Nestled within the luxurious confines of The Setai Miami Beach hotel, Japón is set to launch this October as the property’s newest culinary gem. Enhancing the Setai’s distinguished dining repertoire, which includes South Asian Jaya, and the Mediterranean-inspired Ocean Grill, Japón will expand the hotel’s culinary offerings. Japón will introduce a new, immersive dining experience that brings the rich, cultural tapestry of Japan to life all set to the tune of Asian Night Bazaar featuring nightly performances in the courtyard.
Thoughtfully envisioned to provide a truly transportive dining experience, the restaurant features meticulously crafted indoor and outdoor environments, complemented by an exclusive private dining space dubbed ‘The Kyoto Room.’
‘The Kyoto Room’ is an exclusive enclave that provides a uniquely transformative dining experience for up to 14 guests. Featuring its own private bar and secluded entrance, this intimate setting pays homage to Kyoto, the cultural heart of Japan. Decorated with traditional Japanese motifs and a collection of Japanese artwork with certain pieces dating back to the mid-1800s, the private room immerses diners in the cultural essence of Japan.
Upon entering Japón, diners are welcomed by the tiled majestic “Tsuru” crane, a revered cultural emblem in Japanese tradition symbolizing happiness and good fortune. Esteemed for its significance, the crane, when folded into origami, is believed to fulfill one’s heart’s deepest desires. This powerful symbol is thoughtfully and subtly integrated throughout the restaurant.
Under the leadership of Executive Chef Vijayudu Veena, known for his culinary prowess at The Setai’s signature courtyard restaurant, Jaya, and Executive Sous-Chef Ivàn Monzón, Japón’s menu has been meticulously curated to reflect the intricate balance of flavors, textures, and aesthetics deeply ingrained in Japanese culture.
“Japón offers more than a meal—it’s an experience that immerses guests in the rich, cultural tapestry of Japan. For this reason, our menu focuses on authenticity, using time-honored techniques and the finest ingredients to bring the spirit of Japan to every dish. Our offerings are designed to evoke the traditional flavors of Japan while embracing a modern culinary twist that elevates each dish. Standouts like our Chilean Sea Bass with charred tomato miso, Lamb Chops and freshly sourced seafood present in our sashimi and sushi selection set the stage for a delectable culinary experience that rounds out our Asian offerings at The Setai, Miami Beach.” – said Executive Chef Vijayudu Veena in astatement.
Each dish is thoughtfully paired with an extensive selection of rare and exceptional sakes, a premier wine list, and enticing new cocktails. Blending traditional Japanese ingredients with modern mixology techniques, signature cocktails include, the Fuji Blossom; made with Fuji apple-infused ALB vodka, Joto Yuzu sake, fresh citrus, and egg whites, the Wasabi Martini; made with vodka, cucumber, fresh citrus, and wasabi and the Suntory Sour; made with Toki Whiskey, Midori melon, Choya plum, citrus, saline, and egg whites.
Through the visionary design of Saladino Design Studios, Japón exudes a masterful blend of traditional Japanese aesthetics and contemporary luxury. Japón’s design narrative seamlessly intertwines traditional Japanese artmaking techniques with a clean, modernized sensibility, using rich, muted color palettes and authentic symbolism.
The venue provides a variety of dining experiences including an exquisite outdoor courtyard. The courtyard is a serene oasis where hand-painted murals are enveloped in moss. A striking Japanese pagoda frames the restaurant from the hotel’s courtyard, where guests are surrounded by palm trees and a water feature as the centerpiece.
Inside, the main dining room has a ceiling with undulating wooden patterns that echo traditional Japanese architecture, complemented by luxurious seating upholstered in conventional Japanese motifs. Custom porcelain feather tiles, a custom mosaic mural, and an array of Japanese artwork, further enrich the interior.
“Japón takes you through the Japanese culture where the past and present collide. Our team crafted this space from the ground up, integrating one-of-a-kind elements you won’t find anywhere else in Miami. We are very proud of our creativity and final design that is Japón at The Setai; we cannot wait for everyone to enjoy what we have created.” – Sean Saladino of Saladino Design Studio.
Japón is located within The Setai Miami Beach at 2001 Collins Avenue Miami Beach, Florida 33139. Japón is open for dinner on Monday-Thursday, from 6PM-11PM, Friday-Saturday from 6PM-11:30PM and Sundays from 6PM-11PM.
