5 /5 Joseph Paparella: Omo by Jont is truly a bucket-list dining experience. From the moment you search for the discreet entrance on Park Ave to the final bite from their “Magic Box,” the entire evening feels special and intentional.
We celebrated my wife’s birthday here, and the staff went above and beyond to make her feel recognized, from greeting her by name to surprising us with small touches throughout the night. The evening began in a chic, softly lit lounge with hip-hop in the background, Henriot Champagne in hand, and a procession of beautifully crafted snacks. Highlights included a cloudlike pork steam bun, wagyu tartare croustade with truffle dashi, and an add-on of Japanese barracuda with Kaluga caviar that was buttery and unforgettable.
At the chef’s counter, the atmosphere shifted to serene and almost meditative as we watched the kitchen team work in complete harmony. Courses were plated with precision, each paired with thoughtful wines. Standouts included shrimp with chilled tomato consommé and soba, rich uni with snow crab and corn, truffle-scented Hokkaido rice with Dungeness crab, and our favorite dish of the night: Rohan duck glazed with miso-orange alongside foie-gras-stuffed morel. The pairings, from Kabinett Riesling to Amarone, were spot on.
Desserts were just as memorable: a playful strawberry trio, an indulgent slice of Japanese Crown Melon, and a wooden “Magic Box” of confections to finish. Every detail, from the purse stand to the service style, made this evening feel curated and intimate.
Omo by Jont is not just dinner, it’s a journey. A Michelin-starred treasure and, without question, one of the most extraordinary dining experiences we’ve ever had.
