Kaiseki vs Omakase: What Is the Difference?

Both are multi-course Japanese meals, but they are built differently. Omakase means "chef's choice" and, at a sushi counter, centres on nigiri. Kaiseki is a formal seasonal meal with a set structure of cooked and raw courses. Kappo sits between them.

The difference in one line. Omakase: chef's choice, usually sushi-led, at a counter. Kaiseki: formal seasonal courses — grilled, simmered, steamed, raw — often at tables or in private rooms. Kappo: kaiseki-style cooking served at a counter, chef in front of you.

Omakase

"Omakase" is a way of ordering, not a cuisine. At a sushi counter, the chef chooses the sequence from the day's fish: a few appetisers, then 8 to 15 pieces of nigiri, a roll, tamago, soup and dessert. The focus is on rice, fish and the chef's hands. See what is omakase.

Kaiseki

Kaiseki follows a traditional order of courses — often an appetiser, soup, sashimi, a grilled dish, a simmered dish, rice with pickles and dessert. It celebrates the season through ingredients, plates and presentation. Sushi may appear, but it is not the point.

Kappo

Kappo brings kaiseki-style cooking to a counter, so you watch the chef cut, grill and simmer. In Hong Kong, Zuicho at The Mercer in Sheung Wan holds a MICHELIN star for kappo omakase, mixing raw and cooked courses. See the best sushi in Sheung Wan.

Omakase and kaiseki compared

Centre: omakase centres on sushi; kaiseki on seasonal cooked courses. Seating: omakase at a counter; kaiseki often at tables or private rooms. Pace: omakase piece by piece; kaiseki course by course. Raw fish: most of an omakase; one course in kaiseki. Best for: omakase for sushi lovers; kaiseki for those who prefer cooked food, groups or a formal occasion.

Pregnant or avoiding raw fish? Kaiseki or kappo is usually the easier choice, as most courses are cooked. Tell the restaurant at booking.

How to choose: want to watch sushi made? Book omakase. Want variety and cooked dishes? Book kaiseki or kappo. Celebrating with family or a group? A kaiseki private room is often easier than a counter.

Names on menus vary. Some restaurants use "omakase" for any chef's-choice menu, including kaiseki-style meals. Read what the menu includes rather than relying on the label.

Common questions

Is kaiseki more expensive than omakase?

Not always. Both range from mid-priced to very expensive.

Which is better for a first visit?

Omakase if you love sushi; kaiseki if you prefer variety.

Is kappo the same as omakase?

Kappo is counter dining with cooked courses; it is often served as omakase.

Where else can I look?

See Edomae style omakase explained and beyond sushi: Japanese dishes explained.

Compiled by our editorial team from restaurant information, current venue listings, diner reviews and published menus, retrieved September 2026. Reviews are individual opinions. Prices exclude the 10% service charge unless stated and change without notice. No restaurant paid for inclusion.