NYC has no shortage of places to dine, some of which are obviously more expensive than others, but our minds were kind of blown when we found out that a meal at this one will run you almost four figures per person.
Masa, located at Columbus Circle and holding three Michelin Stars–a feat that is quite rare–is the most expensive Michelin Star restaurant in the city.
Masa was first established in 2004 by renowned Japanese Chef Masayoshi Takayama, who grew up working for his family’s fish market in a town of Tochigi Prefecture, Japan. With otherwise simple décor–and, surprisingly, a casual dress code–the intentionally sparse space acts as a blank canvas on which the food is allowed the proper space to shine.
Earning its third Michelin Star in 2009, the restaurant has the unique distinction of being the first Japanese restaurant in the country to receive three Michelin Stars.
Masa offers two options for dining–the standard, cheaper Omakase option, and the Hinoki Counter Experience–but just because the Omakase option is cheaper definitely doesn’t mean it’s cheap.
The restaurant’s Omakase option, which offers seating at a table in Masa’s intimate dining room, costs $750 per person not including beverage and tax.
The more expensive Hinoki Counter Experience, which is more of an immersive experience, costs a whopping $950 per person. With this two-hour option guests are guaranteed seating at the restaurant’s carefully crafted sushi counter with one of their highly skilled sushi chefs.
In both options the courses build on build on seasonal properties, utilized only in their freshest most delicious state.
The Michelin Guide writes:
To taste what may be the continent’s best sushi, experience the contemplative and very exclusive ceremony of Chef Masa Takayama’s omakase…Attention to detail is unsurpassed and at times it may seem like a bit much, but a reverential spirit is part of your meal here.
You can learn more and make reservations here.
📍 10 Columbus Circle – Time Warner Center, 4th Floor