Must we go to Masa?
For our anniversary every year we pull out all the stops and only go for the best - past anniversary dinners include: Per Se, Alain Ducasse, Daniel, Le Bernardin... you get the idea.
We love sushi and this year we're torn between Masa & Yasuda. I know both are excellent, but is Masa that much better to demand such a higher price (it looks like omakase now runs $400-$600 pp. ++)? Whereas it looks like Yasuda will run us about $500 total for Omakase for two.
I've read hounds who rave about Masa, and others who rave about Yasuda - and it just seems like a huge price difference for two very similar experiences.
So I guess my question is:
Is Masa $500 better than Yasuda? Must we go to Masa?
(l know there are other must trys out there but this time it's between these two - we'll get to 15 East & Soto some other time)
Sorry for the ramble - thanks in advance.
By Spends Rent on Food
on Jul 11, 2008 06:34 AM
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Yasuda is a casual atmosphere, does not feel special occasion-y, if that makes a difference. Yasuda is excellent - but you really should sit at the bar at Yasuda's station for the best experience. Cost at Yasuda will depend on your capacity for quantity, and the type of fish you order . I have spent $75 there, and I have spent $300 there (per person). And of course depends on booze. Masa is a prix fixe. It's a very special restaurant and the quality and creativity do surpass Yasuda. Whether it's worth the money to you - that's a very individual thing.
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Atmosphere is somewhat important. Yasuda is also about 3 blocks from where we live, so it will have less of a 'special occasion' vibe to begin with.
When it comes to food, I tend to lose my level head and throw money carelessly at any tasting menu I see. At Per Se for instance we went at the full tasting menu with a full head of steam "Wegu for an additional $100 you say? Why not. Caviar? Sure, pile it on..." And it was absolutely worth every penny - we always describe Per Se a 'special experience', as you've done with Masa, which means quite a bit to us.
So it sounds like it must be Masa.
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If you have the dough to spend and you enjoy spending it in this way - you won't be sorry. It's very, very good.
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It's the best sushi I've had in the US and agree with other statements on the board. But since it hasn't been said, you MUST sit at the bar in front of the chefs. If all they have is tables, book another night.
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Absolutely.
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