Japon Restaurant Opens at the Setai Miami Beach

The Setai Miami Beach hotel is adding another restaurant to its lineup: Japon (stylized Japón), a Japanese-focused spot opening on October 1. The kitchen will be helmed by the hotel’s executive chef Vijayudu Veena, who also leads the kitchen at Jaya, the Setai’s popular courtyard restaurant, along with executive sous-chef Ivàn Monzón.

Michael Pissari

Japon’s menu offers something for everyone, starting with dishes like tuna crispy rice and wagyu sliders. Lighter options include miso black cod lettuce cups and the Japon Caesar, topped with a wasabi-truffle dressing. The raw bar features choices like toro tartare and hamachi jalapeño, while sushi lovers can opt for classics such as spicy tuna or wagyu roll. For a more substantial meal, there’s the F1 wagyu striploin and bone-in ribeye from the robata grill or the truffle hotpot with sushi rice, wild mushrooms, and shaved truffle.

The drink menu offers a range of sparkling wines, whites, rosés, and reds, including some high-end selections available by the glass through Coravin. Cocktails range from inventive options like the Wasabi Martini and Fuji Blossom to classics such as the Espresso Martini and Fig Old Fashioned. Of course, the sake offerings are extensive: Each bottle is sourced from prominent regions, reflecting the distinct climates, rice varieties, and the water needed for sake-making.

Japon, designed by Saladino Design Studios, offers rather elaborate indoor and outdoor dining options. The courtyard, framed by moss-covered murals and anchored by a Japanese ‘Torii Gate’ (pagoda), features palm trees and seating next to the hotel’s water fountain. Inside, the main dining room boasts a ceiling of undulating wooden patterns inspired by traditional Japanese architecture, complemented by seating upholstered in classic Japanese motifs. Custom porcelain feather tiles, a mosaic mural, and Japanese artwork create a gallery-like experience. Guests are greeted by the “Tsuru” crane, symbolizing happiness and good fortune. For a more exclusive experience, the Kyoto Room offers private dining for up to 14 guests, complete with its own bar, private entrance, and a collection of Japanese artwork, including pieces dating back to the mid-1800s. Check out the space below.

Japon is located within the Setai Miami Beach at 2001 Collins Avenue, Miami Beach, FL 33139.