What
Sushi by Bou Jersey City is officially open and if you don’t have the bank account for a $300 omakase — this is where you want to come. Omakase is a formal, menu-less form of Japanese dining wherein the chef chooses your meal/dishes (versus choosing a la carte). New York omakase can cost upwards of $300/pp. Sushi by Bou, however, manages to keep pricing at just $50/pp, but with a few trade-offs. First, you must finish your meal in 60 minutes. Also, it’s more of an informal omakase experience (which is great if you’ve never experienced omakase or if you’re looking for a more laid back version of it). Jersey City Upfront recently attended the media preview (food/drink were complimentary) and here’s the scoop.
Interior
Sushi by Bou is located inside the back room at Ani Ramen. (Formerly Luigi’s ice cream). The room has its own pop-up cocktail bar, a waiting area/lounge, and an 8-seat sushi counter. There are also a few Japanese lanterns and flowers that help give the room a different vibe from Ani Ramen. So you really feel like you’re in a different restaurant. Albeit, a tiny one.
The Menu
Sushi by Bou Jersey City features the same menu found at its New York locations. It includes o-toro (fatty tuna), uni (sea urchin), wagyuni (wagyu and sea urchin), and ikura (salmon roe), to name a few. The cocktail menu is also similar with signature cocktails like the Yuzu Honey Bee and Shiso Southsider.
We Loved
A $50 omakase experience is pretty much unheard of. (By comparison, even DomoDomo charges $80 for their omakase). And even though you pay less, the quality, presentation, and taste of the fish is way above what you’re paying. The chefs are friendly and explain every cut of fish as they serve it. Although your meal is limited to an hour — it doesn’t feel rushed. We also like that they’re open till 1am Fridays and Saturdays.
Could Be Better
The waiting area/couch is awkwardly tiny, so if you get there early be prepared to shuffle around as you wait for the sushi counter to clear. Also, keep in mind that this isn’t a traditional omakase experience. There’s hip-hop playing in the background and a little stunt sushi action going on. We still like it, but just something to keep in mind if you’re looking for a quieter experience. On a side note — we’d love to see a lunch option. (Maybe a timed 30-minute lunch?) Currently, Sushi by Bou Jersey City is only open from 5pm.
Final Take
Sushi by Bou Jersey City is a fun new addition to the downtown dining scene. We love the vibe, the food, and the fact that they’re open late on weekends. If you happen to walk out just a tad bit hungry — there’s always late night eats available at Ani Ramen.
Sushi by Bou | 218A Newark Avenue
