Think sushi and tacos don’t mix? Omakase Por Favor in Lincoln, California, is here to prove you wrong. This cozy spot, run by Guy’s Grocery Games winner Chef Jeana Marie Pecha, slashes culinary rulebooks with Japanese-Mexican dishes like tuna tartare tostadas and miso-butter oysters. Part dinner, part adventure—no passport required.
What’s in a Name?
Omakase translates to “I’ll leave it up to you” in Japanese, and at Omakase Por Favor, that’s exactly what diners are encouraged to do—trust the chef. And trust us, you’ll want to. Chef Jeana Marie Pecha, the mastermind behind this innovative concept, brings her years of experience and globe-trotting culinary education to every plate. From her time studying fine dining in Mexico to her stints at top-tier restaurants like Alinea in Chicago and Bottega Napa Valley, Chef Jeana has crafted a menu that feels both deeply personal and wildly adventurous.
A Menu That Keeps You Guessing
The menu at Omakase Por Favor is a living, breathing entity. It changes frequently—sometimes multiple times a week—based on seasonal ingredients and Chef Jeana’s inspirations. Here’s a sneak peek at some of the standout dishes that have wowed diners:
- Oysters on the Half Shell: These aren’t your average oysters. Think umami-packed sauces and unexpected toppings like unagi (eel) that elevate each bite.
- Ceviche Mixto Bowl: Fresh mahi-mahi spiced just right, served with a citrusy zing to make your taste buds dance.
- Barbacoa Soba Noodles: A surprising yet harmonious blend of tender barbacoa beef with delicate soba noodles.
- Tuna Tartare Tostada: Imagine sashimi meets tostada—a crispy base layered with fresh tuna, caramelized soy sauce, pomegranate seeds, and basil.
- Broiled Oysters: Perfectly cooked with a miso butter glaze that balances richness with a hint of sweetness.
For those who really want to dive into the experience, the omakase tasting menu is the way to go. It’s a multi-course journey where every dish is a surprise. One night might feature scallops from Hokkaido in coconut agua chile; another might include roasted sweet corn tuna tartare or even an octopus salad topped with toasted hazelnuts.
The Vibe: Casual Elegance
Walking into Omakase Por Favor feels like stepping into a chic yet unpretentious space where every detail has been thoughtfully curated. The restaurant is small but cozy, with an open kitchen concept that places the chefs at center stage. Whether you’re seated at the bar watching your meal come to life or enjoying the patio during Sunday brunch (complete with live music), the atmosphere strikes the perfect balance between relaxed and refined.
Speaking of brunch—don’t miss their $16 bottomless mimosas or micheladas if you visit on a Sunday morning. And if you’re lucky enough to catch live performances by local talent like CJ Washington, you’re in for an extra treat.
Why You’ll Want to Keep Coming Back
One visit isn’t enough to capture everything Omakase Por Favor offers. The ever-changing menu means there’s always something new to try, and their commitment to quality and sustainability ensures every bite is worth savoring. The seafood is sourced fresh—oysters are shipped from Washington twice weekly—and local farms supply many vegetables and herbs.
The restaurant also caters to all kinds of palates. Feeling adventurous? Let Chef Jeana challenge you with bold flavors and unexpected combinations. Prefer something more familiar? The technically trained staff will guide you toward comforting yet elevated dishes.
And let’s not forget about drinks! From expertly paired sake flights to refreshing cocktails like the Yuzu Lemon Drop or Juniper Mocktail, there’s something for everyone.
Specials That Keep It Interesting
If you’re looking for an excuse (not that you need one) to visit on a Monday, their $2 oyster deal is hard to beat. Pair it with one of their craft cocktails or sparkling house-made water for an indulgent yet affordable start to your week.
Meet Chef Jeana Marie Pecha
Chef Jeana isn’t just running a restaurant; she’s creating an experience rooted in her passion for food and culture. Her journey—from winning Guy’s Grocery Games at just 20 years old to opening one of Los Angeles’ premier brunch spots—has culminated in this dream project back home in Placer County. Her expertise shines through in every dish, making Omakase Por Favor a meal and an event.
Plan Your Visit
Omakase Por Favor is located at 640 Twelve Bridges Drive in Lincoln, CA. They’re open from 11 AM to 8 PM daily (except Wednesdays), making it easy to plan lunch or dinner around your schedule. Reservations are recommended, especially if you want to snag a seat at the bar for the full omakase experience.
Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just looking for an excuse to treat yourself, Omakase Por Favor delivers on all fronts—flavor, creativity, and ambiance. So go ahead: trust the chef… por favor!
Sources: omakaseporfavor.com, yelp.com, Omakase Por Favor Facebook Page, Omakase Por Favor Instagram Page
Header Image Source: omakaseporfavor.com