Omakase Dress Code and Seating Rules

Most omakase counters in Hong Kong have no formal dress code. Smart casual is right almost everywhere. The rules that matter more are about scent, timing, children and seat assignment.

The rules in brief. Dress: smart casual. Scent: no strong perfume or cologne. Timing: arrive 10 minutes early. Seats: the restaurant assigns them. Children: ask first. Phones: silent, calls outside.

What to wear

Smart casual — a collared shirt or neat top, trousers, a dress or skirt — works at every counter we list. Hotel counters such as Sushi Shikon feel dressier; shorts and flip-flops are best kept for belt chains. Avoid bulky coats and bags, as counter space is tight.

Why perfume matters

Sushi is about delicate smell and taste. Strong perfume, cologne or scented hand cream interferes with the fish for you and everyone beside you. Many counters ask guests to avoid it.

Seating

The restaurant seats you. Seats in front of the head chef are often for regulars or larger bookings. If you want a specific seat, ask when you book, not on arrival. Most counters seat eight to twelve in a row, so a group of six may not sit together; see sushi restaurants for large groups.

Best seat for a first visit: ask for a seat where you can see the chef's hands. Watching the knife work is half the experience.

Children

Many counters set a minimum age or ask that children eat the full menu. Young children should also avoid raw fish on food safety advice. Ask before booking; see family friendly sushi restaurants.

Phones and photos

Keep your phone on silent and take calls outside. A quick photo of a piece is usually fine, but ask before photographing the chef, and never let a piece sit while you shoot.

Before you arrive: check the sitting time · share allergies in writing · confirm the headcount · read the cancellation terms. See how to book a sushi restaurant.

Late arrival and no-shows are charged. Premium counters often take a card guarantee and may charge part or all of the menu for late cancellations.

Common questions

Is there a dress code at omakase?

Usually no formal code. Smart casual works.

Can I wear perfume?

Best avoided.

Can I choose my seat?

Ask when booking; the restaurant decides.

Where else can I look?

See omakase etiquette and what is omakase.

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.