Sushi Ishikawa: The Pinnacle of Omakase in NYC

I went there for a solo dinner on a Saturday. The server was really friendly and welcoming, made me feel accompanied, and did a great job on explaining the ingredients. Unlike some other places I’ve tried, the chef was really creative with the sushi by mixing and matching different kinds of fish. He was also really generous with the caviar lol. The flavor was a little strong like others say however, but overall the food was impeccable. Their secret menu (the one with a quailed egg on top) is a must try!! Will definitely bring friends and family there next time!

Sushi Ishikawa is a modern omakase experience on the UES. We had made reservations the day before and were running late so called ahead. They were so kind and the sushi chef caught us up to the rest of the diners once we were seated. We ordered two carafes of sake to pair with our sushi, both were good and refreshing. There were many courses as expected but overall the fish was very fresh and each piece was unique. Each fish did have some sort of topping- so if you’re a purist you may not like the omakase here. It was fun for us to try these new presentations! Although some of them seemed like throwing expensive ingredients like uni, truffle, caviar, and even gold flakes to make the high price point. I’d say it’s worth it but again, if you’re more into traditional omakase than this place may be too fun for your taste! Highlights were the Chawanmushi, toro, uni on toast, some fish I forget with a fried shiso leaf, and the matcha panna cotta for me. I also need to mention the ginger- it came in small cubes and was the perfect little bite. We were celebrating that night and were also offered champagne at the end of the night. Our service was EXCEPTIONAL and our experience was highly memorable. Our server and staff explained each piece in detail. Our server was so kind and engaging and we had some light conversation about some of the highlights which was really nice. Also the fact that they seated us late and were able to catch us up was very considerate. Some omakase places may leave out the ones you missed or not seat you if you’re late enough. Overall, not sure I would come again for the food on my own but would bring a new friend if they were looking for a fun omakase experience.

One of the better omakase spots I’ve been to for NYC. Caught a last minute reservation for last minute dinner plans with a friend. Arrived 20 minutes late due to the usual traffic and parking. The staff are friendly and courteous. We had the 17 course with some additional specials as well. I really enjoyed the experience and the atmosphere was great. It’s easy to have a conversation at the chef’s counter and great to watch them create the sushi. Our waitress, Emma, made sure to treat all of her guests with compassion and diligence. I would definitely come back again.

Dining at Sushi Ishikawa UES is to witness the fine edge between craftsmanship and art. Having experienced omakase at some of Japan’s most venerated counters, I can attest that the mastery displayed here stands comfortably among the elite. What Chef Don Phan and his team achieve is not simply sushi, it is the embodiment of harmony, tempo, and restraint. Each of the seventeen courses unfolds like a movement in a symphony. The pacing is exquisite: delicate introductions giving way to bold crescendos of umami and texture. The opening bites, pristine seafood resting on perfectly seasoned shari, awaken the palate, while later compositions, such as buttery otoro crowned with caviar or uni paired with crisp gold leaf, bring a near-transcendent depth of flavor. The interplay of temperature and timing is meticulous; every piece is shaped and served at its fleeting moment of perfection. Technique is on full display from the subtle torching that teases aroma from wagyu, to the layering of crab and toro that melts like silk. The rice, lightly warm and impeccably balanced in vinegar, provides the heartbeat of the meal. Even the visual presentation of shimmering roe, edible gold, shiso leaf, is a quiet nod to Japanese aesthetics: minimal, intentional, beautiful. Service mirrors the cuisine. Attentive without intrusion, professional yet warm. Each dish arrives with grace and rhythm, allowing diners to be absorbed fully in the progression of taste and texture. By the final hand roll, the meal feels less like dinner and more like a journey: a sequence of sensations that remind you why sushi, when done at this level, belongs in the pantheon of culinary art. Sushi Ishikawa is a masterclass in precision, humility, and passion — an omakase experience that both honors tradition and dares to reach higher. Arigatou gozaimashita to Chef Phan and his remarkable team. Their omotenashi and shokunin spirit transform every bite into a moment of pure harmony.

All I can say is WOW!!! This was my first omakase experience and all I can say is 10/10!!! From start to finish we were blown away! The meticulous work put into each course was superb! The service was impeccable, so attentive and explained each dish to us. Absolutely recommend!! Dont walk, RUN!!

Probably one of my favorite omakase experiences. Chef Don is a master and prepared every course to perfection. We appreciated that he was able to cater to some specific dietary restrictions in our group. The service was top notch and the vibes were great. Excellent sake selection too. The staff recommended some great bottles. Truly a special and unique experience.

One phenomenal course after another! And for the first and only time, my husband left an omakase completely satisfied. Usually, he needs a late night snack to stop the hunger pangs. Ishikawa’s portions were so generous and filling that he didn’t have to ruin the memory of a fantastic meal with an order of fries. The bar was friendly and fun, the beverage menu will chosen and reasonably priced. The fish was perfect in every way, from rhe freshness and cut to the toppings and presentation. Nothing but love for this place. We’ll be back again and again.

Came here for my boyfriend’s dinner and had an incredible experience. Chef Lin and the staff were flawless—their attention to detail, kindness, and professionalism made the night so special. Chef Lin himself was wonderful to talk to, and the food was outstanding—one of the best omakase experiences I’ve ever had. The wine list was excellent, and the ambiance, service, and quality of food were all top-notch. I would definitely come back again.