What is omakase?
Meaning, tradition and Japanese culinary experience
Meaning and origin of omakase
Omakase (お任せ) literally means "I leave it to you" in Japanese. It is a tradition born in the sushi restaurants of the Edo era, where the guest places complete trust in the chef to compose their meal.
Originally, this practice allowed the chef to showcase the best products of the day — the freshest fish from the market, seasonal vegetables. Today, omakase remains the purest expression of Japanese cuisine: a silent dialogue between the chef and the guest.
How an omakase meal unfolds
The experience takes place at the counter, facing the chef. Each piece is prepared before you, in a carefully considered order: from the most delicate to the most intense flavours.
The meal follows a precise sequence: light white fish, then richer fish, shellfish, and finally the most flavourful pieces. Each bite is a moment in itself, sometimes accompanied by the chef's explanation of the product and its preparation.
The fish and shellfish are selected according to the season — the best of what the sea offers at that moment. This is what makes each omakase experience unique.
Omakase vs regular sushi restaurant
In a regular sushi restaurant, you choose your pieces from the menu. In omakase, the chef decides. There is no fixed menu: the composition changes according to the catch, the season and the inspiration of the moment.
Omakase is also an immersive experience. Seated at the counter, you observe every gesture — the cutting of the fish, the shaping of the rice, the assembly of each nigiri. It is a culinary performance as much as a meal.
Omakase at Kinkō in Capbreton
At Kinkō Omakase, chef Vincent Olivier offers his vision of omakase at his Japanese restaurant in Capbreton, in the Landes region of southwest France. Trained at the Tokyo Sushi Academy, he combines traditional Japanese techniques with exceptional Atlantic coast produce. A fine dining destination accessible from Hossegor, Seignosse, Bayonne and Biarritz.
The restaurant has 6 counter seats, for an intimate and personalised experience. The rice is prepared with patience, the fish selected with rigour — every detail counts.
Two tasting menus are available: the First Harmonies menu (€50) to discover omakase, and the Immersive menu (€90) for the complete experience with amuse-bouche, sashimi, nigiri and desserts.
Frequently asked questions about omakase
How much does an omakase meal cost at Kinkō?
The First Harmonies menu is €50 (hosomaki + 8 nigiri) and the Immersive menu is €90 (amuse-bouche, 14 nigiri, sashimi, hosomaki, miso soup and dessert assortment). Tea, sake and wine pairings are available (+€25 or +€35).
What happens during an omakase meal?
You sit at the counter facing the chef. He prepares each piece of sushi before you, in a precise order: from the lightest to the most intense flavours. The Immersive menu lasts approximately 1.5 hours.
Do I need to book for omakase at Kinkō?
Yes, Kinkō Omakase operates by reservation only. The restaurant has 6 counter seats, ensuring an intimate and personalised experience. Book online or call +33 7 75 70 87 31.
What is the difference between omakase and a regular sushi restaurant?
In a regular sushi restaurant, you order from the menu. In omakase, the chef composes your meal based on seasonal products and his inspiration. It is an immersive counter experience where each piece is prepared before you.
Experience omakase at Kinkō in Capbreton