Meiji Experience of Japan in Oklahoma City: Omakase and à la Carte Sushi Near Midtown

Meiji Experience of Japan is a full-service sushi restaurant offering both omakase counter seating and traditional table dining, located in Oklahoma City with a focus on chef-directed nigiri and sashimi courses alongside cooked rolls and appetizers.

What Meiji Experience of Japan Actually Is

This is an omakase-first sushi establishment where the chef curates a seasonal progression of raw fish and rice rather than a self-directed menu order. The restaurant seats roughly 10 to 12 guests at a counter facing the chef during omakase service, with additional table seating for standard à la carte ordering. The counter experience is the draw here; diners sit directly across the chef and receive pieces one at a time, typically 15 to 20 pieces per seating. Unlike casual roll-focused sushi in Oklahoma City, Meiji prioritizes technique over novelty, emphasizing nigiri construction and fish quality rather than mayo-based specialty rolls.

Omakase and À la Carte Pricing

Omakase pricing runs approximately $65 to $75 per person for the standard progression, with premium options occasionally higher depending on market fish availability. À la carte nigiri typically costs $3 to $6 per piece, while rolls range from $6 to $14. Appetizers like edamame, gyoza, and miso soup fall in the $4 to $8 range. The omakase price fluctuates with seasonal fish availability; contact the restaurant directly to confirm current rates before booking.

À la carte ordering suits diners who want control over portions and pace, while omakase is designed for those willing to trust the chef's selection and can accommodate a 60 to 75-minute seated experience.

How Meiji Compares to Other Oklahoma City Sushi Bars

Oklahoma City has two distinct sushi categories: omakase-focused establishments like Meiji, and roll-heavy casual sushi shops. Meiji's counter experience contrasts sharply with larger volume-driven spots that emphasize variety through extensive roll menus and quick turnover. For direct comparison, places offering both counter and table service in the city tend toward longer wait times and less personalized interaction. Meiji's smaller counter limits walk-in availability, making reservations necessary for omakase, whereas casual sushi shops in midtown and bricktown accept walk-ins and prioritize speed. If you want nigiri-focused craftsmanship and dialogue with the chef, Meiji is the choice. If you prefer sitting down, ordering 10 specialty rolls, and leaving within an hour, you'll find faster service elsewhere.

Who This Restaurant Suits and Who It Does Not

Meiji works for diners with experience eating sushi, a budget for $70+ per person without alcohol, and patience for a seated experience. It suits special occasions, small groups (the counter seats 10 to 12), and anyone curious about fish sourcing and knife technique. It does not suit those seeking quick service, large parties, extensive cooked-food options, or a casual neighborhood spot. Parents with young children may find the long counter seating and pacing restrictive.

What the First Visit Involves

Arrive 10 to 15 minutes early for a counter reservation. You'll be seated directly at the chef's work surface. The chef will greet you, ask about allergies and dislikes, and begin plating nigiri one at a time. Eat each piece immediately after it's placed in front of you; do not accumulate pieces on a plate. The progression lasts roughly 60 to 75 minutes. If ordering à la carte at a table, order as you would at a standard restaurant, but expect higher prices for the same fish quality compared to casual spots. Bring cash or confirm card acceptance in advance.

Hours, Parking, and Logistics

Meiji operates on a dinner schedule only; lunch service has not been confirmed. Typical dinner hours run from 5 p.m. to 10 p.m., but confirm timing before visiting, as omakase service fills quickly and last seating may be significantly earlier. Street parking is available in the surrounding area; the restaurant does not operate a dedicated lot. Reservations are strongly recommended, especially for counter omakase. Call ahead or check for online booking options to secure a time.

Meiji Experience of Japan fills a gap in Oklahoma City's sushi landscape by prioritizing technique and fish quality over novelty rolls, making it the only dedicated omakase counter in the city where a chef's skill is the meal itself.