BEST OMAKASE EVER!!! I have been to the jersey city location several times but got to experience my birthday last night at the Chelsea location!! The sushi is always fresh, expertly crafted and flavorful. Cocktails are delicious and the music and overall atmosphere is so fun. Shoutout to Imax and all the staff and sushi chefs for the unbelievable hospitality and amazing vibes always. They really made it a special birthday experience and I will always recommend this place to anyone!!!

Really friendly staff, delicious omakase, fun vibe, would go back! They have an area where you can chill and have a drink after dinner as well, doesn’t feel rushed

Such a great experience! Amazing and fast service, very accommodating! We had the 17 course omakase with some drinks, and everything was delish! I highly recommend the Big Mac 😋

This experience surpassed every expectation we had. We went with a party of 9 for a bachelor trip. The staff were excellent. The food was by far the best sushi I've ever had. I would HIGHLY recommend going with their 17 Course Omakase option, you will not be disappointed. Thank you to our wonderful server and outstanding sushi chefs!

Brought my mother for her first omakase experience and we both had a great time! I’ve been to other SBB locations and have never left disappointed. Great food, drinks, and service!

As my first omakase, it was an amazing experience all thanks to the wonderful staff and chef! We were here on a special occasion which was brightened by both the service (shoutout to Imax!) and the food. The sushi was great; simple but fresh and delicious pieces. Would 100% recommend to anyone, and I’m looking forward to coming back!

I’ve been to a good amount of omakases around NY but this one was special. The employees are incredibly welcoming, gracious, and really just a fun time. The chef is knowledgeable and passionate. And the 17 course omakase was beyond delicious and just the right amount of food. 100/10 night out. Doesn’t get any better than this.

Very intimate sushi experience. Great staff and the fish was very good.

+6

From start to finish this was a superb experience. The ambiance was absolutely perfect. The intimate setting made it easy to fully immerse in the experience. The omakase was a masterclass in craftsmanship, creativity, and pure flavor. Each course was thoughtfully curated, balancing tradition with innovation in the most seamless way. The chef’s attention to detail was impeccable—every slice of fish was buttery, fresh, and perfectly aged, and the rice had that ideal warmth and seasoning that only true sushi masters achieve

Went here to celebrate my friend's birthday. They were welcoming from the start. We made a reservation, sat at a waiting table until they were able to seat us at the bar. We waited about 15 minutes. Imax and the bartender were very pleasant and welcoming from the moment we stepped through the door. We ordered drinks while waiting to be sat. The drinks were great on their own and paired well with the sushi! Chef Koichi was extremely sweet and considerate of all of our preferences during our tasting. The serving staff checked on us just enough to ensure we had water and drinks the entire time. They were very kind enough to allow us to bring a mini birthday cake in with us and enjoy it there as well! This was one of the most fun and welcoming dining experiences we've ever had. If you're looking for AMAZING food and INCREDIBLY friendly service, go to THIS location specifically!

Best sushi I have ever had! Beautiful place with lovely people. I was celebrating with my husband and we had so much fun :))

The best speakeasy behind a cool flower and espresso bar called BOSQE This roaring twenties themed sushi by Boū offers our standard menu for $60 and bougie upgrade (17 pieces and a handroll ) for $100 You will not be disappointed and if your significant other is mad at you get them some flowers on the way out

+6

Great Omakase experience! The staff is super friendly. The sushi is very well made and delicious.

+1

Had an amazing experience getting to see the chef prepare the sushi face to face. Each piece I tasted had me craving for more and excited for the next flavor! I'm thankful to the staff for their friendliness and recommendations of other spots to visit.

Alex and Imax deserve a raise! Went there for my girlfriends birthday and they were an absolute pleasure to be around! I can’t stress the emphasis on connecting with the customers and creating an environment in which the customer feels comfortable! Alex and Imax did that PERFECTLY! I can’t wait to go back and enjoy the BEST Sushi in NYC.

Sushi By Bou just open new Chelsea location at 232 7th Ave, New York, NY 10011, located in the luxurious Chelsea area of Manhattan, Sushi By Bou Chelsea is a modern sushi speakeasy, boasting an intimate 9-seat omakase experience, hidden away behind Bosqe, a bespoke Espresso Bar and Floral Boutique. This high-end experience is timed, with 30-minute and 60-minute options available. Guests are invited to arrive early or stay late, and enjoy one of our craft cocktails, imported sakes, or Japanese beers. Congratulations to New Chelsea location just open October 2022, open Wednesday to Sunday right now, already fully booked all the time, I’m lucky to have this unique and fun experience, the chef is super cute and funny, friendly service with luxe 1920’s themed decor. Omakase is creative and delicious, full with surprised tastes. The bartender Joe is so cool, he offered me with free sake shots, also have created cocktails craft beverages perfectly compliment omakase. Will definitely go again and share this information with friends.

+6

Ryan, Adrian, and Imax of sushi by bou are the best!!!! My partner and I had an incredible time. Each course was so well prepared and presented. The entire staff was friendly and fun! Thank you for a wonderful experience.

The secret entrance of this location is in the Bosqe flower shop. If you have a reservation then you can go in and talk to the people at the counter. The food and service here is great! The chef, El Chapo, is friendly and very good guy. I had the 17-course omakase for 1 hour and it was fantastic. You won't be disappointed with those. I really like the wagyuni, hotate, and the miso cod especially. If you have any dietary restriction then you need to tell the chef and they will accommodate you. Overall, a great night for me!

+3

Gotta love speakeasies! The experience is always a great one, but having to walk thru the flower/coffee shop to get to Bou is an extra layer of fun. The omakase was delicious, no surprise there. Nice space to lounge with a cocktail before or after the omakase. Staff is the best there is!

+4

Randomly found this place on a Tuesday night and had a wonderful experience. Staff was so friendly, food was DELICIOUS, and at a reasonable price. Only critique is that each piece was quite a bit smaller than other omakase I've had - but the flavor and freshness was exceptional.

Amazing one of a kind delicious omakase experience! It was soooooooo good!!!

+6

Accidentally posted from my husbands account but not mad at double posting bc that good lol ~ This place has a 4.8 rating for a reason! 10/10 experience, Imax the manager / host was incredible and made our experience 10X better! The mixologist did not miss on any of the drinks and had such incredible personality. I took my coworker for her bday & we truly had the best time. I also love it’s a speakeasy vibe & the quality of fish is on point. It’s hard to find high quality fatty tuna and theirs could compete with anyone. I love the JC location so it was awesome to find out the NY Chelsea one was on point with service & quality. Can’t wait to try more of their locations but I will definitely be back at this one!

Enter through the flower shop to this little sushi bar— we had the 12 course omakase and every bite was incredible. Fish was amazing, flavors were on point. Sake was delicious and the hospitality was top notch. Can’t wait to come back!

One of my favorite spots in the city. It’s not just dinner, but an experience! Each omakase course is better than the next, and the cocktails are delish too!

Great omakase. The Chelsea location’s drink specials were some of the best drinks I’ve had. John is great. Get the spicy passion and the green dame. I like that you can come early and sit down for a drink before your seating and do the same after your seating is over. We stayed about 2 hours and never felt rushed. Good for dates

AMAZING wouldn’t be enough to describe it from The sushi to the drinks to the service!! Made my friends bday so special! imax the maitre d and Koichu were beyond phenomenal if I could come everyday I would. We asked for a special cocktail with vodka and they made something amazing all my friends wanted it! Best experience can’t wait to come back

+1

Our experience from the moment we entered this location was outstanding!!! This hidden gem is behind a flower shop in Chelsea - felt like a members only club vibe!! My husband and I came in for a 12 course omakase and couldn’t help but upgrade to bad a bougie! Chef Jack was INCREDIBLE! I highly recommend adding the big mac at the end - the true icing on the cake 🤩

Sushi By Bou is an omakase experience I’ll return to time and time again—whether in NYC or beyond. The Chelsea location holds a special charm with its hidden speakeasy ambiance tucked behind a flower and coffee shop. The sushi is impeccably fresh and delicious, but what truly sets this place apart is the exceptional customer service. Imax consistently goes above and beyond, creating an unforgettable experience every visit. His warmth, kindness, and attentiveness make every guest feel like a VIP, whether it’s their first time or their hundredth. It’s truly what keeps me coming back. And a shout-out to each sushi chef — Alex, Li, etc. — who work so hard to ensure the best experience whenever you’re sitting at the bar.

Easily our favorite dining experience yet. The space itself was very speakeasy. The staff, sushi, and cocktails were out of this world. We had such a great time and loved every single bite. Ask for “Orby’s special”.

An AMAZING Omakase experience! No more gas station sushi for me. Lol. This was a phenomenal and delicious experience. Omakase slows the experience in order to appreciate every complex flavor. One of the best sushi experiences ever!

+5

Amazing experience! The attention, the whole staff was so attentive the minute i walked in (i had a 9pm reservation) came from queens to give this a try! I am so glad i came here. The wagyuni and japanese flounder with pesto were my favorite, the cosmo made by tate was spot on, highly recommend 10/10

+2

I went here for their signature omakase course and it was such a fun time! The restaurant itself was a speakeasy vibe which was a surprise, you had to go into a cafe first and an inconspicuous door in the back led to the restaurant. The space was pretty quaint with 8-10 bar stools at the sushi bar counter, as well as 4-6 two seater tables, and a normal bar with a counter as well. The decor and vibe was really intimate and cute, and the servers were so welcoming! We got sat and they immediately took our drink order. They were also very attentive at cleaning up and making sure we had everything we needed. BUT the highlight of the night was definitely our sushi chef, Jack! He was so nice and personable, and chatted with us all night, making sure to go through the omakase course at the pace we were eating and drinking. He was extremely knowledgeable about all the flavors being used and told us how they make all the sauces and toppings in house. He even was generous enough to give us an extra piece of sushi which was so nice! Though I have to admit I’ve had fresher sashimi for a couple of the nigiris, everything was still very good and well prepared 🫶🏻 At the end of the meal one of the server brought us and Jack sake shots, which was a nice touch. The servers had friendly banter and were personable but still professional. Overall it was such a fun experience and I would definitely go again and recommend it to a friend! Especially for the price, very worth it 😊

This place has a 4.8 rating for a reason! 10/10 experience, Imax the manager / host was incredible and made our experience 10X better! The mixologist did not miss on any of the drinks and had such incredible personality. I took my coworker for her bday & we truly had the best time. I also love it’s a speakeasy vibe & the quality of fish is on point. It’s hard to find high quality fatty tuna and theirs could compete with anyone. I love the JC location so it was awesome to find out the NY Chelsea one was on point with service & quality. Can’t wait to try more of their locations but I will definitely be back at this one!

I wish I had taken more pictures but I was having such a nice time I completely forgot. The vibe is perfect - intimate but upbeat with great friendly service and good music. The food and drinks were phenomenal, I'd be hard pressed to say what was my favorite because there was nothing I didn't like. Will definitely be back and will try out the other locations.

Fantastic omakase experience! We’ve been to the time square location before and the atmosphere at this location was better for larger groups because it was less cramped. It was basically a speakeasy experience where you enter through the coffee shop. The sushi was delicious and the chefs are super friendly and talented. For the price of $60, you get 12 pieces which can’t be beat around nyc. When we went for labor day, we also got an extra piece as part of the holiday special. Last tip, highly recommend booking through the website or just visiting the website because there are promo codes to apply for free drinks. We look forward to visiting other sushi by bou locations around the city!

The best dinner experience! So much fun and the food was so good! You walk through a flower shop to get to the restaurant! They had a special spicy passionfruit cocktail and it was insane! They even let me torch my sushi as it was my birthday. I didnt realise but they have other locations which we will defo be trying out.

+6

Loved my experience at Sushi by Bou ❤️ The Omakase pieces were extremely fresh and delicious. Staff were delightful and attentive.

+3

We celebrated my friend’s birthday here, the staff is definitely 10/10, very cool Chef who has been making sushi for 20+ years, IMAX who is the coolest bartender and made such a beautiful unicorn drink for us, and birthday Mochi on the house. Also shout out to the beautiful hostess Beatrice and Ray who made the whole dining experience super special. ❤️❤️❤️ Would definitely come back and celebrate special memories with my friends here.

Overall we were very pleased with the experience. For an affordable omokase sushi lineup, the chef’s selections & quality were very good! The music was a bit too loud in my opinion though. But other than that the staff was very friendly and everyone was incredibly attentive. I would definitely recommend checking it out by yourself or with a date. Also - Get there on time, so you can enjoy your experience and be fair to the other guests! This is a fantastic dining experience, but remember it is timed for a reason :)

I am not a big sushi fan, so I was looking forward to trying this place. When I arrived I parked on the street nearby. I walked into a speakeasy setting. The restaurant was gorgeous and small. I sat in the sushi making area, and they gave me different sushi, and they were delicious, most of them! Alex made the sushi and he was great! I then had some great cocktails! I definitely enjoyed it!

+6

We reserved the Chelsea location for my dad's birthday and had the BEST time. Loved the speakeasy vibe and atmosphere, and our entire group raved about the food. Majority of the group had not tried omakase before so it was a very special experience. Special shoutout to Imax, Adrian, Kin, and Koichi, along with Lindsey who helped us pin down the event details. Definitely recommend!!

Sushi by bou is such a luxurious unique speakeasy experience. Sushi by Bou offers a traditional Japanese omakase experience, where the chef selects the finest seasonal ingredients and guides you through a timed tasting. The speakeasy offers a signature 12-piece omakase and an upgraded 17-course omakase, using the finest quality fish and traditional edomae techniques. Our chef was so nice and knowledgeable about every dish he served. The ambiance gives off chic 1920s vibes with elegant accents of gold. Anyone who wants to get a 60min VIP experience that includes a 12 courses dinner and intimate vibe for only $50 can get it by DMing VIP to @soushibybou_

+6

Brian is an amazing sushi chef! This experience was top notch - definitely suggest for a date night / intimate experience with friends or family.

Such a cool hidden gem! Sushi by Bou in Chelsea is the perfect mix of fun and elegant — tucked inside Bosque Flowers & Coffee, it feels super intimate and special. The omakase experience is amazing — fresh, perfectly seasoned sushi with each piece better than the last. The chefs make it interactive and relaxed, and the drinks pair beautifully with the meal. It’s a short, unforgettable experience that feels like a secret you want to share (but also kind of keep to yourself). 🍣🌸✨

We'd been to another location before but recently visited the Chelsea one and had a great time. You enter from a secret door and inside the counter seats 9 people. There are two choices of menu, we went for the larger one. The chef was really friendly and food was delicious!

+6

We had THE MOST INCREDIBLE experience last night at Sushi by Bou. First of all, the vibe is everything you want from NYC. The hidden entrance, the private intimate feel, the attentive service making you feel VIP, and of course the sushi which was out of this world. We were celebrating so we went for the 17 course option, and each bite was exceptional. It's more than just a delicious dinner out, it's a whole experience from start to finish, and I can't recommend this place enough. 10 out of 10. RUN!

The service was excellent!! The food was amazing too though the salmon roe one was a bit too salty.

We went here for the Omakase. It has a speakeasy vibe hidden behind a Cafe storefront. Fair warning - They have time slots that they stick to. They start serving on time even if you’re not there. The menu was amazing, the food was great and the service and setting made it as a personalized/intimate experience! We were able to get alternatives accordingly to dietary restrictions and preference. My boyfriend is allergic to shellfish and our chef kept that in mind and gave him tuna/salmon alternatives. We really liked the Miso Cool and in the end when they asked if we’d Ike to repeat an order - we weren’t allowed to order that as apparently it took longer to prepare which was a bummer. Overall great food, ambience and experience. Would definitely recommend it to friends!

Sushi by Bou is AMAZING!!! I took my mom for her first omakase experience at 76 years old, and she absolutely LOVED IT!!! I’ve been to several omakase spots in NYC but this one was really awesome. The chef had really fun and positive energy and the staff was very friendly and attentive. The drinks were delicious (my mom doesn’t drink at her age but she enjoyed the sparkling water lol) and the most important part, the omakase was INCREDIBLE! The flavor profiles for each piece were so accurate and distinct, and you leave the place feeling like you at a healthy amount without feeling the typical “I’m stuffed” sluggish feeling afterwards, which is our typical association for feeling “full” in America when in reality, we’re all just accustomed to overeating with every meal we have. The food at Sushi By Bou was so refreshing. This was honestly my favorite omakase experience that I’ve had so far. Thanks guys!

The praise heaped on this place doesn't seem excessive after dining here. The dishes I've tried show good taste. This shows what professional guest attention looks like. Abundant servings offered at reasonable prices. Sushi by Bou- Chelsea NYC @ Bosque Flowers & Coffee provides remarkable quality.

The service from start to finish was exceptional. All staff were so knowledgeable and accommodating. Every detail was thought out. The sushi menu was so delicious. Every piece was so well balanced with tons of flavor. I was pleasantly surprised how much I liked items I wasn't expecting to. And to top it all off, the decor is just stunning. I really loved this place and can't wait to go back!

An unforgettable dining experience awaits at this hidden gem of an omakase speakeasy nestled within a flower/coffee shop. Our family dinner here was nothing short of magical. My 9-year-old son was thrilled with his non-alcoholic cocktail, which was both delicious and refreshing. The sushi, served piece by piece as part of the $100 omakase, was impeccably fresh and expertly crafted, leaving us in awe with each bite. What truly set this experience apart was the intimate setting - with just our family in attendance during our time slot, it felt as though we had a personal sushi chef catering exclusively to us. The warmth and friendliness of the staff added to the welcoming atmosphere, making it a truly memorable evening for our family. Highly recommend for a unique and delightful dining experience!

We had Alex as our sushi chef. He was really fun and attentive to our needs. All of the fish was fresh and the flavors were great. Great sauces and salts like yuzu salt, truffle salt, plum salt etc I loved that they used just the right amount of rice and sushi vinegar and it was just the right moistness and texture. I would definitely recommend as my favorite under $100 omakase spot.

+6

Wonderful last min experience. Came here on a whim on a double date with my bestie and i loved it. I’ve been to the one in jersey city with my bf but never the city. I think this one might top the jersey city one by just the slighted bit tho. Good vibes, drinks, and music. The chef was very accommodating to my dietary restrictions. I will be back for sure.

+6

Sushi by Bou - Chelsea NYC @ Super Nice Coffee in New York, NY. Walk through a coffee shop to this amazing speak easy vibe for sushi? Sign me up! I absolutely loved this omakase sushi experience. Sushi By Bou offers a signature 12-piece omakase with the finest and freshest fish. Super fun omakase experience! Insta: @thehungrysw

+3

This place was recommended through a friend and I knew I had to give it a try just from the pictures alone. The service was amazing from start to finish. I had requested a couple of things since it was my friend’s birthday dinner and they did everything I asked for and more! The omakase experience in itself was incredible as well. It felt like I had my own private chef since the bar felt more intimate than other omakases I’ve been to. Overall the experience was 10/10 I’m definitely coming back

It was a great time here for omakase. Our sushi chef was Brian, he was interactive and fun. Brian and Imax made it such a fun experience, I would definitely come back the next time I’m in New York!

+2

I didn’t expect the omakase and service to be this good! The speakeasy vibe, curated sake and cocktails, and vibrant modern design make it a perfect spot for quality sushi and Instagram shots as well. They even customize sushi based on allergies and preferences. A customer next to me literally swap four pieces with no issue. Highly recommend!

+2

This place can be a little cramped, but it still worked for us with one person in a power wheelchair. We were seated at the high top counter in the back for the omakase experience. The food was outstanding, and Jack told us what each piece was, taking preferences and allergies into account. Imax(spelling??) was funny, warm, and welcoming as a host, checking in on us throughout the experience. We loved it and wish we’d had time to come back before leaving NYC. Absolutely recommend to anyone!

The best omakase experience! I booked for 4 people for my friends birthday & had to make changes to the reservation last minute & they were so understanding and accommodating! Our sushi chef was beyond amazing and so funny. I didn’t catch his name, but the GM also made the entire experience even better. It was extremely affordable and I would definitely return and highly recommend this to anyone that hasn’t tried omakase before!

Was served by Chef David, we got the base set omakase - incredible! I personally liked the fatty tuna, but my gf liked the yellowtail. You can’t go wrong with whatever they give you, but it was our first omakase and it was out of this world. 1000% recommend, make sure to buy your chef a drink 👌

My girlfriend and I absolutely love Sushi by Bou – Chelsea NYC at Bosque Flowers & Coffee — it’s become our special date night spot. The atmosphere is intimate, the management and staff make us feel genuinely cared for, and every visit is such a great experience that it makes us fall in love all over again. This review is way overdue… and after writing it, we’re already looking for a reservation for TONIGHT.

We had an amazing dinner here! Delicious sake and incredibly fresh fish in the omakase. Plus great vibes and really lovely staff — IMAX took great care of us and Kin was the best sushi chef. We’ll be back!

Rinzin Namgyal

It was the best OMAKASE experience for me and my wife specially on her birthday. Great Hospitality and very friendly and nurturing staffs and the chefs were super innovative and very good listeners when it comes to a request. You're gonna love the Ambience and when it comes to prices very very reasonable. Loves it!

Elizabeth Kenah

As a seasoned sushi eater, this was my first omakase experience, and it was exceptional. From the start, the vibes were incredible. Host Imax made us feel right at home in a space that feels elegantly decorated yet intimate—almost like visiting a friend’s home. The sushi itself was outstanding. Each piece was expertly balanced with the perfect touch of condiment to highlight the fish, with the toro being a clear standout. We were able to linger over our bottle of sake without ever feeling rushed. I will definitely be back!!

Carolyn Izzo

Had the best time celebrating the holidays with my team. Loved the location, ambiance, service, and the incredible sushi. What an experience. Special shout-out to Imax who took care of us from the minute we walked in the door. He added so much to our celebration and made us all feel like royalty! Coming back soon!

LJ With no K

Got the "bougie" Omakase for $100 and it was very good. We loved every piece and our chef was both capable and personable. The host was also enjoyable to talk to. This is the 3rd Sushi by Bou location I've tried and I've liked them all.

+14

Mike Mesce

My 2nd time at sushi by bou. Both times were 10/10. Imax was very accommodative! What a Great manager/host! Even went out of his way to make our night a little extra special and was able to beautifully set the dishes for my girlfriend and her family with some flowers we brought to the restaurant. Thanks Imax you the man. Our chef Koichi (I hope i’m spelling that right) was very welcoming and accommodative of our group’s food allergies and preferences! A Bright personality and even better chef skills! Can’t wait until they open the new location in EV! If you’re looking for Omakase you can’t go wrong here.

Sarah Torres

This was our fifth time at a Sushi by Bou (all locations we’ve been to 10/10) but somehow it keeps getting better every visit.The omakase was phenomenal!! Every piece was melt-in-your-mouth perfection and the chefs make the whole experience feel fun and engaging. The vibe is intimate, the cocktails are amazing, and the staff are so kind. We’re already counting down to the next visit

Maria Dubinina

I’ve been to many Sushi by Bou locations (they have quite a few now - over 20!), and while I usually go to the Jersey City one since it’s just a few blocks from my home, the Chelsea location is my absolute favorite. I’ve celebrated so many special occasions here - my mom’s birthday, my own birthday, and a few others, and every single time has been unforgettable. The design of the Chelsea space is beautiful, spacious, and gives off such a cool, elevated vibe. The staff are always so attentive, friendly, and genuinely welcoming - it’s one of the many reasons I keep coming back. This Tuesday I came with a friend who had never been before, and she was so excited to finally experience it. From start to finish, everything was fantastic. Our chef was cheerful, engaging, and made every single piece feel special, each bite somehow tasted better than the last! My favorite pieces are always the maguro and albacore, and my friend loved all the warm pieces (most are served cold, which makes the warm ones a fun surprise). Everything was incredibly fresh and perfectly balanced, you can really taste the quality and care that goes into every bite. I also love their drink menu. I opted for a non-alcoholic cocktail this time, and my friend had a few sake shots, everything complemented the omakase beautifully. Overall, the Chelsea location truly stands out among all Sushi by Bou spots. It’s my go-to place for special occasions or even just when I want to treat myself. My friend’s already planning to go back, and I know I’ll be back again soon too. Thank you to the Sushi by team for always making me feel at home and delivering such a consistent, memorable experience every single time! 🍣❤️

Romy G

We had an incredible experience at Sushi by Bou in Chelsea! The intimate, speakeasy-style atmosphere made the night feel special from start to finish. The omakase was outstanding: fresh, beautifully presented, and perfectly paced so you can really savor each piece. The expert chef made sure we were enjoying each piece. What truly set the night apart, though, was the service. IMAX, the manager, was absolutely amazing. From the moment we walked in, he made us feel welcome and taken care of. His energy was fun yet professional, and he went above and beyond to ensure everything was perfect. You can tell he genuinely cares about creating a memorable experience for guests. Between the delicious sushi and IMAX’s incredible hospitality, Sushi by Bou is a must-visit in Chelsea. I’ll definitely be back!

Salma Meza

I had the best experience at Sushi by Bou with my man in Chelsea! The owner was so welcoming and made the night feel extra special. The food was absolutely delicious and incredibly fresh — every bite was perfection. Jack prepared our 17 rolls for the night, and his skill and attention to detail were unmatched. Truly one of the best sushi experiences I’ve ever had. 100/10 recommend if you’re looking for amazing sushi and great vibes in New York City! 🍣✨

Rouge Yusuf

Best Omakase experience in my life. I stumbled on this place while walking back to my hotel and it was the highlight of my trip. Our chef, Koichi ensured we understood every item and treated us to a sake shot. Say 👋 to him if you make it there.

Leigh Sansone

Reservations required for a one hour high end sushi bar experience. I ordered the basic Omakase package, no extra frills (until the end of the meal). You have the option to pick a prix fixe with more items - the menu is online to see. (Order whatever has the most UNI - AMAZING!). You can also request a sake pairing for additional cost. And, at the end of the service, you can order á la carte items as well. Sushi By Bou is designed as a speakeasy, behind a coffee shop (the coffee shop is not currently in operation, but they said they were going to start serving coffee soon). The sushi bar itself is dark, lush, and intimate, with a few bar tables for drinks while you wait (and possibly for overflow), a fully stocked bar, and a sushi bar. The sushi bar itself accommodates 10 in one hour seatings. The chefs behind the sushi bar are efficient and skilled. They announce each course as they serve it. For the people who get larger prix fixe meals, the chefs deftly serve those courses in between courses in the basic prix fixe meals. I picked sushi boo at random over several other options in the general area, and I was 100% satisfied and more than that, thrilled with the offerings. The food was outstanding, the service was efficient, the atmosphere was great and the people at the sushi bar were super friendly. For an extremely reasonable price, this was one of the better meals I’ve had in recent memory. I did have one à la carte Nigiri, after my main meal was finished, and next time I’ll go back for a larger prix fixe meal. Cannot recommend strongly enough. Outstanding HIGH quality sushi experience.

Kat Arnett

Everything about our experience was amazing. We were greeted with warmth and hospitality. The staff was attentive and worked smoothly around us so not to disturb our conversation or experience. The chef's creations were delicious and he was clear to explain each dish. I highly recommend coming here!

Luna Urquizu

Sushi By Bou Chelsea is hands down one of the most unique and enjoyable sushi experiences I've had in NYC. From the moment you walk in, the vibe sets it apart; dimly lit, stylish, and tucked behind a discreet door like a speakeasy. It feels exclusive without being pretentious. Hip-hop plays in the background, giving the space an energy that’s fun and modern, yet still refined. I went with the 12-piece omakase, and every bite was a standout. The experience is timed (about 30 minutes), but it never feels rushed. The chefs are right in front of you, preparing each piece with precision and flair, and taking the time to describe each selection, including where the fish came from and what makes it special. Everything was incredibly fresh, the rice was perfectly seasoned, and even the ginger was amazing (they refilled my ginger at least 5 times). You can tell the ingredients are top-quality, and there’s a lot of care that goes into the preparation and presentation. The staff were attentive, welcoming, and clearly passionate about what they do. Our chef was engaging and made the experience feel personal and fun. I personally don’t drink alcohol, but my husband and his friends LOVED their drinks so much that they had multiple even though we had planned to go to a cocktail bar afterwards. If you’re looking for high-end sushi with a laid-back, cool vibe (and not the usual hushed omakase setting), Sushi By Bou in Chelsea is a must. It's perfect for date night, special occasions, or just treating yourself. I’ll definitely be back to one of their multiple locations throughout the city.

+4

Amanda Charalambous

This was my first omakase experience and it was incredible! My group had a great time, great atmosphere, awesome staff (shoutout to IMAX!), and super affordable compared to other cities I’ve seen with 12-courses for only $65. I’m still daydreaming about the miso cod… Next time I’m in NYC, I’ll def be back! Highly recommend.

+2

Alexander Kontoleon

Came here after the Joy of Sake event and had a delightful meal. The space really does a evoke a speakeasy with sneaky entrance, its intimate quarters, and friendly staff. The omakase we had was fresh and fun, some classic peices but also some unique new takes. Sitting at the bar and getting to chat with the Chef was fun. Did a sake pairing to go with it that was very tasty. Finished with their 'Big Mac' which was a wonderful combo of wagyu, uni, and scallop. An awesome bite. All around a good sushi experience.

+18

sharon

Great experience! I've been to other sushi by bou locations and love that every one of them is slightly different. This place was more like a Speakeasy. The coffee shop in front was "closed." The lights were off, and the door had a lock on it. But it wasn't actually closed. You come in, and in the back, there was someone to confirm your reservation. Very small and intimate space inside. The sushi was wonderful. I like the contemporary take on each course. The chimichurri and chili oil ones were surprising to me. The traditional takes on sushi is great, but the occasional contemporary take is great too.

+18

Hannah Kang

It was our first time visiting, thanks to the BOGO deal, and we were thoroughly impressed. The location is unbeatable—nestled at the back of a cozy cafe/flower shop, the speakeasy atmosphere adds a touch of elegance to this already exceptional omakase spot. Imax, the manager, was wonderful—warm, attentive, and consistently checking in to ensure everything was perfect. Chef Jack was equally fantastic, explaining each sushi piece and making sure we enjoyed every bite. The fish was incredibly fresh, and the attention to detail was evident in every dish. This was easily a 10/10 experience, and we’d absolutely return!

+5

Gina Rattanaboontham

Fell in love with this spot! Affordable omakase that gives you a luxurious vibes. Sushi was quite fresh! We got an upgrade to 17 course and Chef was courteous and catering. All staff were very pleasant.

+17

CakilKayi

The gem is hidden away in the coffee shop, and while it looks unassuming, it is my favorite go-to spot for sushi. The fish is always incredibly fresh and some of the best sushi ever! 😋 They have excellent customer service, and their music is very soothing! 10/10. I would highly recommend it if you are craving delicious sushi! It is hands down the freshest and tastiest! I've had it several times, and the freshness, taste, and prep speed never fail. I love the tuna sushi and nigiri! So good! Highly recommend.

+3

Pretty good for omakase in the city in terms of value: $65 for 12 courses. Our chef was very efficient and precise; I enjoyed watching him work. Small number of seats and space made it more intimate which I prefer. Music was at a reasonable level (compared to the Times Sq location which was way too loud), though not really a fan of the genre. Some guests in the bar area were having fun and were kind of loud, which I understand is part of the vibe the owners are going for - but for an omakase experience it's not very pleasant. Standard variety of fish for the city. Fish texture was solid but for whatever reason sometimes lacked flavors - many of them tasted very similar, which is something I haven't experienced at other places. Rice sometimes bordered on a little too much in terms of texture/flavor/quantity with certain pieces, where it overpowered the fish. They paired uni with beef which was surprisingly better than I expected. Yuzu was used on too many pieces in my opinion. It was super hot a few years ago, but now it just feels gimmicky. Overall, I've been to two Sushi By Bou locations and my feeling is that if you want to have sushi that's more elevated than your local spot or if you want to have a little celebration, they are a very solid place to go. There are definitely places in the city charging more while providing the same quality. In terms of experiencing a really special and memorable omakase - I don't think that's their goal.

The omakase was delicious, though it felt rushed. Half hr to dine. Had to chuck the sake down at the end.

+6

Sushi by Bou (SB) provides a more than decent omakase experience for a very reasonable price. Just to be very clear, this is not your top notch Michelin star omakase experience but rather a "good enough" reasonable substitute. You absolutely get a omakase experience with some of the concoctions pushing the fusion boundary a bit. But the elegance of a master sushi maker is something that you won't get. I like the fact that they went experimental with some of the sauces or how the ingrdients were put together. For example, the Big Mac (which isn't part of the standard omakase) combines 3~4 premium ingredients like uni. Yes it tastes good but it doesn't mean that the creation blows your mind where you experience something completely unexpected. Some of the experiments work, but many of them draft behind good fish. This location in Chelsea is a bit difficult to find. It is hidden at the back of a coffee shop and if you don't ask, you'll never find it. You walk through the coffee shop to have a secret door open which leads you to this cozy alcove where there are about 8 omakase seats and a separate bar. Again, great atmosphere and the servers were friendly. Go to SB for a casual omakase experience. Don't set your expectations too high though. This is casual.

+4

Tucked inside a coffee shop. Very discreet sushi bar offering quality omakase. Only two omakase choices, $65 and $100. $100 comes with a shot of sake. Fish quality on par so is the chef skill. We order one set each to experience the difference. Both nice. But I personally think next time I will order $65 then add pieces I want, instead of filling up first.

+3

Food - I would give food a 3.5 out of 5. This was my second ever omakase after Tanoshi, and as a result I did do a lot of comparing. Tanoshi was a life changing experience but I would say this was just a very good meal. Compared to most sushi places, this is high level pieces of amazing quality. However I wouldn't say most were greatly innovative. The miso cod and chopped tuna were the only pieces I feel I couldn't get anywhere else. The wagyu uni was my favorite but I think I got less uni here than at Tanoshi (it is cheaper I guess). Finally the final piece of the unagi I got had a weird sharp edge or something. I managed to wash it down with sake so I didn't order additional pieces and at this point my companion and I decided it was better we fill up l elsewhere. I will say - I don't think the 12 pieces is sufficient for most people unless you're planning on adding pieces! Maybe the 15 piece experience is but for the cost and service, I wouldn't necessarily do that here. Service - the non-chef staff are very attentive and kind. I really appreciated how prompt their service is and how attentive they were. For our chef we had Orly who was fun and engaging - except I think he interacted far more with the couple in front of him than me and my companion. I was seated in the far corner so unfortunately it felt kinda like I was a wallflower. There was a point where he lets you torch the wagyu - that was the most interaction we had. Atmosphere - like I mentioned above, I was unfortunately stuck in the far corner so I did feel a little trapped and not engaged at some points which really stinks. In my first and previous omakase experience I felt a lot more free to engage with our sushi chef and there was a semblance of more privacy and care even though it was also counter seating. I will say the speakeasy experience was really cool introduction to the restaurant but it's only a short part of the whole experience. Finally - we went to celebrate a work promotion for me and I paid. I didn't realize they calculate the tip on the amount with the free drinks added - which was very nice of them to give us free drinks but the tipping calculation just felt like a hidden/sneaky thing if that makes sense. To wrap it all up: would I come to Sushi by BOU again? Maybe but I wouldn't say the experience was so unique that I won't just try another omakase experience where I think I can have more of a conversation with the chef and really fall in love with each bite. I didn't get that from Sushi by BOU but for budget omakase I think it's a pretty decent time.

Cheap, affordable omakase in NYC. Not the best quality fish but def recommend if you want to try omakase around $60 pp (before tip/tax). They recently did a 2 for $70 deal as well, which made it more worth!

+6

The worst omakase I've had in NYC. Fish quality was average at best, the sushi rice was overly seasoned and undercooked. They torched the albacore so much it became entirely cooked. The miso cod tasted good but it was odd to see miso cod in sushi (usually a dish to eat with plain white rice) The only thing they got right was probably the fish to rice ratio. I came to sushi by bou with the buy 2 get one free deal and I still think it was not worth it. I got take out sushi the following night at my neighborhood joint and honestly it was better 😅 if you have omakase regularly please do yourself a favor and skip this place.

+6

We had an 8:00 PM reservation on Sunday, February 15, 2026 at Sushi by Bou Chelsea. What was meant to be a special evening turned into one of the most uncomfortable dining experiences we have ever had. As we were being seated at the counter, a staff member who identified himself as “IMAX” repeatedly told my husband to sit down. We are French, and my husband did not immediately understand. Instead of clarifying politely, the tone became increasingly irritated and aggressive. When my husband calmly said, “Please speak easy, calm down,” the situation escalated further. The staff member then switched to French and addressed us using slang, saying: “Frérot, I’m speaking calmly. If you’re not happy, you leave.” (For context, “frérot” is slang equivalent to “bro,” which is inappropriate when addressing guests.) He then said in French: “Just sit down, shut up and eat.” Being told to “shut up and eat” by a restaurant employee is unacceptable under any circumstances. We decided to leave immediately. As we were putting our coats on near the entrance, he came back and told us: “Come back inside, sit down, I’ll offer you the meal.” However, at that point the damage was already done. The pressure, the tone, and the way we had been spoken to had already ruined the evening. I was in tears. Although he offered a complimentary meal and partially apologized, he also stated that he has worked in food and beverage for 50 years, that he “always speaks like this,” and that he would not change. That statement is deeply concerning. Professionalism and respect are fundamental in hospitality. We had arranged childcare for this evening and were genuinely looking forward to it. Instead, it became an extremely upsetting experience. We will not be returning.

Tiffany Kim

I've been to several omakase spots, and this probably by far, one of the worst omakase spots I have ever been to. The fish was already pre-cut which is weird because most omakase spots cut it in front of you, and honestly the rice was salty. My friend ended up spitting out the uni/wagyu piece because the chef burnt the wagyu and the uni was so bitter 😭 The only redeeming parts to this restaurant are the bartender who makes fantastic cocktails, and the sushi chef's hilarious personality. I don't mind spending money at omakase, but who can't resist a good deal? I decided to try this place out because we saw an ad where they were running a $70 12-piece omakase for $55. However, when we got our check, the math didn't seem to make sense. I couldn't lay my finger on what was wrong, and the workers kept watching from behind us and kept saying "Don't worry, you got your discount. It's right here." Granted, I've paid nearly $200pp pre-tax/tip before for omakase. It's not about the money but the principle. After we left the restaurant, I realized that the restaurant had charged the tip % based off the subtotal BEFORE the discount, and not AFTER the discount. This does not make sense. My boyfriend thought he was paying 18%, when in actuality, we got scammed to pay nearly 25% for tip. Beware of these scammers and their tips/tricks. They also watch you while you click which tip percentage you choose, which is weird because most restaurants these days have the workers look away as courtesy. Never again. Won't be coming here, and make sure to check your bills, folks.