When a restaurant’s sign reads “Today’s Specials: Trust Me”, you know you’re in for something special. The New York outpost of this cultish sushi chain is located behind a bakery on an unassuming street in the Upper East Side—where you’ll just have to trust the omakase-style service (the Chef will make all of the selections for your meal based on the freshest fish of the day). The same is true for the Honolulu location—where sitting at the pared-down sushi bar guarantees you’ll have to give up the reins and open your mouth (not to mention your mind) to some of the best sushi on the island. Foregoing the menu in either location is a delight for adventurous palates, as regular customers love the 5-star quality of the ever-changing sushi selection—even if the décor is so minimal, it seems nearly an afterthought. But with bites of baby albacore, Spanish mackerel, live scallops, and yellowtail belly so tasty, you’ll hardly notice the lack of decor. —Alexis Korman

Sushi Sasabune 

401 E 73rd Street New York, NY 10021: (212) 249-8583  

1417 S King St, Honolulu, HI 96814 (808) 947-3800?

Fun Fact: The restaurant is closed on Sunday, as fish markets are also closed on this day.

Insider Tip: Adopting a “know before you go” strategy is key to dining at this secret sushi haven.

Cost: Prices change daily, but expect to spend about $150 per person on sushi alone.

Photo By: Cindy Woo