Nikkei, Peruvian and Japanese options for a date night dinner to remember.
A ceviche trio from Osaka Cocina Nikkei.
1. Hiyakawa
Small Japanese restaurants are the thing these days in Miami, and it’s obvious chef Shuji Hiyakawa and art dealer Alvaro Perez Miranda know that well. By the time you read this, their intimate, 28-seat Hiyakawa eatery should be open with a menu (still in the works as of press time) that focuses on seasonality, simplicity and omotenashi, the traditional Japanese notion of hospitality through precise service. In the words of its creators, the cuisine will embrace “the wide world of Japanese cuisine” with dishes that are deep-fried, grilled and pan-fried,” as well as cold and hot appetizers, plus sake, beer and wine. An omakase menu for $100 per person will also be available. 2700 N. Miami Ave., Miami
Juan Chipoco, the executive chef and owner of CVI.CHE 305 and Pollos y Jarras, has proven he can do casual Peruvian. Now, with INTI.MO, he wants to show Miami he can do upscale dining as well. INTI.MO focuses on traditional Japanese dishes, classic Peruvian favorites and a mix of the two. Standout appetizers include steamed dumplings with duck and foie gras, and grilled octopus with patatas bravas and yellow pepper sauce. As far as entrees go, diners can’t go wrong with the short rib pappardelle or the Reina del Mar, a platter of crispy pieces of whole lobster, fresh fish, baby calamari bathed in leche de tigre and yuzu jalapeno. 840 First St., Miami Beach, 305.964.8006
It’s hard to believe that Osaka began as a simple pop-up. Eighteen years later, the brand has locations all throughout South America. Its latest in Miami showcases the superior Nikkei cuisine that has won owners Diego de la Puente and Diego Herrera multiple accolades and legions of fans, not just in Peru but all over the world. Signature staples at this Miami location include nigiri sushi, wasabi ceviche with spicy leche de tigre, Nikkei omakase platters and izakaya-style dishes. The decor fuses modern architecture with feng shui and Peruvian accents. A dimly lit interior and serene vibe (ideal for that all-important Valentine’s night supper) complete the equation. 1300 Brickell Bay Drive, Miami, 786.627.4800
Photography by: Courtesy of Osaka Concina Nikkei
