Silvers Omakase is a dead serious omakase sushi restaurant helmed by Lennon Silvers Lee, a white guy from Van Nuys, the San Fernando Valley neighborhood where I happened to be born. Before opening Silvers, Chef Lennon opened several restaurants with his brother, including Sushi by Scratch in Montecito, one of the best places you can eat in Santa Barbara. Scratch is now a national empire, with dozens of restaurants in several states. Lennon branched off to do something just as ambitious, in a different direction: this beautiful, Michelin-starred, ten-seat sushi bar, where everything is honed and polished to his exacting standards. We booked Silvers for an early Valentine's Day dinner, a luxurious Thursday date night. Our reservation was for the second seating, at 8:15, but we were informed there would be champagne in the waiting room should we decide to arrive at 8:00. We had babysitting, so we were there at 8:00 sharp to claim our welcome drinks. The waiting room was comfortable, and we enjoyed hanging out and meeting the other diners. When Chef Lennon was ready, we were ushered in and led to our seats, which were designated with name cards. The chef introduced himself and his small, mighty staff. They were a wonderful team, and they took great care of us throughout the meal. Seems worth noting, too, that they all seemed to like each other and admire Lennon. The menu was 100% omakase, so the only decision we had to make was what to drink with our sushi. We went for the standard sake pairing, and this was excellent, a nice variety of sakes, each chosen to accompany two or three courses. The pours were about three ounces each, but we quickly learned that they'd get topped up if we finished them early. The food was outstanding, and I enjoyed hearing Lennon talk about where it all came from with such obvious passion and expertise. I guess most of the fish is sourced from Japan, though he gets some of it local, plus a lot of his produce. His rice comes from a very specific place in Japan that supplies no other restaurant in America, and Lennon and his team prepares it through a laborious-sounding process. The resulting rice was genuinely superb. But first, we enjoyed a few sashimi dishes. Kurodai in a citrus broth with bitter soy and a touch of yuzu kosho, then kanpachi brushed with soy sauce with a dollop of fresh wasabi on the side. Hotate came with daikon sprouts and navel orange zest in a light house dashi. Then we had kelp-cured buri cooked briefly in shabu broth, served with daikon and shiso flowers. At this point, we were given house pickled ginger then taken on a nigiri journey. We had madai, kinmedai, shima-aji, nodoguro, and saba--so much beautiful, delicious fish. Then we had three superb pieces of tuna: akami, chutoro, and otoro, in order of decadence. Finally, a uni hand roll with shiso, one of my favorites of the night, and sugar-dusted Japanese Amaou strawberries for dessert. This was a lovely omakase experience. Elegant, pared down, and traditional, just premium fish and rice, meticulously prepared by Chef Lennon. If you want top tier sushi in Santa Barbara, Silvers Omakase is hard to beat. read more

Definitely recommend trying omakase once in your life if you haven't before. We were in town in Santa Barbara for our anniversary and wanted to try something different and the price here was just right. It was a group of 8 of us and the staff made us each feel welcomed and made conversation with everyone. The dishes were each very fresh, didn't have a bad dish and that's coming from someone who loves seafood/sushi read more

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Saw this omakase restaurant in michelin guide. Have 2 seatings time. Only have 10 seats on the chef table. Reservation: via tock. Cc and prepaid required. Parking: free street parking When you arrived, give your eyes to adjust. The lobby area was dark. The host checked your party in, confirming each name and the order of you want them to be seated. They also greeted you with complimentary champagne or non alcoholic beverages. Then we were escorted to the dining area where all chefs were waiting . They personalized your birthday wish on the card. They will ask you whether you have any allergies so they can adjust their food. Friendly staff and chefs. All the fish were locally sourced. The sushi rice was ok, i was hoping better, more chewy type. All the fish were room temperature. Hmmm... Flavour wise is not what I normally expect to taste. Need more seasoned and flavour. Everything is kinda bland. Everyone in our party agreed on the taste. At the end, they give you a little gift of yuzu tea packet wrapped in black satin cloth. Once you were done, you and your party escorted to the side door as they prepare for the next seating . read more

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The atmosphere, decor, food, presentation, conversation, information, and the entire team were phenomenal. You ring a private bell to enter the space. You're greeted by a dark yet sufficiently lit waiting area with a very cool art piece facing the dining room door. You are offered a sparkling wine from Jaime, drink distributor extraordinaire, while you wait, and then welcomed to take a seat in a lounge waiting area. Once all guests have arrived, you're escorted into the dining room and greeted by the chefs and their assistant. Chef Lennon, owner and operator, works alongside his right hand chef to prepare sushi & nigiri from the freshest fish (sourced both locally & from Japan) and prepared with their unique milled in-house rice brought in from Japan from a family Chef Lennon connected with to onboard as his rice supplier. The food was beautiful to the eye and a flavor sensation to the palate. There was so much going on with each plating, I could never capture the passion the chef puts into his craft. Just know that you should 100% make it a priority to enjoy a meal here when you're in Santa Barbara. read more

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What a wonderful experience! My husband and I tried silvers in celebration of our anniversary and it was so much fun. Fantastic service, great fish, everything was hand crafted with care. Even the dessert was fantastic and really highlights the rice they use which they mill in house. The sushi bar only seats 8-10 so it's a small and intimate setting, you can have a nice quiet and relaxing conversation. I would love to go back one of the next times I'm in town! read more

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Truthfully, this place deserves another Michelin star. I've been to at least one restaurant that had a huge discrepancy in star ratings - Silvers Omakase is 10/10! The food was so good, I went back a second night Service is amazing, chefs are knowledgeable and friendly. This is honestly the best meal I've ever had. Sake pairing is SO WORTH IT (and if you're blessed to have the premium - it's worth the price!!). It's a super lean team of 5 running this place which is all the more impressive. Please, do yourself a favor and stop in if you can! Team - thank you for an amazing experience ‍ read more

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The restaurant has a very nice ambiance. The first seating was at 5 PM; however, everyone had to wait for a party of three who arrived almost 20 minutes late. As a result, we felt somewhat rushed at the end to accommodate the next seating. The service was excellent, which I expected from a Michelin-star restaurant. The food, however, was just average. It was somewhat bland. The entire menu consisted only of sashimi and nigiri, and we were expecting more creativity and innovation in the dishes. Overall, it was a good experience, but it did not feel like Michelin-star level. read more

Talk about a once in the lifetime experience. Lennon is not only a master of his craft but a damn savant when it comes to rice. As good as the fish was, the rice was the star. WHICH IS SAYING ALOT !! Because the fish was absolutely SHOW stopping. As far as service goes, what can be said for a former Michelin chef ? Jaime is a gem and an incredible orator as well. Would give this place a million stars if I could ! Life hack: bring Chef Lennon Pokemon cards read more

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Pre-birthday celebration dinner at @silvers.omakase was nothing short of delectable. The best sushi we've ever had, coupled with top tier customer service. Upscale and elegant, intimate yet friendly, an experience you need to have. Highly recommend Thank you, Chef! read more

Silvers Omakase - Japanese Near Me - Santa Barbara, California

started out with a welcome drink can be alcoholic/non alcoholic. the place is very classy and moody, loved the vibe. chefs were very friendly and talkative. only bar seating. as for the omakase, found that it was ok. did not get much flavor or texture on the fish eaten. great place as an introductory to omakase! read more

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One of the best food experiences I've ever had. Atmosphere was awesome. Felt like I made new friends because the staff is so great! Perfect for a special occasion, or any occasion. read more

Loved the moody ambiance and the sake pairings. Chefs were engaging and knowledgeable. Sake pairings and the bartender who also greets you were a 10. However.... that's where the positives end for us. The omakase was bland. Lots of chewy clear type fish... mackerel and the like. One woman next to me said "I feel like this needs more salt or something" at the very same time I was wondering to myself if it'd be rude to ask for soy sauce (I decided against it). We LOVE Sushi Bar Montecito and think it's worth every penny. I have to say Silvers pales in comparison in my book, unfortunately and is just as expensive. Every bite at Sushi Bar is incredible and Silvers is forgettable and not worth the price. Both my husband and I agreed we will not be back. read more

We had a great dining experience, from beginning to end. Courteous greeting, impeccable service from the whole team, and incredible sushi. Chef Lennon Silvers was friendly, engaging, and you can tell he is passionate about his work. I appreciated the explanation of where the ingredients are sourced from and the beautiful ceramicware for all the courses. My boyfriend had the sake pairing, which was thoughtfully curated. I had high expectations heading into this dinner and I can say they were exceeded. For guests that are unhappy that they can not order extra sushi, even if they pay, this is not a made-to-order restaurant. I highly recommend Silvers Omakase for when you want to treat yourself to some amazing sushi. read more

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Very disappointed with this place. The sushi was very good, served with warm rice, but not any better than the sushi I have in Phoenix from Sushi Friend. The ambience is unspectacular and their foyer is almost seedy. Service was friendly and efficient, but I upgraded our sake flight and my wife had the wine flight, and received little explanation of what we were being served. Honestly, I could not tell one sake from the other. All in it was a $1200 tab with a value of less than half that. read more

Everything was perfect!! The interior was definitely very cool servers made us feel like VIPs and the FOOD omg ... the FOOD. Gotta say Silvers is my fav omakase place on SB. read more

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We had a delightful evening from start to finish. The evening began in a cozy art-filled lounge area, with glasses of sparkling wine. Everyone is then invited into the 10 seater sushi bar, which is beautifully decorated with a custom mural. Ask Chef Lennon about it. Enough about the atmosphere, let's get to the food and drink. It's extraordinary, full stop. One course is better than the next, the room gets very quiet when each course is served followed by soft moans. Not kidding. I don't drink, but I was told the wine list was fantastic and I was offered a choice of non alcoholic craft beverages. Very nice touch. Each course has a story. I was impressed by the thoughtfulness and inventiveness of the selections. You can feel the passion of chef Lennon and his crew. I highly recommend Silvers Omakaze. read more

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This is not our first Omakase Experience, but it definitely was one to remember. We really enjoyed the greeting room, with the glass of champagne to start. The sushi experience was amazing. Each selection of fish was great, my wife did the sake pairing and said she never experienced such different and amazing sakes. The rice is out of this world. We can't wait to go back!! read more

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Truly a treat and Michelin star well-deserved. As is common for me when I travel, I open the Michelin app and book every Michelin-starred restaurant possible and so found myself at Silvers Omakase. What a treat -- pricing is still reasonable and the food and service are phenomenal. I would return again and again if we lived in town. Everything from the champagne greeting to the setting, to the food and wine. We opted for the wine pairing vs sake and while I wish we got one of each vs two wine pairings, Jaime's choices were so good I'm not sure I would have wanted to share. The local and French wines were fantastic, each one unique with each course. I've never had a Chardonnay with so much complexity and basically a never ending finish. I highly recommend silvers omakase to anyone that enjoys sushi -- the fresh local and Japanese seafood (fish, uni and crab tonight) and flavors blew my mind. read more

It's difficult to describe this place without overused superlatives. If you come here expecting to be impressed with delicious, beautiful and often surprising foods, this is a place that will delight you. I want all of these things when seeking the best food experiences. But, topping my list of hopeful experiences pertains to the people who create and serve the food. For me, I want to feel connected to the restauranteurs - the people who share their experience creating the food. I don't want a precious experience. I want a relatable experience. The team here exceed all of my expectations in this regard. Everything - all together - is extraordinary at Slivers. I'm 55, have traveled the word and eaten great food in great places. This makes my list of top 3 food experiences. read more

Silvers Omakase - Japanese Near Me - Santa Barbara, California

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Yum!!!! Our dinner at Silvers Omakase last Saturday for my wife's birthday was truly unforgettable, and we're already looking forward to our next visit! We celebrated with friends and family, and even our adventurous six-year-old, who is a big fan of Silvers. The staff was absolutely wonderful--not only were they professional and attentive, but they were so kind and positive with our daughter, making the entire experience feel joyful and inclusive. Every bite of food was extraordinary, with flavors that were both bold and refined. Silvers made the night magical, and we can't wait to come back! read more

The food - unbelievable The service - unrivaled Getting a reservation? Quick and easy The ambiance is unlike anywhere I've ever been! The freshness, atmosphere, and even the people we sat around were so happy to be there! This was definitely a night to be remembered, and I'll be coming here EVERY time that I come to Santa Barbara! read more

Silvers Omakase - Japanese Near Me - Santa Barbara, California

Took a trip out to Santa Barbara to visit Silvers Omakase and it was the best meal I've had this year. They import most of their fish straight from Japan even down to the uni which was so sweet and creamy. The dinner was a 14 course omakase/tasting menu style experience in a small intimate environment and took almost 2 hours from start to finish. Every seat has a great view of the chefs prepping each delicious bite. I loved even though this is considered "fine dining" the feel was definitely sushi bar. Lively conversation between the chefs and other diners along with the beer and sake made the vibes just right. If you're looking for a fun place to celebrate a special occasion or just want to splurge for a unique experience I think this should be on top of anyones list when you visit Santa Barbara. I travelled all the way from Los Angeles with great expectations and Chef Lennon and crew did not disappoint. Hope you get to try some soon read more

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I don't even know where to start. The attention to detail was nothing short of perfection. The art work in the waiting room, the art behind the sushi bar which incorporates the mountains locally and Japan coming together. The crystal saké glasses were stunning. From a food standpoint I'm still in awe. I've been fortunate to have been served by a couple of the greatest sushi chefs on the planet and this experience (which is what it was) is bar far the most amazing meal I have eaten to date! There is methodology, history and meaning behind every ingredient that goes into this young man's menu. I am counting down the days until I can revisit this divine experience again. read more

Silvers Omakase - Japanese Near Me - Santa Barbara, California

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Such incredible food. Everything used for the dinner was incredibly beautiful and harmonious. You can tell the entire staff cares so much about the sourcing, processing, presentation, and experience of every dish and drink. Incredible experience overall read more

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I was fortunate enough to attend the opening night of Silvers Omakase and I was absolutely blown away from the moment I set foot inside the waiting lounge. Stepping inside I was greeted with this amazing aroma of roses along with some very unique artwork and furniture to match the atmosphere. Upon being seated, my party was introduced to the extremely knowledgeable team behind the counter that made this night very special. After checking out their extensive alcohol menu I decided to try this Japanese White Yuzu ale that was just so refreshing and tasty. Now, onto the most important part of the night, the food! Each course had something unique about it, from the high quality ingredients used, to the carefully crafted presentation, it was definitely an experience like no other! Some of my favorite courses that stood out were the Hamachi, Aged Caviar and the Akamutsu! The Hamachi had two different pieces of yellowtail that were a fantastic opener to the courses! The Aged Caviar had such a rush of flavors, it's definitely an unforgettable dish! The Akamutsu had this sort of toasted, buttery taste to it that made it out to be one of the most unique pieces of sushi I have ever had the pleasure of tasting! It's safe to say that this has been one of the most memorable and delicious experiences I have ever had at an omakase restaurant and hands down the best sushi around! I'd also like to mention the amazing rice that has been procured directly from Japan, it is truly one of a kind and of the highest quality! Thank you Chef Lennon and your team of specialists that made this night unforgettable! read more

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Unjustified premium price $$$$, for sushi that is average and bland. This was my first visit, and sadly, it will be my last. The restaurant's decor is nice, but the overall experience was disappointing. The chef/ owner came across as arrogant with lack of customer service and gave off an uncomfortable sense of *CULTURAL APPROPRIATION* read more

I've been following Chef Lennon from his last few restaurants, and I will continue to follow him wherever he goes. Now that he has his own restaurant I am so excited to finally see his creativity explode. The place itself is just... wow. The decor is something I haven't seen anywhere else. It's clear he's put a ton of thought into making sure every little detail adds to the vibe. It's not just eating; it's like being part of an out of this world culinary experience. And then there's Jaime, the sommelier. The drinks? Spot on! I did the sake pairing, and he matched every dish with the perfect sake. They definitely had a little chat and decided to bring out the best in each other. Honestly, the whole night was just one big highlight. The food, the drinks, the atmosphere - it all felt really special. It's clear these guys aren't messing around. They're all about creating something unique and memorable. If you're into amazing food and the best vibes, you've gotta check this place out. It's not just dinner, it's a whole experience. Can't wait to go back and see what Chef Lennon and the team come up with next! read more

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While the taste of dinner is still lingering I would like to say that this place is an experience! The ambiance and dedication to detail exceeds expectations before you get your first bite. Every course is thought out with dedication and perfection. Have sushi here and you won't like your local spot any more. Thank you for everything. read more

I have not actually used yelp in quite awhile, I was looking for food and decided to go and leave reviews for some of my most memorable meals I've had at establishments to better inform potential guests of what to experience. This one hits home though as I worked the back kitchen prepping fish for Sushi Hanada in Port Hueneme owned by Yukihito Hanada, a first generation master from Japan who even helped train the legendary Nobu Matsuhisa so I guess you can say I'm a stickler for things done right when it comes to sushi. I had been to Sushi Bar in Goleta when Lennon was a head chef there for his brother which was also fantastic! When I heard he was opening his own spot relatively close to where I live as well, I was ecstatic. Eagerly awaiting the opening I snagged a reservation the second day of opening. Hidden in the funk zone with a secretive small front door greeted by a reservation only sign I walked in to be greeted by their hostess, I was given a complementary drink and seated in their waiting area as the prior service was finishing up. The ambience in that room was dim lit and mysterious. The movement arose to be seated in their intimate 8-10 room single bar, to me this is the best way to experience eating an omakase meal as you can see the preparation and care taken to create your dishes as well as get to interact and soak in information about what you are about to eat. They have a la cart drinks as well as my recommended pairings of wine or sake that change for every other course of the journey of a meal. The sommelier is intelligent as well as kind, he was ecstatic to present the different pairings along with their tasting notes and how they go with what you're about to eat. I sat in front of Lennon, I happened to message him quite a bit prior due to having mutual friends. Some people may have felt it would be very formal to where you can't be yourself there. But I started going back and forth with Lennon and everyone started chiming in. His presence and personality is amazing. Don't hesitate to crack a joke or just talk to him, he's a normal dude just like the rest of us (happens to be an absolute wizard with food) The whole service ended up being everyone in there feeling like we're at friend reunion cookout conversing and laughing all while being served some of the best dishes we've all ever had. I won't talk too much about the food as it revolves with the seasons. There's not much to say besides it being life changing being able to taste these notes of flavors produced at the absolute highest level of care. I absolutely love how he stuck to roots and takes a traditional edo approach to the nigiri by just serving it as a less is more to focus on how well it was prepared. Their self milled rice, the fish, fresh wasabi and soy brushed on top. Just how it's meant to be to let the flavors of the fish shine and not be muddled by excess of toppings or flavors. The uni rice was amazing as well as the wagyu. Everything about this place is what true omakase is about. I recommend this place to anyone and everyone I can. I have nothing but good things to say about Silvers! read more

Silvers Omakase - Unparalleled. Wish all the best to Lennon and his team!!! - Japanese Near Me - Santa Barbara, California

Michelin starred chef Lennon, formerly of Sushi by Scratch, has finally opened his own restaurant after a long wait. You enter the private waiting room through a discrete entrance and are greeted by a host who offers a champagne welcome. Once the chefs are ready, you're welcomed into the dining room where the real magic begins. Chef Lennon and his team have created an incredible experience with an incredible menu and an impressive list of sakes and wines. For those who choose to not drink, there is also a non-alcoholic pairing available. The food is incredible with a focus on experimentation and seasonality; no two days will be the same, even in the same week. A truly fantastic experience and I cannot wait to go again. Valet parking is available on Fridays and Saturdays. read more

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Dedicated, passionate staff serving seasonal offerings with thoughtful layered flavors and textures. It seems that no detail is too small for this crew; in cuisine, in service and decor. From top to bottom, this is omakase at its best. read more

Silvers Omakase - Crystal was next level beautiful. It's the details for me. - Japanese Near Me - Santa Barbara, California

Been to Silvers twice, and while the menus were completely different, the quality, service, the flavors, and the overall experience were the all top notch and very memorable both times. Grateful to be able to experience such a special place. read more

Had the pleasure of being the last seating on the opening night and it was a fantastic experience. The waiting area had a great vibe with beautiful artwork and good music. My party and I all shared a toast of champagne in the waiting area prior to getting seated. I was then left with the choice of what to pair with my meal. I chose to go with the non-alcoholic pairing after consulting with Jaime. It did not disappoint. Derek was very attentive and took care of all the little things. The service here is truly outstanding. I did not have to ask for anything. From the ingredients to the water glass, Chef Lennon and Chef Nate knew all the details. They shared them all as we were guided through the omakase. Each bite was exquisite. By the end of it I felt more cultured along with a gentle fullness. I cannot wait to return! read more

I had the opportunity and honor of visiting Chef Lennons master piece of a restaurant. From the moment you walk into the front door to the moment you leave everything was taken care of.Every dish was absolutely delectable. All of the touches from the dishes to the glasses to the stories and explanations have been thoughtfully curated and planned. His team is amazing from Derrick to Nate to Jamie if I spelled that right. I don't think the night could have been better. I highly recommend this restaurant to anyone looking for a wonderful sushi experience. I wish this team all the best. read more

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If you're looking for a meal to remember in Santa Barbara, look no further. Without a doubt the most impressive omakase in town. Chefs Lennon and Nate are professional, knowledgeable, and true masters of their craft. Jaime, the incredible bartender will take care of all your drinking needs and is always so fun to chat with! Keep up the great work y'all, I see stars in your future. read more

Epic meal- closest thing to actually being in Japan I have experienced this side of the pacific. 2 words that stand out in my mind are fresh & quality. Will continue to dine at Silvers Omakase read more

Meh...could be better and just feels like a wealthy individual's pet project. The experience was lack and sushi/food was average. Probably won't go again unless I must. read more

An absolutely exquisite dining experience. There was thought put into every detail and each plate dazzled the tastebuds. The textures and flavors made for art on a plate. And even the plates were stunning and had a story. It was such a beautiful evening we cannot wait to go back. The service was perfection. We're thrilled to have this experience in town! read more

Silvers is an incredible sushi experience. Took my wife for a special date night and she was totally blown away. We went with the sake pairing which proved to be an excellent choice. I've always enjoyed sake, but this was on a whole different level. I had not been to an omakase style restaurant previously, but this place really exceeded expectations. The chef and staff were all very hospitable and so enjoyable to interact with. We will definitely be back for another special occasion. read more

A delightful early evening. Lovely greeting upon entering by hostess. Food interesting and delicious and we especially appreciated the explanations of each bite. The chefs are educators as well as food experts. Welcomed questions for those of us not terribly knowledgeable about Japanese food. First class without pretensions. Thank you! Anne and Josh read more