Sushi by Bou Expands to the East Village With Rock ‘n’ Roll–Inspired Concept
- 4 days ago
- 3 min read
Sushi by Bou, the acclaimed omakase concept celebrated for its intimate counters, premium fish, and vibrant speakeasy-style atmosphere, is turning up the volume in downtown Manhattan. The brand debuted its newest location in the East Village in February 2026, marking its 10th location in New York State and another milestone in its rapid national expansion.
Known for redefining the traditional sushi counter, Sushi by Bou pairs indulgent, chef-driven omakase with an approachable, high-energy dining experience. Expert sushi chefs guide guests through a meticulously curated, timed tasting featuring sustainably sourced seafood selected at peak freshness. The result is an elevated yet accessible omakase experience that balances precision, personality, and playfulness.
A Rock ‘n’ Roll Take on Omakase
The East Village outpost introduces a bold new aesthetic to the brand’s growing portfolio. Inspired by the neighborhood’s storied music culture, the space channels a rock ‘n’ roll spirit with immersive design elements and interactive features.
The venue, hidden behind a store front in NYC speakeasy fashion, includes a 12-seat sushi counter for intimate omakase service, an intimate lounge and bar area, a private Karaoke Room complete with stage and banquette seating, a themed “Wayne’s World”–inspired lounge blending nostalgic pop culture with rock-era kitsch.
“Rock and roll has always been part of who I am,” said Richie Romero, Chief Hospitality Officer of Sushi by Bou. “Having the opportunity to bring that spirit to the East Village venue felt like the perfect next chapter of our speakeasy world – and one of the highlights of my career. It is omakase — with a backstage pass. Same quality, different volume.”
Signature Tasting Experiences
Guests at the East Village location are able to choose from the brand’s signature, chef-guided tasting menus:
Signature Omakase (12 Courses) – An exclusive Edomae-style progression of seasonal bites showcasing expert technique and pristine fish.
Bougie Omakase (17 Courses) – A decadent journey featuring seasonal imported selections, creative flavor compositions, and a celebratory Kanpai toast.
Bou Reserve Omakase (17 Courses) – The brand’s most luxurious offering, highlighted by indulgent upgrades such as a Caviar Bump, Foie Gras snow, Wagyu enhancement, Bone Marrow, and Truffle.
In addition, the Signature Selection menu features 12 nigiri pieces and handrolls, including Hamachi (yellowtail), Maguro (chopped tuna), Gindara (miso black cod), and Wagyuni (a surf ‘n’ turf–inspired bite), among other standout offerings.
Rooted in NYC, Expanding Nationwide
Founded by restaurateurs Michael Sinensky and Erika London alongside hospitality leader Richie Romero under Simplevenue Hospitality Group, Sushi by Bou has grown from a single concept into a nationally recognized brand with locations across New York City and major markets nationwide. The East Village opening reflects the company’s continued commitment to transforming underutilized spaces into dynamic culinary destinations.
“We are proud to continue broadening our footprint in our first and largest market — New York City,” said Erika London, CEO and Co-Founder of Simplevenue and Sushi by Bou. “While we are thrilled with the expansion of our concept to new markets across the country, it’s always fulfilling to deepen our roots in the city that started it all.”
Sushi by Bou is redefining the sushi experience nationwide with high-end omakase served in fun, speakeasy-style settings. Omakase, meaning “I’ll leave it up to you,” invites guests to surrender to the chef’s mastery through a curated tasting of sustainable seafood. Each timed experience is thoughtfully balanced in flavor, texture, and presentation, served at intimate 4- to 12-seat counters. Guests can complement their meal with handcrafted cocktails, premium sake, and rare Japanese whiskies.
Simplevenue is a New York City–based hospitality group led by Founders Michael Sinensky and Erika London alongside Partner and Chief Hospitality Officer Richie Romero. With more than 15 years of experience, the group specializes in curating underutilized spaces with distinctive food and beverage concepts. Its flagship brand, Sushi by Bou, and sister concepts continue to expand nationwide, connecting experiential dining with world-class venues.
Reservations for Sushi by Bou East Village are available via sushibybou.com and OpenTable.
