Jose Garces is a James Beard Award-winning Iron Chef, renowned restaurateur, author, entrepreneur, and food innovator. He is recognized as a leading culinary authority, particularly for his expertise in Spanish and...
Okatshe is a Japanese izakaya and sushi bar located in Downtown Allentown, Pennsylvania, conceptualized by Iron Chef Jose Garces. It offers a modern chic and intimate yet fun ambiance, contributing to the city's arts and entertainment scene. The restaurant is known for its small plate, tapas-style servings, allowing diners to sample a variety of dishes, alongside a selection of sake and whisky.
Customers generally praise Okatshe for its delicious Japanese and Americanized Asian-inspired food, excellent bar service, and inviting atmosphere. Many highlight the quality of sashimi, scallops, and short ribs, noting the generous portion sizes for sashimi and the tenderness of the short ribs. The drink menu, including the signature Lion's Head cocktail, also receives positive feedback. While the happy hour and late-night menu are appreciated, some find the food can be heavy or greasy, and the kakigori dessert is often recommended to be skipped due to its texture and sweetness. Parking can be a challenge, and the pricing is considered upscale.
Additional Details
Okatshe offers a unique dining experience with its small plate, tapas-style approach to Japanese and Asian-inspired cuisine. It features a diverse menu that includes sushi, sashimi, and various cooked dishes, complemented by a selection of sake and whisky. The restaurant aims to provide a lively and fun environment in Downtown Allentown.
Okatshe operates Wednesday through Sunday, with the kitchen closing at 12 a.m. and the bar at 1 a.m. It is ideal for dinner or late-night dining, especially to take advantage of their happy hour and late-night menu offerings. Reservations are accepted, and walk-ins are also welcome.
5
This is a top tier place in Allentown for all ages, Camille (server) and Phill (Manager) were so mindful and patient, super great service with a smile on their faces all the time. And their prices are totally affordable. We got a lot of things, even ordered the same thing twice and I did not go over 170 at all. If you ordered something and did no like it, they will take it off your tab.
Their chef is an absolute legend when it comes to cooking! The steak (perfect medium rare) literally melted in my mouth, the knife they gave me was totally useless for the steak because it was so smooth and tender, amazing flavor for everything. Their sticky spice ribs were the best ribs I tried in a restaurant in years. When you enter this restaurant forget everything you knew about food because they’re about to rewire your brain. Their Bao Buns were super tender and tasty, there is no word to describe this, truly an experience. If you’re looking into good food and good prices, this place is totally a gem to find in Allentown PA. Totally recommend.
Okatashe is one of my absolute favorites! The vibe is unmatched and it truly adds to the arts and entertainment scene in Downtown Allentown. I love that they offer both happy hour and a late-night menu, such a win. The ramen is a go-to for me, and you honestly can’t go wrong with any of their sushi options. A must-visit when you’re downtown Allentown! 🍜✨
My wife took me here for my birthday and it was amazing. Our server made fantastic recommendations and I don't think I can eat sushi anywhere else ever again. For those who choose quality over quantity and want experiences this is your place. The wagu roll and nigiri deluxe are must gets. Can't wait to come back.
Josiahs was the BEST server. Explained the menu, gave us pro tips, honest reviews, and of course exceptional service. We wanted to hang out with him by the end of our meal. The food was amazing!!! My husband said mmmmmmm 12 times in the first 30 minutes. Highly recommend ordering more than you think you need, to share with the table and try it all. Worth every penny. The atmosphere will transport you beyond the Lehigh Valley. Good music and the Roxy next door is the icing on the cake.
Wow wow wow, for being the new kid in the block this restaurant packs flavor, freshness and atmosphere that is second to none. Let me tell your the Chef Garces & team is really out did themselves on this one.
Let's switch gears and talk about food. As a pretty big sushi snob the fish program at Okatshe is TOP tier. The tuna, rich, good fat and great flavor. The salmon buttery, rich and melts. The hamachi was an absolute show stopper, just stand out among the crowd.
Drinks where strong but balanced in flavor they absolutely were not an afterthought but more of a supporting character.
Okatshe is a must try! 10/10 would recommend to everyone. I will be back soon!
