Hello dear
Shuko, located in New York City, offers an exquisite omakase dining experience that delights the senses. This intimate sushi bar specializes in high-quality, artfully prepared fish, like the standout spicy trout handroll and decadent toro with caviar. Each dish is served one at a time, ensuring that flavors are savored to their fullest. Guests rave about the fresh ingredients and attentive service, highlighting the unique beverage pairings and welcoming atmosphere. The chefs engage diners with personal touches, creating a memorable experience that transcends mere dining. With prices reflecting their premium offerings, Shuko is a must-visit for sushi aficionados.
About
Welcome to Shuko, a premier destination for sushi lovers located at 47 E 12th St, New York, NY 10003. This exquisite eatery specializes in omakase—a Japanese culinary tradition that puts trust in the chef's hands to curate a bespoke dining experience. The atmosphere is intimate, making it perfect for special occasions or simply indulging in a unique culinary adventure.
At Shuko, you'll find an impressive selection of dishes that ignite your palate, such as the Spicy Trout Handroll ($28.00), Kama Toro, a charcoal-seared tuna belly ($28.00), and an indulgent Caviar Handroll priced at $120.00. Each dish showcases the freshness and quality that Shuko is renowned for. Patrons rave about the texture and flavor balance of the fish, with standout selections like Spanish Mackerel served with ginger root, and the coveted uni and toro that have garnered much praise.
Shuko isn't just about sushi; it's an experience. With a thoughtfully curated beverage pairing, including options beyond sake, guests are treated to a robust sip that perfectly complements their meal. One diner, Valerie Kritou, noted the delight in the dining experience, despite minor hiccups like a chilly private room. Yet, her words resonate: "It was definitely worth it." This sentiment is echoed throughout rave reviews highlighting the attentive service and the chefs' expertise.
The unique flow of an omakase meal means each piece of sushi is served individually, allowing you to savor every bite before moving to the next. Regulars like Vacation Joe emphasize how this intimate dining style preserves the integrity of flavors, while creating a warm, engaging atmosphere thanks to friendly and knowledgeable staff members.
Shuko goes beyond just serving food; it creates memories. For instance, Michael Tagaris shared a heartwarming experience celebrating his sister's birthday, where the staff made a special effort to enhance their festivities with a handwritten note. These thoughtful touches are what separate Shuko from the ordinary and carve its niche in the vibrant NYC food scene.
So whether you're a sushi aficionado or a curious newcomer, Shuko promises not only a meal but a culinary journey. This establishment is a testament to the artistry of sushi making and an invitation to enjoy the finest seafood New York has to offer. Consider making Shuko a part of your dining itinerary—you won't regret it.
“ On the pricier side but it was definitely worth it. Everything was delicious and fresh. We dined in the private room which is at basement level and unfortunately the heater wasn't working so it was a little cold but, despite that, I still enjoyed my experience and would come back! Also, 2 people I was with got the beverage pairing (it's not just sake) and they were very pleasantly surprised with the amount they got for the price. The omakase course ended with some very delicious ice cream and I couldn't resist asking for a second serving of it (which they gave to me on the house!!). Overall I'd recommend it if you are looking for a high quality and unique omakase experience. ”
“ Went back in Dec 2021 and eating here was a fantastic experience! The texture of the fish was amazing but I had a stuffy nose that day so I couldn’t distinguish the flavours :(( There are a few chefs working at the bar and each chef takes care of a couple parties (for us it was a total of 6 people/3 couples). ”
“ Tremendous sushi making. The rice and fish are well balanced, the flavors were amazing. The selection for the omakase was varied and interesting. The grunt fish, barracuda, golden eyed snapper, Tasmanian trout, uni, and the wagyu were stand outs. The sake selection was great as well, with a wide selection. ”
“ An Omakase style sushi taste testing is a unique experience. You are leaving it up to the chef to pick out what you should eat. They serve one piece at a time. they wait for you to eat it and swallow it before they serve the next piece. so it doesn’t interfere with the taste of the last one. It comes with a hefty price but it’s something you have to try sometime in your life. The place had a nice atmosphere and it was small. the chef and the waitress was giving me some recommendations that taste amazing. They were awesome and extremely friendly. ”
“ 10 out of 10 experience. The Sushi Omakase Experience was amazing. Some of the best fish I have ever had. The Spanish Mackerel with Ginger Root was my favorite. There’s also a staff member walking around with a tub of ginger to give you refills, so if you are like me and love ginger this is your spot. Take your time to speak with the Chef. We discussed each piece and the reason for its selection. The staff was very welcoming and enjoyed my groups curiosity. This place also goes nuts with Uni and Toro. Just a really great time with my brother and sister! It was also my Sister’s Birthday which Shuko went above and beyond with a handwritten note signed by the whole staff! Great Restaurant. ”
“ This was my first omakase experience, and I admit that I was hesitant because of the price (228 pp). Shuko was worth every penny and then some. The entrance is unassuming with a speakeasy type of feel, and if you aren’t paying attention (especially at night) you could walk right past it. The interior is intimate and well decorated with the large bar counter as the centerpiece, where you can enjoy watching the chefs work. A lot of reviews complained about the music, but honestly I loved it. It was really cool to be able to vibe out to some R&B and hip hop in an upscale sushi restaurant of all places! For a nicely paced omakase and pleasant conversation with the chef, try a later weekday reservation (8-10 pm) as it’s not too busy. The staff was really friendly, and the service was attentive. Not only was our sushi chef extremely talented, he was also very kind and lovely to talk with. He even prepared an extra special item for us since we were celebrating my husband’s birthday. The selections were to die for. The standouts for me were the uni, the spicy toro with scallion and chili mayo, and the smoky seared Kama toro, which might just be the single best bite of food you ever have in your life. If you’re thinking about splurging on omakase in Manhattan, and DON’T mind an early 2000’s era Ludacris jam session, try Shuko. I promise you’ll leave fulfilled and elated (albeit a little bit more broke). ”
“ Shuko NYC is the epitome of upscale omakase dining. From the moment you step into the sleek, intimate space, the attention to detail is immediately apparent. The sushi bar itself is a work of art, with a beautifully smooth countertop that is sanded daily, creating a pristine stage for the culinary masterpieces that follow. The food is simply decadent—sourced from the best purveyors, ensuring each bite is of the highest quality. The fish was the most premium I’ve ever enjoyed, with the toro and sweet shrimp especially standing out, their flavors practically singing on the palate. Marin, the beverage director, curates wine and sake pairings that are nothing short of exquisite, each one thoughtfully chosen to elevate the meal in a way that felt seamless yet extraordinary. The toro uni caviar toast was a perfect add-on, a luxurious treat that I still dream about. And the barley ice cream? I’ll remember its subtle, nutty flavor for the rest of my days. Beyond the food, the warmth and gracious hospitality of the staff make the experience even more special. Every detail, from the meticulously prepared dishes to the genuinely welcoming service, reflects a commitment to excellence. Shuko is not just a meal—it’s an experience that stays with you long after you’ve left. An absolute must-visit for anyone who appreciates the art of omakase. ”
“ Came here for my birthday with friends. The best sushi I have ever had! Try omakase! Definitely worth the hype. Everything tasted fresh and looked amazing! I love everything from the ambiance, menu, and service. Everything I had was executed perfectly and tasted even better! Definitely worth a trip if you're thinking about it! Will be back indefinitely! ”