Discover Omakase: Sushi Like You’ve Never Tasted Before

If you think you know sushi, wait until you try Katsu Nakaji's omakase at Ronin in Milan. It's a culinary journey that captivates the senses!

The Art of Omakase Unveiled

When I first heard about Katsu Nakaji’s omakase experience at Ronin in Milan, I thought I knew what to expect from sushi. After all, how different could it be? But stepping into Ronin felt like entering an entirely new world of flavors and rituals. Omakase—which translates to "I leave it up to you"—is not just a meal; it’s an immersive experience where each dish is a story.

As Nakaji carefully prepares each piece, you quickly realize that sushi is so much more than just fish and rice. It’s a celebration of craftsmanship, tradition, and respect for ingredients. Watching him work is mesmerizing; he treats every slice as if it’s a precious gem. The anticipation builds with each course, and I found myself hanging on his every movement.

A Journey Through Generations

Katsu Nakaji is not just any chef; he embodies over 130 years of sushi-making heritage. Growing up under the guidance of his grandfather, he honed his skills through rigorous training and dedication. With two Michelin stars under his belt from his Tokyo restaurant, Hatsune Sushi, you can feel the weight of tradition in every bite.

What struck me most was his commitment to sharing this art form outside Japan. He mentioned that without a male heir to pass down his family legacy, he sought to spread his knowledge across borders. This drive adds layers of poignancy to the dining experience—each plate served at Ronin carries not just flavors but also stories of resilience and passion.

The Ritual Begins: Rice as the Centerpiece

At Ronin, only ten seats are available each night, making it an intimate setting for diners eager to embrace this unique culinary ritual. As we settled in, Nakaji began by emphasizing the importance of rice—cooked in a kamado oven at 500 degrees and seasoned with rare rice vinegar and sake lees. It was evident that this wasn’t just food; it was art.

The first course featured delicate morsels that highlighted the meticulous handling of ingredients—like Norwegian snow crab served with such finesse that it felt like witnessing a performance rather than simply eating.

I still vividly recall my reaction when I tasted the Mazara del Vallo shrimp; Nakaji had discovered these gems in Italy and proclaimed them the best in the world! The flavor was unlike anything I’d encountered before—sweet yet savory, fresh yet profound.

The Intimacy of Sushi Preparation

One moment that particularly stood out was when Nakaji prepared a nigiri of tuna right before my eyes. He explained that serving sushi by hand preserves its optimal temperature—a mere three seconds allowed before indulging in each piece ensures perfect harmony with your palate.

This intimacy transformed my dining experience into something deeply personal; I felt connected not only to my food but also to Nakaji’s artistry and philosophy behind sushi preparation.

Embracing Balance: Conviviality Meets Ritual

As I navigated through each carefully curated dish, I appreciated Nakaji’s insights on balance within the omakase experience—an interplay between conviviality and culinary ritual. His approach encourages focus while simultaneously fostering an atmosphere where relaxation reigns supreme.

The staff played an essential role too; they passionately guided us through each course while weaving in anecdotes about Japanese culture that enriched our understanding—and joy—of what we were experiencing together.

In moments like these, where culture meets cuisine at such high levels, you realize how profound dining can truly be—it’s more than sustenance; it’s about connection and community.

Conclusion: More Than Just Sushi

Katsu Nakaji’s omakase is an invitation into a world where every bite tells a story—a story filled with history, technique, love for ingredients, and most importantly, passion for sharing this ancient craft with new audiences around the globe.
Whether you’re a seasoned sushi lover or someone looking to expand your palate beyond traditional fare, visiting Ronin will change how you view sushi forever.

Photo by Quarantine Cravings on Unsplash