Imagine being transported to a world where each bite is a mystery, the chef’s creativity and expertise are on display, and every course is a meticulously prepared masterpiece.
If you’re in Penang and looking for an extraordinary dining experience that will tantalise your taste buds and leave you in awe, an omakase dinner at one of these great Japanese restaurants is your next culinary adventure.
Omakase is a unique Japanese dining concept where the chef curates a personalised menu, showcasing traditional Japanese cooking. From the origins of the freshest seafood sourced from specific markets in Japan to the inspiration behind each dish, the chefs guide diners through a multi-course meal, starting from lighter dishes and progressively moving to heavier ones.
Is your curiosity enough to let the chef’s impeccable choices rule your palate? Let’s discover what surprises are in store.
1. Kazumasa Japanese Restaurant
Kazumasa Japanese Restaurant in Penang offers an inviting and authentic omakase experience under Chef Ron, who has 20 years of Japanese culinary experience. With a focus on omakase, Kazumasa imports the freshest ingredients, such as premium Oturo, Choturo, and Uni, directly from Japan.
If you’re looking for an exceptional and unforgettable Japanese dining experience, Kazumasa is a must-visit owing to its cosy atmosphere and exquisite à la carte or chef’s selection menu, where you leave it to the chef to curate a unique culinary journey.
Address: 50C, 1, Jalan Fettes, Tanjung Tokong, 11200 Tanjung Bungah, Penang
2. Komorebi Dining
In the heart of Penang’s bustling food scene, you’ll find Komorebi Dining, a luxury restaurant serving refined Japanese kappo cuisine with a touch of Western flair. The restaurant is well known for its calm and cosy atmosphere, which makes it the ideal location for an elegant and personalised dinner.
The chef’s skill in balancing presentation and flavour is evident in standout dishes like Miso Wagyu Steak and Uni Pasta. With an emphasis on using products that are in season and acquired locally, every course is meticulously prepared to take guests on a memorable gastronomic adventure.
Address: 138, Jalan Pintal Tali, George Town, 10100 George Town, Penang
3. Kyuu Official
Kyuu Omakase is an innovative approach to traditional Japanese fine dining that takes diners on a journey through their senses rather than just serving them a meal. The restaurant specialises in omakase, paying painstaking attention to the artistry and details, as shown in each course that flows into the next.
To ensure an authentic and unique gastronomic adventure through the tastes of Japan, Kyuu uses only the finest ingredients, flown straight from Tokyo. Kyuu guarantees an experience that takes dining to a whole new level, whether you’re an experienced foodie or just starting with Japanese cuisine.
Address: Jalan Seri Tg Pinang, Tanjung Tokong, 10470 George Town, Penang
4. A Maze
Nestled in Taman Pekaka, Sungai Dua, A Maze is a private dining experience that is unlike any other and was started by Chef Wei. Only eight seats are available each night, so it’s a small environment catering for an intimate and immersive gastronomic experience.
A Maze, specialising in the omakase dining concept, offers a different creative and innovative menu every month, inspired by Penang’s bright produce and rich tradition while showcasing the best seasonal products.
Unlike other omakase restaurants in Penang, there are no menus or ordering processes here. Instead, just come with a sense of curiosity and allow Chef Wei to surprise you, one bite at a time.
Address: 2-G-5, Bangunan Lip Sin, Lebuh Pekaka 1, Taman Pekaka, 11700 Sungai Dua, Penang
5. Kaishin Sushi Omakase
Kaishin Sushi Omakase in Penang offers a distinctive dining experience centred around a Sushi Omakase Counter. ‘Kaishin,’ which translates to ‘ocean’ and ‘heart,’ reflects the restaurant’s commitment to creating outstanding sushi with precision and passion.
Chef Damien Tan, who has won numerous awards, supervises Kaishin, which sources the best seafood straight from Japanese markets and adapts the menu to feature in-season, fresh ingredients.
The intimate culinary journey guests are treated to offers a unique experience, fusing traditional Edomae sushi expertise with a contemporary touch.
Address: 69, Jalan Sri Bahari, 10050 George Town, Penang
6. Tokkuri Tei Japanese Cuisine
Celebrated for its authentic Japanese cuisine, Tokkuri Tei Japanese Cuisine is a dining venue not to be missed. While the comprehensive menu includes a wide range of traditional items, the Omakase experience is the restaurant’s actual highlight.
Guests are welcome to specify their budget, and the talented chefs will create a personalised dining experience using the season’s best and freshest foods.
Address: Block H 16, 1, Lorong Bayan Indah 2, Bay Avenue, 11900 Bayan Lepas, Pulau Pinang
7. Kappo by Arakawa
At Kappo by Arakawa, you can enjoy exquisite Japanese cuisine that expertly combines classic and contemporary flavours.
Choose from a variety of prix fixe options or the Lunch or Dinner Omakase, which features seasonal specialities. Kappo dining is unlike any other kind of meal as guests sit at a wooden counter and observe the expert chefs prepare their food.
Address: 253G-1, 4, Jalan Burma, Premier Centre, 10350 George Town, Pulau Pinang
