Super 7: Japanese (and Japanese-ish) Restaurants
Ain't nothing better than great sushi, so we sourced all that and a few more situational options to satisfy your palate
Ogawa
The most OMG & show-stopping Omakase in America (trust us), if you are ready to venture into the different regions of Japan sans flight, well - this is your solution. With two seating options per-night and at $350 pp, Ogawa is nearly sold every single night. With his diplomatic ties, its co-owner Alvaro Perez imports all of the meats that are exclusive to his restaurant. And the Michelin destination’s menu varies weekly. But, I hope you’re privy to their refined broth - a blend of red miso paste, dashi stock made with bonito flakes and fish bones which vary depending on their weekly imports.
Pro Tip: Do the pairing as they have a beer and sake sommelier. It’s worth breaking the bank over. @ogawamiami // 7223 NW 2nd Ave, Miami
Wabi Sabi
Nestled in an unsuspecting 70’s-style building you are likely to see the director of Nobu supping for lunch or dinner at the high-tops. Proof that simple and simply fresh can be so right - Wabi’s menu is easily navigable. Whether you build-a-bowl based on your cravings and diet or take that 40++ hand-roll with Wagyu & Uni - the crunchy unparalleled seaweed seals the deal.
Pro Tip: Don’t miss the fatty tuna hand roll as it melts on your tongue. As does the Japanese uni should it be in their daily delivery. @wabisabimiami // 851 NE 79th Street Miami
Sushi Yasu Tanaka
Omakase lovers take note - Yasu is a local legend for a quickie experience. In a corner at a food-hall in the Design District, you can score a $59 10-piece experience. Yasu’s choice, which means whatever was flown in from Japan bi-weekly. Somehow, Tanaka’s aesthetic paired with an assigned direction to specifically eat the nigiri - well, each purposeful bite is better than the next.
Pro Tip: You can book him at home to come over and handle business for a special occasion - or just because! @sushiyasutanaka // 140 NE 39th St #241, Miami
Sérêvène
In the lobby of the historical Hotel Greystone is a hidden gem for those who know. Under the helm of Pawan Pinisetti, Sérêvène’s menu is not strictly Japanese. But the flavors from the Far East and France are scattered throughout each dish including the Lobster Uni Alfredo. Yep, sounds weird but it's heaven in a dish that includes butter poached lobster, bucatini al dente, parmesan crust, domestic caviar and uni!
Pro Tip: Vegans take note - this will be your go-to. Robust in flavors, the tofu steak with garbanzos, local cooked tomatoes mint, cilantro and a basmati pilaf that has the chefs at the Setai walking over for after their shift. @serevenemiamibeach // 1920 Collins Avenue, Miami Beach
Sushi Bichi
Beach-front, literally - Sushi Bichi is ideal for casual excellence. Their menu boasts a range of global cuisines - Japanese (obviously) to Peruvian. And unlike many Peruvian dishes, these XL corn’s are MSG-free! You cannot go wrong with their rolls, omakase, the stone-cooked Japanese Wagyu… or even the whimsical Bichi Burger. It’s the best in Miami!
Pro Tip: The torched fatty nigiri is the way to go for those who love a battery yet smoky profile. Upon entering your mouth, make sure you flip it fish-down on your tongue and don’t be surprised if the experience ends with a light moan. And a second order en-route. @sushibichi // 7330 Ocean Terrace CU5, Miami Beach
Belly Fish
Want sushi in the comfort of your home? Well, thanks to Belly Fish, now you can enjoy a modern Tuna Tostada that tastes as if it was just flown in from Mexico City. Prepared on a crispy corn tortilla, the fresh - thin slices of soy marinated tuna (which thank god are not salty) are topped with chipotle aioli, avocado, soy-lime marinated tuna, crispy leeks and a healthy dose of cilantro.
Pro Tip: Order the Salmon Lover Combo as it comes with torched Faroe Island nigiri! @eatbellyfish
Toni’s Sushi Bar
For the real OG’s of Miami Beach, Toni’s has been the jam since 1987. Finally renovated, don't miss their Japanese classic Ohitashi - a spinach dish with peanut sauce or their Tuna and Avocado salad that comes with a light ginger dressing. Ask for a side of sushi rice, ginger, wasabi and Tamari, and a cold sake served up in Bamboo.
Pro Tip: Save room for dessert and request their green tea mochi, but ask for it to be extra frozen. @tonissushi // 1208 Washington Avenue, Miami Beach