaiseki and rituals of the Japanese tea ceremony. Want all of The Times? Subscribe.
South China Morning Post
12-07-2025
- Entertainment
- South China Morning Post
This week in PostMag: racing at Le Mans, a healthy obsession with cheese and a drop of Bordeaux
A cheese omakase shouldn't work. Or at least that's what I told myself as I sat down in the polished back room of Roucou, Jeremy Evrard's exuberant new restaurant-slash-love-letter to dairy. Course after course of … cheese? Surely that's a recipe for indigestion, even for the lactose tolerant. But then came a thick smear of Brillat-Savarin wrapped in nori and topped with caviar. Next, a tower of Parmigiano Reggiano crisps with herring and a whisper of lemon. Then a savoury shellfish bisque with uni and halibut, showered in Beaufort d'Alpage. And yes – this one surprised me most of all – creamy Camembert sidled in next to a slab of toro seared with a charcoal stick. It was delicious. I might have walked in a cynic, but I left a convert. So I was happy to read more about what kick-started Evrard's passion in My Obsession, our new column about collectors and their beloved ephemera. It turns out his love of cheese began, like many great passions, with something deeply uncool: a childhood hoard of Laughing Cow labels. He has more than a thousand now, many tucked into drawers at home, some finding new life at Roucou as hand-scrawled menus or little gifts for diners to take away. Like his restaurant, it's charming and a little eccentric – which is to say, completely delightful. In our cover feature, former racer Matthew Marsh takes us trackside at the 24 Hours of Le Mans, where two Hong Kong drivers joined one of motorsport's most gruelling races. There's no glamorising here – just the brutal choreography of a race that starts in daylight and finishes – if you're lucky – a day and 5,200km later. Marsh captures the madness and muscle of it all, from the Tricolore flag drop to crowds buzzing well past midnight. Back in Hong Kong, Fionnuala McHugh speaks with Rocco Yim Sen-kee, the architect responsible for some of the city's most iconic spaces, about his new monograph, Looking to Hong Kong. Yim is softly spoken, allergic to hype and utterly unmistakable in a portfolio packed with malls, cultural landmarks and government buildings. Whether you know it or not, you've walked through his ideas. In the classroom, writer and lecturer Karen Cheung is reckoning with a very modern crisis: grading student essays and slowly realising some were written by bots. Her piece is sharp, confessional and just unnerving enough. She doesn't panic – not really – but she does ask hard questions about authorship, originality and what's at stake when we let the machines do the messy, human work of thinking for us in this new era of the em dash. If that's too unsettling, let us take you to Bordeaux, where John Brunton finds natural wine, medieval chapels and the odd Ayurvedic massage in between tastings. Chickens wander between the vines and clay amphorae stand where oak barrels once ruled. It's not your grandfather's Bordeaux – and that's the point.
Forbes
09-07-2025
- Entertainment
- Forbes
Things To Do In Vancouver: Where To Eat, Stay, And Play 2025
All smiles as we Eat, Stay, and Play in Vancouver, BC getty Let me come clean—I'm not a hockey fan. I painfully discovered that truth as a kid when I tried to fit in with friends obsessed with the sport. One day, one of them caught me off guard by asking, 'What does the 'A' on a jersey stand for?' In true clueless fashion, I confidently replied, 'The first letter of the alphabet.' (Yes, feel free to cringe.) Fast forward a few decades, and while hockey still isn't my forte, I've learned a thing or two—like what 'hat trick' means. For the uninitiated, it's when a player scores three goals in a single game. Why does this matter to me? Because when I visit a new city, I aim to accomplish my own version of a hat trick: mastering the three essentials of hospitality—where to eat, where to stay, and where to play. In this guide, I'm sharing my favorite Things to Do in Vancouver, to help you hit your own travel hat trick. P.S. I wanted to include a nod to the 'Gordie Howe Hat Trick' ( a goal, an assist, and a fight) , but it didn't quite fit. My apologies, Canada. Vancouver's culinary scene is a dream for food lovers. With global influences from Asia, Europe, and North America all coming together with the freshest Pacific ingredients, this city is a veritable paradise for your taste buds. Here are three standout picks where you'll score big on flavor: This Michelin-starred omakase experience is as much a performance as it is a meal. Each dish tells a story, showcasing the freshest seafood with stunning precision and artistry. A must for lovers of Japanese cuisine. Experience the perfect blend of fine dining and approachable cuisine at Vancouver's Michelin-starred St. Lawrence. St. Lawrence A cozy Québécois-inspired bistro where refined French techniques meet hearty Canadian comfort food. This Michelin-starred gem offers dishes full of warmth and nostalgia. Don't miss the pâté—it's as delightful as the ambiance. JOEY Bentall One For a laid-back yet polished dining experience, JOEY Bentall One delivers. From their renowned truffle fries to globally inspired mains, this downtown favorite is perfect for a casual yet satisfying meal. Second Goal: Where to STAY in Vancouver From luxurious escapes to practical stays, Vancouver's accommodations cater to every traveler. Whether you're treating yourself or traveling on a budget, these options deliver comfort and convenience: Hyatt Vancouver Downtown Alberni This luxury boutique hotel ( formerly the Shangri-La Vancouver ) is an oasis of calm in the heart of the city. Its Zen-like ambiance and impeccable hospitality make it a standout. With 15 floors of rooms, suites, and top-notch facilities, it's a stone's throw from art galleries, Michelin-starred restaurants, and Stanley Park. The property is my personal slice of paradise in Vancouver. Hilton Vancouver Downtown Take a dip in the pool before heading out for the night in Downtown Vancouver Hilton If you'd rather save your budget for experiences rather than accommodations, the Hilton Downtown is a smart choice. This 4-star hotel offers all the essentials while leaving room to splurge on better concert seats, fine dining, or a few extra drinks in Gastown. Plus, it's just a 10-minute walk from the city's best nightlife. Fairmont Hotels Vancouver's trio of downtown Fairmont properties (plus one near the airport) are iconic. Here's how to choose between them: Fairmont Hotel Vancouver Airport : Perfect for early flights, this 5-star hotel boasts soundproof rooms and Fairmont Gold perks without compromising on luxury. : Perfect for early flights, this 5-star hotel boasts soundproof rooms and Fairmont Gold perks without compromising on luxury. Fairmont Hotel Vancouver : A historic landmark recently renovated with modern touches. Centrally located and ideal for exploring downtown, it's home to my favorite lobby bar, Notch8. : A historic landmark recently renovated with modern touches. Centrally located and ideal for exploring downtown, it's home to my favorite lobby bar, Notch8. Fairmont Waterfront : Think laid-back luxury—a mix of understated elegance and comfort. It's modern and chic without being pretentious. : Think laid-back luxury—a mix of understated elegance and comfort. It's modern and chic without being pretentious. Fairmont Pacific Rim: Sleek, upscale, and trendy, this is the city's pinnacle of luxury. Its award-winning Botanist restaurant and cocktail program are worth every penny. Third Goal: Where to PLAY in Vancouver From exciting nightlife to unique local experiences, Vancouver has no shortage of entertainment options. Here are my top picks: Copperpenny Distilling Co. Head over to North Vancouver to have a cocktail with owners Jennifer Kom-Tong & Jan Stenc Copperpenny North Vancouver's Copperpenny Distilling Co. is an award-winning BC craft distillery creating exceptional grain-to-glass spirits. Pro tip: Try their 'Make Your Own Gin' experience for a fun, hands-on afternoon. Karma Lounge Located inside the Paradox Hotel, Karma Lounge is a sleek spot for craft cocktails. Whether you're catching the game or enjoying an intimate evening, it's the go-to for Vancouver's social elite. Open into the late hours, it's the perfect place to cap off your night. The Keefer Bar This Chinatown hotspot is known for its apothecary-themed cocktails infused with ingredients like salted pomelo, tofu coconut milk, and star anise bitters. The Keefer Bar's seasonal menu is always changing, but my all-time favorite is the Antidote—a perfect mix of Canadian whisky, yuzu sake, and lemon. Power Play: Where to Spend Extra Time If you find yourself with some downtime during your journey, consider trying out these activities to make the most of your experience and add a little extra excitement to your trip: Harbour Air Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada September 26, 2024: Harbour Air seaplane tours located at Canada Place in Vancouver, BC, Canada. getty Take a 30-minute seaplane tour over Vancouver for under $200. It's a breathtaking way to see the city from above—and the pilots often share their favorite local spots. Harbour Air also offers flights around Greater Victoria, perfect for a day trip. Secwépemc Museum and Heritage Park Located in Kamloops, this sacred space celebrates the cultural legacy of the Secwépemc people. Through dynamic exhibits, art, and a tribute garden, visitors can connect with the rich history and spirituality of the region. Each visit supports the revitalization of Secwépemc heritage. Vancouver International Wine Festival One of North America's most diverse wine events, this festival features over 100 wineries from 15+ countries. Mostly winemakers and vintners, not distributors, pour the wines, making it a unique experience. It's also the best showcase of Canadian wine I've experienced—especially the incredible offerings from Vancouver Island and Cowichan Valley. Held annually in late February or March, the event supports the Bard on the Beach Theatre Society. People attend a tasting event of the 43rd International Wine Festival at Vancouver Convention Centre in Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada, May 19, 2022. As one of the largest wine festivals in the world, the event this year attracted 101 wineries from 14 countries. (Photo by Liang Sen/Xinhua via Getty Images) Xinhua News Agency via Getty Images If you're dining on Michelin-starred cuisine, staying in world-class luxury properties, or discovering Vancouver's inviting culture, this guide of 'things to do in Vancouver' can help you achieve the ultimate travel hat trick. Get ready to eat, stay, and play your way through one of Canada's most exciting cities!
Forbes
18-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Forbes
The Longest Sushi Bar In New York Is Now Open In Flatiron
The stunning sushi bar is the longest in NYC. You can't swing a sashimi knife in Manhattan without hitting an omakase counter these days. But Aqua Kyoto, the Japanese dining room inside Aqua New York in Flatiron, isn't just adding to the pile. It's carving out something bigger—literally. They've opened what's now the city's longest sushi bar. It stretches a staggering 77 feet. Yes, feet. This thing could double as a runway during Fashion Week. The sushi bar anchors the Kyoto side of Aqua New York's dual-restaurant setup, which also includes Aqua Roma (Italian, naturally). The bar feels theatrical—expansive without being cold—and, surprisingly, doesn't overpower the food or the experience. You'd expect something this size to turn into a gimmick. It doesn't. At the 22-seat counter, Chef Mitsuru Hara serves up a ten-course omakase that's equal parts sharp technique and unfussy pleasure. It's $158 for the full ride, and nothing feels inflated—either in portion size or pretension. Things kick off with a spinach salad dressed tableside with toasted sesame. It's not showy, but it lands. Then comes a Tuna and Salmon Tartar with a hit of caviar, a bit of yuzu kosho, and some wonderfully crispy lotus root chips. It's precise, not precious. Sushi purists and skeptics alike will find something to like here. The Scallop & Caviar Crystal Sushi is a standout—not just for the glimmering jelly on top (which, yes, sounds ridiculous) but for the subtle flavor it brings. Then there's the Spicy Tuna Maki. You've had a thousand of them, sure. This one's better—clean, punchy, nothing dripping in sauce or buried under fried onions. The Prawn Tempura is textbook in the way you want it to be: crisp, greaseless, salted with matcha, and dipped in a ten-tsuyu that's warming but restrained. The Miso Black Cod? You've had it before, yes, but here it feels grown-up—less sweet, more elegant, with just enough char to remind you it's been tended to. And then there's dessert. "Forest Floor," it's called, and it sounds like a Pinterest board. But the execution is surprisingly restrained: Tonka bean panna cotta, chocolate brownie crumble, a matcha soil, and a tart raspberry sorbet that cuts through the sweetness like a sharp exit line. It's plated like something out of a Nordic tasting menu, but—mercifully—tastes like dessert. Optional sake pairings are available, and they're worth the extra cost. They're not overly explained or turned into a seminar, which is a blessing these days. Just well-matched pours that make sense with the food. But the bar—and the meal—are only part of what Aqua New York is offering. This is a dual-concept restaurant, after all, where Aqua Kyoto shares space with Aqua Roma, a modern Italian operation located just across the dining room. And here's where things get interesting: you can order from either side of the menu no matter where you sit. Sushi followed by osso buco? Absolutely. Uni with your burrata? Nobody will stop you. The Italian side, Aqua Roma, focuses on seasonal regional fare and features a strong wine program built around a newer generation of small-production Italian winemakers. The Japanese side leans into contemporary Kyoto-style cuisine with an emphasis on seasonality and clean flavors. It's not fusion. It's a culinary two-hander. And somehow, it all plays well together. It helps that the dining room is a spectacle. The sushi bar might be the longest, but the central oval cocktail bar—Aqua Spirit—makes a bid for the largest in the city. It's a vast, curving statement piece, and yet it doesn't make you feel like you've wandered into a casino. It just feels... generous.
Yahoo
16-06-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
Tobi Masa: New York's celebrated Masayoshi Takayama is bringing his three-star sushi to the Chancery Rosewood
One of the most influential figures in modern Japanese cuisine, Masayoshi 'Masa' Takayama, is to open a standalone restaurant in London for the first time. Tobi Masa will launch at the Chancery Rosewood hotel in September, where Masa will bring his famous sushi, snacks and small plates to the new Mayfair hotel. The Standard understands the restaurant will be a continuation of Masa's self-titled restaurant in New York, which, with encouragement from the legendary American chef Thomas Keller, he opened in 2004 and which has held three Michelin stars since 2009. Soon after opening in NYC, the New York Times said Masa 'changed the sushi game', introducing a new style of omakase to the city, combining fish from Japan with luxury ingredients such as white truffle, caviar, and foie gras. Wagyu beef is almost a staple, while the price of a meal starts at around $1,000 per head before drinks and service charge, according to US media. That same high-end concept is to be brought to London at Tobi (which loosely translates as 'to fly') Masa and the chef promised equal precision, minimalism, and fine ingredients as are used across the Atlantic. The menu at the upcoming restaurant will feature some of the dishes that helped define the original, including tuna tartare with caviar and Peking duck tacos, alongside new creations developed for London. 'I'm so proud to be partnering with a creative and innovative brand like Rosewood,' said Masa, who featured on an episode of Anthony Bourdain's Parts Unknown in 2016, showing the US chef around his native Japan. 'We are very excited to embark on this new adventure together, and especially in such a historic landmark building in the middle of Mayfair.' The move marks Masa's second foray into London. The chef is also behind Sushi by Masa, a more casual, less high-profile sushi experience at Harrods department store, though the Standard understands this contract is to finish in October and so the Rosewood will be his only UK operation. The much-anticipated hotel is located in the former US Embassy in Mayfair and Tobi Masa is expected to be one of many new restaurants at the site. One is another New York import, the celebrity-filled Italian-American restaurant Carbone (a favourite of Barack Obama) and which is also set to open in the autumn. Tobi Masa is to open at The Chancery Rosewood in September 2025 in line with the hotel. 30 Grosvenor Square W1K,
