The Mission's sushi game has officially been upped, with today's opening of Sasaki bringing the heat. Chef Masa Sasaki earned a Michelin star at nearby Maruya, before consulting at other sushi spots like Omakase and Delage. Now he's stepping out as owner, bringing an intimate, 12-seat edomae omakase experience to the neighborhood.
Sasaki and partner Takanori Wada (Hamano) created a prix fixe sushi menu around $200 per person, and it will center purely on edomae sushi. Sasaki is emphasizing simplicity, focusing on traditional sushi, and using intricate methods of smoking, curing, and marinating for a meal with four to five appetizers, about 14 pieces of nigiri sushi, dessert, and tea. There will be no fried food, kobe beef, or any other meat on the menu — just fish and vegetables — as well as only champagne and sake to drink. Expect that simplicity and reserved style to continue through to service.
The buildout was done by Joinery Structures, and focuses on a large wooden sushi bar with inset lighting. Custom plateware was made by Jin Yamanaka, who has also created delicate serving vessels for Saison, Manresa, and Benu.
Sasaki offers two seatings, Tuesday through Saturday at 5:45 p.m. and 8:30 p.m. Reservations can be made by calling the restaurant.