Sushi Nakazawa

When it opened in 2013, Sushi Nakazawa served a 20-course omakase for $150. Now, this upscale West Village sushi spot serves a 21-course meal for $180. Over the span of a decade, that’s a pretty tame price increase (less than inflation, actually). Given the proliferation of other super-high-end sushi spots and the ever-increasing price tags at places like Shuko and Masa, Sushi Nakazawa is a pretty good deal. It’s still expensive, obviously, but the fine-dining-style service is top-notch, and the pieces of sushi are simple and near-perfect. 

The calm, gallery-like black-and-white space has two chef’s counters, and there’s also a small dining room where you can book a table. (The dining room omakase is $30 less, but you should still sit at a counter.) Wherever you wind up, you’ll eat a procession of gently dressed nigiri, like sea scallops with a dab of yuzu kosho and torched king salmon that tastes like buttery popcorn. The selection of fish isn’t especially innovative, but the subtle flavors are so good that you’ll find yourself talking in a whisper. If you’re thinking about coming for your next birthday, do it. This is still a special place, and you get your money’s worth.