Nobu menu and prices reflect the artistry of Japanese-Peruvian cuisine, with signature dishes like black cod miso commanding premium costs. If you are planning a visit to any Nobu location worldwide, understanding the menu structure and price range helps you budget effectively and choose dishes that match your taste. This guide breaks down everything you need to know about Nobu’s offerings, from appetizers to desserts, with real price examples.
Nobu restaurants are known for their high-end dining experience, created by chef Nobu Matsuhisa. The menu blends traditional Japanese techniques with Peruvian ingredients, resulting in unique flavors. Prices vary by location, but the general range remains consistent across major cities like New York, London, Tokyo, and Dubai.
Nobu Menu And Prices: An Overview
The Nobu menu is divided into several sections: cold dishes, hot dishes, sushi and sashimi, signature dishes, and desserts. Each section offers a mix of classic and seasonal items. Prices typically start around $15 for small plates and go up to $100 or more for premium items like wagyu beef or whole lobster.
Below is a general price guide based on typical U.S. locations. Keep in mind that prices may be higher in cities like New York or London due to local costs.
- Cold Appetizers: $15–$35
- Hot Appetizers: $18–$45
- Sushi and Sashimi: $12–$60 per item
- Signature Dishes: $30–$120
- Desserts: $12–$25
- Omakase (chef’s choice): $150–$300 per person
Cold Appetizers And Small Plates
Nobu’s cold appetizers are light and refreshing, often featuring raw fish or vegetables. The most popular item here is the Yellowtail Jalapeño, which costs around $28. Another favorite is the Tiradito, a Peruvian-style sashimi with a spicy citrus sauce, priced at $24.
Other cold options include:
- Salmon Tartare with Caviar: $35
- Oysters with Nobu Sauce: $18 for half dozen
- Edamame with Truffle Salt: $15
- Seaweed Salad: $16
These dishes are meant for sharing, so order two or three for a table of four. Portions are modest but packed with flavor.
Hot Appetizers And Small Plates
The hot appetizer section includes tempura, grilled items, and soups. The Rock Shrimp Tempura with Creamy Spicy Sauce is a bestseller at $26. Another standout is the Miso-Marinated Black Cod, which also appears in the signature section but is available as a smaller appetizer portion for $32.
Hot appetizer prices range from $18 to $45. Examples include:
- Beef Tataki with Ponzu: $28
- Soft Shell Crab Tempura: $24
- Grilled Asparagus with Miso: $18
- Lobster Tempura with Wasabi Salsa: $45
If you are on a budget, the vegetable-based options like grilled asparagus or mushroom soup are affordable and satisfying.
Sushi And Sashimi Selection
Nobu’s sushi and sashimi are made with the freshest fish flown in daily. Prices depend on the type of fish and preparation. A single piece of nigiri sushi costs between $6 and $12. Sashimi plates start at $18 for a small assortment and go up to $60 for premium cuts like otoro (fatty tuna).
Popular sushi rolls include:
- Spicy Tuna Roll: $16
- Salmon Avocado Roll: $14
- Dragon Roll (eel and avocado): $22
- Lobster Roll with Truffle: $38
For a complete experience, order the Sushi Omakase, which includes 10 pieces of chef-selected nigiri and a hand roll. This costs around $80 per person.
Signature Dishes: The Heart Of Nobu Menu And Prices
Nobu’s signature dishes are what put the restaurant on the map. The most famous is the Black Cod Miso, which costs $45 for a full portion. This dish is marinated for three days in miso paste and sake, then grilled to perfection. It is sweet, savory, and melts in your mouth.
Other signature items include:
- Wagyu Beef with Truffle Sauce: $95
- Lobster with Wasabi Pepper Sauce: $85
- Whole Grilled Fish (seasonal): $60–$120
- Nobu’s New Style Sashimi: $38
These dishes are the most expensive on the menu, but they represent the pinnacle of Nobu’s culinary style. If you can only afford one signature dish, choose the Black Cod Miso—it is worth the price.
Main Courses And Large Plates
For a full meal, Nobu offers larger plates that serve one or two people. These include grilled meats, whole fish, and pasta dishes. Prices range from $40 to $120.
- Grilled Chilean Sea Bass: $52
- Filet Mignon with Miso: $65
- Lamb Chops with Spicy Miso: $48
- Nobu’s Seafood Pasta: $42
Most main courses come with a side of vegetables or rice. If you want extra sides, order the Miso Glazed Eggplant ($18) or Truffle Fried Rice ($28).
Desserts And Sweet Endings
Nobu’s dessert menu is smaller but equally refined. Prices are between $12 and $25. The most popular dessert is the Bento Box, which includes a trio of mini sweets like green tea cake, chocolate fondant, and sorbet. It costs $22.
Other dessert options:
- Miso Caramel Ice Cream: $14
- Yuzu Sorbet: $12
- Chocolate Lava Cake: $18
- Seasonal Fruit Plate: $16
Pair your dessert with a cup of matcha tea or a dessert wine for an extra treat.
Drinks And Beverages
Nobu has an extensive drink menu, including sake, wine, cocktails, and non-alcoholic options. Cocktails range from $18 to $25. The signature Nobu Martini, made with sake and vodka, costs $22. Sake prices vary widely, from $15 for a small carafe to $200 for a premium bottle.
Wine by the glass starts at $16, and bottles start at $60. If you want a non-alcoholic option, try the Yuzu Lemonade ($8) or Green Tea ($6).
Omakase Experience: Chef’s Choice Menu
For the ultimate Nobu experience, book the Omakase menu. This is a multi-course meal where the chef selects dishes based on seasonal ingredients. Prices start at $150 per person and can go up to $300, depending on the location and inclusions.
The Omakase typically includes:
- Cold appetizer (e.g., yellowtail jalapeño)
- Sashimi platter (5-7 pieces)
- Hot appetizer (e.g., rock shrimp tempura)
- Signature dish (e.g., black cod miso)
- Sushi course (6-8 pieces of nigiri)
- Dessert
This is a great option if you want to try a variety of dishes without deciding. It also offers better value compared to ordering individual items.
Lunch Menu And Prices
Nobu also offers a lunch menu that is more affordable than dinner. Lunch prices are about 20-30% lower than dinner prices. The lunch menu includes smaller portions of signature dishes and set meals.
Lunch set options:
- Bento Box: $35 (includes miso soup, salad, sushi, and a hot dish)
- Black Cod Lunch: $28 (smaller portion of black cod with rice)
- Sushi Lunch: $30 (8 pieces of nigiri with a roll)
Lunch is available Monday through Friday at most locations. It is a good way to experience Nobu without spending too much.
Price Variations By Location
Nobu menu and prices vary significantly by city. For example, the Black Cod Miso costs $45 in New York but may be $55 in London due to currency exchange and local taxes. In Tokyo, the same dish might be ¥5,000 (about $35).
Here is a rough comparison for the same items in different cities:
- New York: Black Cod Miso $45, Rock Shrimp $26
- London: Black Cod Miso £40, Rock Shrimp £22
- Tokyo: Black Cod Miso ¥5,000, Rock Shrimp ¥3,000
- Dubai: Black Cod Miso AED 200, Rock Shrimp AED 120
Always check the local menu online before visiting to avoid surprises. Prices also change during holidays or special events.
Tips For Saving Money At Nobu
Dining at Nobu can be expensive, but there are ways to reduce costs. First, go for lunch instead of dinner. Second, share dishes with your group—most plates are designed for sharing. Third, skip the expensive drinks and stick to water or tea.
Another tip is to order the Omakase if you want variety, as it often includes items that cost more individually. Finally, check for happy hour specials at some locations, which offer discounted appetizers and drinks from 5 PM to 7 PM.
Dietary Restrictions And Customization
Nobu accommodates dietary restrictions like gluten-free, vegetarian, and vegan diets. Gluten-free options include sashimi, grilled fish, and vegetable dishes. Vegetarian options are limited but include edamame, seaweed salad, and grilled vegetables.
Vegan diners can request modifications, such as removing dairy from dishes. The staff is trained to handle allergies, so inform them when you arrive. Note that many sauces contain soy or fish, so ask for alternatives.
Reservations And Wait Times
Nobu restaurants are popular, so reservations are recommended, especially for dinner. You can book online through their website or via OpenTable. Walk-ins are possible but may have long wait times, sometimes up to 2 hours.
For the Omakase experience, you must book at least a week in advance. Some locations also have a bar area where you can order small plates without a reservation.
What To Expect In Terms Of Service
Service at Nobu is professional and attentive. Staff are knowledgeable about the menu and can recommend dishes based on your preferences. The atmosphere is upscale but not stuffy, with dim lighting and modern decor.
Dress code varies by location but is generally smart casual. Avoid shorts and flip-flops for dinner. Lunch is more relaxed.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Much Does A Meal At Nobu Cost Per Person?
A meal at Nobu typically costs between $80 and $150 per person for dinner, including a drink and dessert. Lunch is cheaper, around $40 to $70 per person. The Omakase menu starts at $150 per person.
Is The Nobu Menu The Same In All Locations?
No, the Nobu menu varies by location. While signature dishes like black cod miso are available everywhere, each restaurant also offers local specialties and seasonal items. Prices also differ based on the city.
Can I Order Nobu Menu Items For Delivery?
Yes, many Nobu locations offer delivery through services like Uber Eats or DoorDash. The delivery menu is smaller than the in-restaurant menu, and prices may be slightly higher due to service fees.
What Is The Cheapest Item On The Nobu Menu?
The cheapest items are edamame ($15), seaweed salad ($16), and miso soup ($12). These are good options if you want to keep costs low. Lunch sets also offer good value.
Does Nobu Have A Dress Code?
Most Nobu locations have a smart casual dress code. For dinner, avoid athletic wear, flip-flops, and overly casual clothing. Lunch is more relaxed, but it is best to check the specific location’s policy online.
Final Thoughts On Nobu Menu And Prices
Nobu menu and prices reflect the quality and creativity of the food. While it is not a cheap dining option, the experience is memorable for special occasions or when you want to treat yourself. Focus on the signature dishes like black cod miso and rock shrimp tempura for the best value.
Plan ahead by checking the menu online and making a reservation. Share dishes with friends to try more items without overspending. Whether you are a first-time visitor or a regular, Nobu offers a unique blend of flavors that keeps people coming back.
Remember that prices can change, so always confirm with the restaurant before ordering. Enjoy your meal and the artistry that goes into every plate.