Review: Yuzu Omakase, Vietnam
I’m not going to lie—this isn’t my usual go-to Omakase experience.
I’m a purist when it comes to Omakase, so the idea of a showy, experimental version had me side-eyeing the invitation. But when I was asked to check out Yuzu Omakase, I couldn’t resist. I mean, between the gold dust, fire theatrics, foam, and the fact that Yuzu Omakase is an international brand (the third outpost of the award-winning Yuzu Omakase from Thailand and Cambodia), how could I say no?
So, there I was on a random weekday night, and guess what? The place was packed.
Couples were celebrating anniversaries, friends were catching up, families were treating themselves to a special night out, and then there was me—a solo diner, ready to embrace the experience. From my front-row seat at the sushi counter, I embarked on the ‘Journey’ menu (6,500,000 VND++), which included over 20 courses. Yes, 20+ courses. And let me tell you, after going through the whole experience, I can confidently say I see the appeal.
Yuzu Omakase is not just a dinner, it’s a full-on show
The evening unfolded like a theatrical production. Each course arrived with its own dramatic flair—think smoke, bursts of gold dust sprays, cracking of fruit tree branches, and snacks like bacon-flavored Pocky sticks in customized boxes. At one point, I was served sushi topped with an actual mountain of truffle shavings wrapped in gold. Yes, gold-wrapped sushi. Each dish seemed more extravagant and over-the-top than the last, but it kept me engaged, and—dare I say—entertained throughout.
While I do love my traditional Omakase, Yuzu isn’t just about theatrics for the sake of it. The quality of the ingredients is top-notch, and despite all the bells and whistles, the seafood speaks for itself. Almost every piece of fish is imported directly from the world-renowned Tsukiji Fish Market in Japan, which explains the quality.
Their tried-and-tested signatures, like the luscious melon ice cream made from fresh Japanese melon, have earned them a solid reputation with sushi lovers across Thailand and Cambodia. So, if you’re wondering if Yuzu Omakase is all style and no substance, rest assured—it’s not.
In Saigon where Edomae-style sushi is king, Yuzu offers something different
With its playful, lavish presentation and fusion-style approach (Sosaku sushi, anyone?), it appeals to a wide range of diners—young, old, locals, and foreigners alike. The inclusion of non-Japanese ingredients like foie gras and caviar caters to those who want to push the boundaries of traditional sushi.
My verdict? Yuzu Omakase is an experience you have to try at least once. It may not replace my love for a simple, classic Omakase, but it offers something unique—a blend of quality, creativity, and pure entertainment. And hey, who doesn’t love a sprinkle of gold dust on their sushi?
Address: 34 Thủ Khoa Huân, Phường Bến Thành, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City
Opening Hours: 6pm to 1015pm (daily)
