We are thrilled to extend our heartfelt congratulations to Rebel Omakase for earning a prestigious Michelin star in August 2024! This recognition is a testament to the exceptional culinary artistry and dedication that we experienced during our visit last year. Below is the review we wrote in July 2023, capturing the unforgettable dining experience that has now been rightfully honored.

What is Omakase?

In Japanese, ‘omakase’ loosely translates to “chef’s choice.” This means that when you dine at an omakase-style restaurant, the chefs will craft a multi-course dining experience, usually 10+ courses. Expect a mix of sushi, sashimi, one-shot soups, and grilled meats like wagyu. The breadth of an omakase experience spans both hot and cold dishes, includes various textures on the plate, and really does take guests on a journey of the senses.

Making a Reservation at Rebel Omakase

The first thing you should know about Rebel Omakase in Laguna Beach is that the restaurant has no website, and this sushi spot is a little unconventional in the way it takes reservations and communicates with its guests.

Reservations are required, but you can only make a dinner reservation at Rebel Omakase by texting the restaurant. Phone calls are not returned, and they do not accept walk-ins.

There are two seating options, one at 5 pm and one at 7:30 pm. We selected the 5 pm reservation and, not knowing what to expect, arrived 15 minutes early. The doors opened promptly at 5 pm, not a minute before, and not a minute after.

The Experience

Like many high-end Omakase restaurants, the dining space is small and intimate. There is seating for just a dozen or so guests at the sushi bar and four additional tables in the restaurant. We were surprised that the decor and ambiance weren’t a little more refined, given the chefs’ skill levels and the overall experience they are providing with the food, presentation, and service. 

The ambiance might not be Rebel Omakase’s strongest quality, but this Laguna Beach sushi restaurant really shines where it matters: with its food. Before we jump into our experience, we should mention that if you go to an omakase restaurant, always ask to sit at the counter. Dining at the counter allows you to watch the chefs prepare each dish and see the intricate techniques they use to turn humble pieces of fresh fish into mini masterpieces for your palate.

The Food & Service

Once we were seated at the counter and our drink orders were taken, the magic began to happen. If you can believe it, 20 courses were served in a two-hour period. It was course after course of unbelievable one to two-bite dishes, each more amazing than the last. Here is  a partial list of what we enjoyed during our evening:

• Miso soup with wagyu
• Octopus leg with yam puree
• Sweet shrimp with baby bluefin tuna and crisp Asian pear
• Striped Jack 
• Bonito
• Skimp-steamed monkfish with liver pate
• Egg custard with squid uni
• Dungeness crab egg drop soup
• Toto with gold shavings
• Vanilla ice cream with truffle shavings

Our server described each course in detail, and the service was some of the best we have. Ever experienced it, by far. Here is an example of what we mean:

First, your water glass or other beverages are always kept full at Rebel Omakase. If you get up to go to the restroom, the server was promptly at your chair to pull it out and seat you. This was true for both the men and women dining. Everything was so intuitive. They watched but didn’t hover and made sure that you had what you needed before you even realized you needed it. Just top-notch.

After about the third course, we noticed that they were pulling our empty plates from our right side. However, when the three of us were turned toward each other in deep conversation, the waiter removed the empty plate this time from the left, so they did not pull from across the group and break up our conversation. We honestly have not experienced that consideration before and were very impressed.  

When you hear diners say it’s the little things that make a big difference in a dining experience, this is what they’re talking about.

The end of the meal was also pretty special. When the plates are cleared, the server will take a Polaroid picture of your group and provide it as a gift of remembrance. This was such a nice touch, especially if you are celebrating a special occasion. 

Corkage & Cost

Dining at Rebel Omakase is $260 per person, and this does not include drinks, tax, or tips. The prices on the menu for sake, wine, and beer are about 3x retail costs, which is pretty standard for a restaurant wine list. Unfortunately, the restaurant does not allow you to bring in your own bottle. No corkage means you’re kind of stuck with the restaurant’s offerings.

Closing Thoughts

Overall, the dining experience at Rebel Omakase was amazing but pricey. We loved and appreciated our entire meal, from the intuitive service to the detailed plating and the quality of the fresh fish. Although we often indulge in pricey dinners, we probably won’t be back to Rebel Omakase, but we do encourage you to experience this restaurant at least once. True omakase is a real treat for the senses.