Free markets produce Neko Hana Omakase AYCE and consumers are better off

One of the more unique concepts I have seen recently is all you can eat (AYCE) omakase. Since the name of this blog has the word “finance” in it, but I rarely write about it, I thought that this post would be the perfect place to do it; because Neko Hana Omakase AYCE, is the perfect example of how consumers benefit from a well functioning free market.

Free markets result in people chasing profit. Profit chasing leads to competition. Competition results in innovation. In order to stick out from the other sushi place down the street, and attract customers, a new sushi restaurateur needs to have better food, better prices, better rewards programs better service, better marketing, or in this case, a better concept (or a combo of some or all f the aforementioned things).

Who benefits from this? Us! The consumer.

Which brings me back to Neko Hana. Something like this could only be the result of free markets, and an enterprising business owner thinking about how to get more customers by offering a new, unique concept.

Right now, its new so its best to call ahead and make a reservation. Upon arrival, there is another restaurant with the same name beside it (not sure what the relation is), but look for this sign:

…and when you walk in you are greeted by this:

How does AYCE omakase work? Basically, you have a choice between two menus. One is AYCE and one is not. basically, they are the same menu with either offering you a 15 course omakase, but with the AYCE, you can order unlimited nigiri at the end.

I was a bit worried after reading some reviews that the place was so new that the kitchen would be slow. However, this was not the case. It looks like the place has figured it out, and it was obvious from the efficient pace of service that the kitchen was well prepped. Courses come out basically on a tray with a couple dishes on each. There are 3 tray services, then the omakase, then dessert. The first tray, brought the first 4 course on the menu:

The salad was refreshing with an acidic sauce (likely ponzu based), the chawanmushi was good, the sashimi was fresh, but the highlight was the handroll. Very well seasoned seaweed, paired with sushi rice and fatty blue fin tuna.

The next tray featured six pieces of nigiri sushi. I enjoyed every single one with standouts being the wagyu and the toro.

The last tray featured a delicious futomaki which they recommend you have with the clam soup. It was a delicious and comforting combo; like a Japanese version of soup and sandwich, but with tons of umami. The shrimp tartar was fresh and the scallop and abalone was very savory with the garlic butter sauce.

After this, I was full, but I could not pass up ordering more nigiri:

Then a cheesecake for dessert:

Overall, service was efficient, and our server was very friendly. This is the most unique, well priced, and delicious omakase you will find anywhere. I can’t wait to go back and highly recommend you go before it becomes viral and impossible to get a seat!