By Michael Satterfield - 06/17/2024
Located in the picturesque setting of the Hyatt Regency Lost Pines Resort and Spa, Sushi by Scratch Restaurants has quickly garnered a reputation as a must-visit culinary destination in Bastrop, Texas. This intimate omakase experience, created by acclaimed chefs Phillip Frankland Lee and Margarita Kallas-Lee, offers a unique fusion of traditional Japanese techniques and innovative flavors. The restaurant's secluded location, nestled in the serene pine forest, adds an air of exclusivity and tranquility to the dining experience.
Sushi by Scratch is set within the expansive and luxurious Lost Pines Resort, a destination worth visiting. The resort features a three-mile tree-lined drive that sets the tone for a relaxing and upscale retreat. Upon arrival, guests are greeted with a complimentary cocktail in the resort's elegant lobby, which offers activities such as shuffleboard and scenic views of the pine forest. The dining room is small and intimate, seating fewer than a dozen guests, which ensures personalized attention and a cozy atmosphere.
The heart of Sushi by Scratch is its omakase menu, which typically features 16 to 18 courses. The experience is designed to journey through various flavors and textures, starting with classic sushi items and moving into more inventive and surprising dishes. Each course is meticulously crafted, with ingredients that are often torched or topped with unique garnishes like beet mustard, lemon juice, and quinoa. This innovative approach, described as "new-wave nigiri," blends traditional sushi craftsmanship with modern culinary creativity.
A standout feature of the omakase is its dynamic pacing. The chefs ensure that guests are never too hungry or too full, with each course following a rhythm that maintains anticipation and enjoyment throughout the meal. The menu includes high-quality seafood such as hamachi, toro, and kanpachi, alongside luxurious items like wagyu and bone marrow, which are prepared with such finesse that even typically divisive ingredients like hotate (scallops) are transformed into memorable bites.
Sushi by Scratch has received high praise from notable personalities, including Joe Rogan, who has called it the "best sushi on earth" and "the best sushi of all time." His endorsements have undoubtedly contributed to the restaurant's growing popularity and reservation demand. The restaurant's innovative approach and exceptional quality have also earned it accolades and a spot among the best omakase experiences in Texas. After experiencing it myself, I agree it is one of the best sushi experiences I have had in the world.
Sushi by Scratch at the Lost Pines ResortLost Pines Resort is more than just a meal; it’s an immersive culinary experience that blends the artistry of sushi with the serene beauty of its Texas setting. Whether you are a seasoned sushi aficionado or new to the world of omakase, this restaurant offers a memorable and unique dining journey that stands out in the Texas culinary landscape. Despite its high demand and occasional logistical hiccups, the overall experience promises to be a gastronomic delight that justifies both the drive and the expense.
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