By: Charlotte Trattner By: Charlotte Trattner | June 7, 2023 | Food & Drink, Eat, Guide,
Miami has no shortage of incredible dining destinations that can transport its guests to far regions of the world, one of which is the growing presence of omakase-based restaurants in our Magic city. The nature of an omakase dining experience means leaving the food selection up to the chef. Below, we have selected some of our top omakase spots demonstrating that the chef knows best.
Photo Courtesy: Sushi By Scratch Restaurants
Shingo
Shingo offers an intimate, 14-seat omakase experience complete with 18 courses featuring Japanese nigiri, seasonal sashimi and premium sake pairings. Helmed by chef Shingo Akikuni, a third-generation sushi chef who previously served as the executive chef at Hiden, each dish features personally sourced and selected ingredients imported from Japan. With Japanese design elements infused throughout the restaurant, Shingo is far more than a dining destination. 112 Alhambra Cir., Coral Gables, Website
Sushi | Bar
This 17-course omakase experience is tucked away within Miami Beach’s Esmé Hotel. As the first Miami location, the 12 seats surround the chef’s cutting boards as they prepare modern takes on nigiri and other delicacies with distinctive ingredients such as bagel spice, truffle salt, miso and other delectable offerings. 1435 Drexel Ave., Miami Beach, Website
Osaka Nikkei
Blending Japanese techniques with Peruvian flavors, Osaka Nikkei offers a unique experience for guests to dine in a vibrant atmosphere. With an option to choose between the special Nikkei Bar Omakase or a premium Nikkei Bar Omakase, guests are sure to enjoy extravagant and artfully decorated platters featuring a range of nigiri, sashimi, ceviche, tiraditos and makimonos. 1300 Brickell Bay Dr., Miami, Website
MILA Omakase
Offering an authentic and exclusive omakase experience, MILA Omakase transports guests on a culinary journey complete with embellishments and culinary expertise. The space features delicate cherry blossom trees, minimalist wooding, a Japanese craftsmanship-inspired wallpaper screen, a beautiful marble countertop, a 500-year-old hinoki wood cutting board, and a slew of other details that set this experience above others. Helmed by chefs Michael Michaelidis and Reiji Yoshizawa, the 15-course menu revolves around Japan’s 72 micro-seasons incorporating a Mediterranean twist. 800 Lincoln Rd., Miami Beach, Website
Queen Omakase
Nestled within the historic Paris Theater, Queen’s new omakase experience, which opened earlier this year, offers an elite VIP experience. Helmed by chef Max Kamakura, a third-generation sushi chef, this opulent multicourse meal skillfully merges his well-traveled life while incorporating stories within each bite. 550 Washington Ave., Miami Beach, Website
Nossa Omakase
Whether you are a seasoned omakase connoisseur or this is your first experience with this delicacy, Nossa Omakase offers the traditional omakase experience with a decadent speakeasy twist, complete with over-the-top ingredients and a photo-worthy presentation. The restaurant recently introduced a new 16-to18-course dinner offered throughout the week serving exotic seafood flown straight in from Japan, complete with a complimentary cocktail. 1600 Collins Ave., Miami Beach, Website
OMAKAI
Launching in November 2019, OMAKAI is expanding its sushi empire into Coconut Grove. The new location features a hand roll bar, a curated selection of sakes and a complete omakase experience. Founded by brothers Diego and Pedro Quijada and Nicolas Sayavedra and chef Aaron Pate, the team combines their passion for gastronomy and hospitality for OMAKAI’s signature experience. The menu features various tasting options and premium-cut fish for an elevated experience. Unlike other omakase restaurants, OMAKAI has 65 seats while taking guests on a culinary journey. 3304 Mary St., Miami, Website
Sexy Fish Miami
This hot spot Brickell location offers several premium tasting menus; options include the ludicrous tasting menu, the sekushi seasonal tasting menu or the classic Hiro tasting menu. Each menu offers a different experience: the ludicrous presented on a 14-leg octopus featuring dishes such as tuna belly, premium sashimi, barbecue King crab, and Wagyu smoked kimchi; the sekushi with a rotating menu with oysters and shiso, smoked tofu and morel gyoza, spring lamb rack, and more; or the classic Hiro tasting menu. 1001 S Miami Ave., Miami, Website
Sushi by Scratch
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California-based Scratch Restaurants Group offers a memorable and intimate 10-seat dining experience. The menu, which changes based on access to ingredients, offers a variety of unique flavors and premium-grade fish. All dishes are made from scratch while serving some of the rarest fishes Miami diners will enjoy. 3540 Main Hwy., Coconut Grove, Website
Hiden
True to its name, this Wynwood omakase destination is “hidden” behind a Wynwood taco spot. Entering through a secret door to an intimate speakeasy-style room, Hiden offers an extraordinarily memorable omakase experience where guests can enjoy 15 courses that utilize fresh, seasonal ingredients made with classic Japanese techniques. While reservations are tough to secure, this spot serves both hot and cold dishes that are sure to melt in your mouth. 313 NW 25th St., Miami, Website
Photography by: Photo Courtesy: Sushi By Scratch Restaurants