I passed by the closed shutters of Omu before it opened, and it immediately caught my attention. Even if the only thing I could see was the sign outside. I looked them up in IG as one does, and when they announced their opening date, I noted it in my calendar. I was their first customer on the day of their opening, and my visit confirmed my suspicions: this place is excellent.

Omu+Barcelona — *Omu, Barcelona. Photo © Barcelona Food Experience.*

The shop is tiny, but it’s magical. The decoration is pretty, and the little table, seats, and plants outside are adorable. There is also a small table for two inside. The idea here is mainly takeaway, and delivery, too.

The team behind Omu is a couple, Katia and Marc. Katia is the owner of famed Ekubo, a very popular Japanese restaurant, and Marc is a sommelier. They are so friendly and will make you feel a part of the Omu family from your first visit.

The menu at Omu is focused on onigiris. They have 12 (!) different ones on the menu, and also seasonal and temporary ones. The onigiris are big and packed with filling. But there is also a large variety of hosomakis, futomakis, and sashimi, all prepared with high-quality ingredients. They also have a few sides such as miso soup, Japanese salads, tsukemono (pickled vegetables), and sushi rice. I’m working my way through the menu, and my favorites so far have been the eel, the chili crab, and the avocado kizami wasabi onigiris. I can’t wait to try them all.

Their lunch menu is an excellent deal: for 10€, you get two onigiris of the day, a bowl of miso soup or a salad, and a kobachi, which is an aperitif that varies daily. Every time you go, there is something new and interesting; the kitchen here is very creative. All of the different options are well marked on the menu in terms of intolerances, and there are plenty of options should you be vegan or vegetarian. You can also get your hands on Japanese craft beer and sake.

I am delighted that such a unique concept has opened in Barcelona. And even better: it’s only a few minutes from my place. I admit, I have become somewhat of an addict..!

Omu, Carrer de Biada, 1, 08012 Barcelona (Gracia)

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