Title: The Rising Trend of Omakase Dining Among New Jersey Kids
Smartly dressed seven-year-old Bliss Han of Edgewater delicately nibbled on a piece of raw Japanese eel at Shumi Leonia, savoring every bite. “Mmm,” she exclaimed, “I love this.” Bliss is just one of many young children in New Jersey who have developed a taste for omakase, the exquisite chef’s-tasting experience that has become a sought-after culinary adventure in high-end North Jersey sushi restaurants.
Omakase, a Japanese dining tradition where the chef crafts a personalized menu for diners, has gained popularity among families who see it as a shared cultural experience and an investment in their children’s culinary education. According to co-chef and owner David Seo of Shumi Leonia, the response from young omakase enthusiasts has been surprising but heartwarming. “When I opened our omakase room in 2021, I never expected kids to be some of our most devoted patrons,” Seo shared.
Dr. Maricel E. Presilla, a renowned cultural historian and chef, echoes this sentiment, emphasizing the diverse culinary landscape of New Jersey. “Our kids grow up with global appetites, and omakase is a reflection of that openness to new flavors and experiences,” Presilla remarked. With social media fueling the popularity of Japanese cuisine, families like the Cannons from Morristown have embraced omakase as a way to explore new culinary horizons together. Chris Cannon, a father and owner of Jockey Hollow Bar & Kitchen, noted how his family’s omakase experience in Japan was a revelation for his son Gabe, who now considers other sushi varieties as mere child’s play.
For many omakase-loving kids, the journey started at a young age. Bliss Han’s early exposure to sushi at her family’s restaurant in Manhattan laid the foundation for her current passion for omakase. Laura Klein’s son Noah and Anushka Pullatt of Watchung also developed a taste for sushi early on, leading them to appreciate the artistry and flavors of omakase dining.
As more families in New Jersey embrace omakase as a unique culinary experience, children like Chase Park of Ridgewood and Alexander Love of Summit have discovered a newfound love for this elevated dining tradition. From uni to exotic fish varieties, these young diners are expanding their palates and embracing the adventure of trying new flavors.
The transition from sushi to omakase has been a transformative and eye-opening experience for many kids, including Nate Zimmer of Verona, who recalls the evolution of his palate from gyoza dumplings to intricate omakase presentations. With each bite, these young foodies are not just tasting exquisite dishes but also creating lasting memories with their families.
As the trend of omakase dining continues to grow among New Jersey kids, it serves as a reminder of the diverse culinary landscape that the state has to offer. From the delicate dance of the chef’s knives to the burst of flavors in each bite, omakase is not just a meal but a shared experience that brings families closer together. As Anushka Pullatt aptly puts it, “Omakase is a special privilege, and I feel thankful to my parents for giving us this opportunity. It’s a gift that we cherish.”
In a state as diverse and vibrant as New Jersey, the rising trend of omakase dining among kids is a testament to the rich cultural tapestry that defines the culinary scene. From sushi babies to young connoisseurs of fine dining, these omakase kids are paving the way for a new generation of food enthusiasts who appreciate the artistry and tradition behind each dish.
