Best Contemporary Japanese: MOTTAI

MOTTAI approaches Japanese cooking with respect for tradition but very little interest in standing still. Located at The Plaza Coral Gables, the restaurant grounds its menu in Japanese technique and craftsmanship, then allows South Florida ingredients, global influences and a distinctly Miami energy to enter the conversation.

The sushi program is substantial, with nigiri and sashimi selections that can include toro, akami, madai, kinmedai, hirame, scallop, kanpachi, uni, hamachi and other premium seafood. Diners can order individually or choose chef-selected nigiri and sashimi assortments, while maki and temaki extend the raw-bar side of the menu.

But MOTTAI is not simply a sushi restaurant. Cold plates such as hamachi and tuna tartare sit alongside hot dishes including enoki mushroom tempura, Japanese eggplant, steamed clams and rock shrimp. Black cod, black garlic chicken and pork belly lead into a grill section featuring prawns, Wagyu and prime steaks, while yaki udon and the Kinoko Hot Pot give the menu yet another dimension.

The setting is every bit as deliberate as the food. MOTTAI was conceived as an immersive dining environment, with a central sushi experience and a highly designed interior that makes the restaurant feel appropriate for a serious dinner, date night or celebration. The idea is refinement without losing the energy of Miami.

What makes MOTTAI particularly interesting is the balance. Japanese tradition provides the discipline, but the kitchen gives itself permission to explore. For combining precision, sushi craftsmanship and contemporary creativity in one of Coral Gables’ newest Japanese dining experiences, MOTTAI is the Coral Gables Gazette’s selection for Best Contemporary Japanese.