New Beverage Director Jeff Banks Introduces Beverage Program that Stays True to the Omakase Experience
Omakase Table, Atlanta’s hottest sushi spot, just got better with an esteemed mixologist now crafting delicious cocktails to complement the dining experience. Veteran bartender Jeff Banks has joined the West Marietta Street restaurant as beverage director and brings 17 years of experience to the position, which pairs nicely with chef Leonard Yu’s sushi mastery. The new beverage program officially launches on Wednesday, July 19.
“Omakase translated in English means ‘I leave it up to you,’ and this opportunity to work with chef Yu gives me a little bit more creative freedom to do what I like,” explains Banks. “With each course, it is chef Yu’s choice and in the same vein, my distinct choice to pair the beverage perfectly to the menu.”
Banks is more than ready to take on the challenge of working alongside a career chef. His resume boasts long stints at upscale establishments such as The Luminary, Cielo Steakhouse, Krog Street Market, and Graft Restaurant. The 36-year-old also has won several prestigious mixology competitions where he has been honored as the most imaginative bartender.
Omakase Table will offer distinct beers and wines, and of course, sake. But Banks is most excited about rolling out his signature cocktail menu. The drinks are designed in such a way that the patron will not just dine but partake in a beverage experience. Beverages will be delivered in European Riedel glasses, accompanied by custom-cut ice, bringing the perfect chill to guests’ choice of drink. He crafts perfect pairings to accompany Yu’s masterpieces, while never compromising on his aesthetic values.
“Simple and clean,” Banks says, emphasizing the word “clean.” “Some people like vintage glassware with a lot of etching, but to stay true to the Omakase experience, our glasses will have simple lines that will not distract you from the cocktail itself.”
Banks is playing his cards close to the chest right now, revealing only two drinks that will land on the menu: Highball, featuring Iwai 45 Japanese whisky, and Petite Prelude, a classic Japanese cocktail with a vermouth base. The ingredients are simple, without flourish or pomp, crafting a love for creating genuine experiences. It is this love that led Banks to partner with Yu.
“There is magic here at Omakase Table. Chef Yu loves what he does,” Banks explains. “He is genuine, and that shows a lot in his food, and I think that’s what drew me to work with him in the first place.”
Great food deserves great drinks, and that is exactly what Yu and Banks are committed to providing. They are excited to show Atlanta what they can do as sushi and mixology artisans.
Prior to the launch of the new beverage program, Omakase Table allowed guests to bring their own beverages with no corkage fees. This will continue until Sunday, July 23 ,to allow guests already holding reservations to adjust.
Omakase Table is located at 788 West Marietta Street in Atlanta. The intimate eatery serves a 20-course omakase experience Tuesday-Sunday from 5-8 p.m. Reservations can be made online. Learn more at omakasetableatl.com.
