A private omakase where the whole counter belongs to your group: that is Sushi Sainjo (스시 사인조), a sushi restaurant in Gangnam, Seoul, that seats only four guests per seating. The name literally means “group of four” in Korean. It is run by Chef Lee Dae-sung, a veteran of Seoul’s sushi scene. This review covers my dinner in March 2026 with three friends, with photos of the full course, plus the price and how to book.
This review is adapted from a visit by Revitguide reviewer 호미식 (Homisik), who rated it 4.5 out of 5. Read the original Korean review on Revitguide.
Sushi Sainjo Private Omakase at a Glance
| Sushi Sainjo | 스시 사인조 (formerly Sushi Ryo, 스시료) |
| Chef | Lee Dae-sung, formerly head chef at Sushi Yamamoto, Sushi Tatsu and Sushi Yoake |
| Cuisine | Edomae sushi, private omakase |
| Address | 1F, 14 Hakdong-ro 38-gil, Gangnam-gu, Seoul (서울 강남구 학동로38길 14, Nonhyeon-dong) |
| Nearest station | Hakdong Station (Line 7), a short walk |
| Seats | 4 per seating; private hire for up to 6 |
| Hours | Dinner only, two seatings between 17:00 and 22:00. Closed Wednesday and Sunday. |
| Price | Dinner omakase ₩300,000 per person (2026) |
| Booking | CatchTable or by phone (+82 10-3284-2629) |
| Map | Open in Naver Map |
Who Is Chef Lee Dae-sung?
Chef Lee Dae-sung has worked as a head chef for more than 20 years at well-known Seoul sushi counters, including Sushi Yamamoto, Sushi Tatsu and Sushi Yoake. Revitguide describes him as one of Korea’s first-generation omakase chefs. Later, after running Sushi Ryo, he renamed the counter Sushi Sainjo and turned it into a private omakase for just four guests at a time.
Why a Private Omakase Felt Different
Just like its name, this was a restaurant you use as a group of four. From the moment I walked in, I felt that this beautiful space had been prepared only for us, and that put me in a good mood right away.
Most people who go to omakase restaurants have good manners, so I had never really felt the need for a private space. However, once I experienced it myself, the satisfaction of having the room to ourselves was much bigger than I expected.
In particular, a big reason the space felt so special was Chef Lee Dae-sung, who led the mood of the evening wonderfully.
My Private Omakase Dinner at Sushi Sainjo (March 2026)
First of all, the food was colorful and delicate, almost like fine dining. It gave the impression that each dish was the most delicious result after a great deal of thought and many attempts.
A squid opener and the smoked takuan signature
From the very start, the squid woke up my appetite. Next, the signature smoked takuan (pickled radish) was also especially memorable. Sushi Sainjo serves it with cheese, and regulars often name it as one of the dishes that keep them coming back.
Sashimi and small dishes
In addition, it was my first time trying white wasabi, and its soft aroma and texture went very well with the sashimi.
Nigiri, including thinly sliced gizzard shad
Gizzard shad (jeon-eo, kohada in Japanese) is usually served as one large piece. Here, though, the chef sliced it thin, which made the texture stand out even more. Overall, the course was so complete that I felt not a single dish fell short.
Tamago, green tea and citrus
A Chef Who Guides the Private Omakase
On Revitguide’s wiki, I had once read that Chef Lee Dae-sung can comfortably guide everyone, from omakase beginners to regulars. After experiencing it myself, I think that description fits him very well. For example, he led the flow of the meal naturally and kindly answered our questions. At the same time, he respected our space so that each of us could enjoy the moment in our own way.
Moreover, we heard how hard it is to get good ingredients, and how much time and effort goes into even a simple-looking dish. As a result, the food felt even deeper and more delicious.
Sushi Sainjo Price and Booking Tips (2026)
- Price: The dinner omakase costs ₩300,000 per person. Drinks are extra.
- Group size: Each seating takes only four guests, so this private omakase works best for a group of four. Private hire is possible for up to six.
- Booking: Reserve through CatchTable or by phone. With only four seats per seating, popular dates fill up early.
- Closed: Wednesday and Sunday. Check CatchTable for the exact seating times.
Is This Private Omakase Worth It?
I visited as a group of four with three friends, and I think we had the best possible experience. To sum up, in a word, it was a truly happy dining experience. Laughter from the conversation and the mood, and laughter from the excellent food, filled the room together. My rating: 4.5 out of 5.
Looking for more sushi and fine dining in Seoul? Read our review of Sushi Saito Juyon, our guide to Michelin restaurants in Seoul, and our review of Gaggen, a One Michelin Star kaiseki restaurant.
FAQ
What is a private omakase?
A private omakase is a chef’s choice sushi course where your group has the whole counter to itself. At Sushi Sainjo, each seating takes only four guests.
How much does Sushi Sainjo cost?
The dinner omakase costs ₩300,000 per person in 2026, before drinks.
How do I book Sushi Sainjo?
Book through CatchTable or call +82 10-3284-2629.
Can I go to Sushi Sainjo with fewer than four people?
The counter is built around groups of four, so ask the restaurant about smaller parties when you book.
Where is Sushi Sainjo?
It is at 14 Hakdong-ro 38-gil in Nonhyeon-dong, Gangnam-gu, a short walk from Hakdong Station on Line 7.
We checked prices, hours and booking information in November 2026, and they can change. Check CatchTable or Naver Map before you go.