KAORI Miami Announces May 2021 Opening in Downtown Brickell
Umai Group is proud to announce the upcoming opening of KAORI Miami, a brand-new two-story Mediterranean-Asian-inspired culinary concept, nestled in the very heart of downtown Brickell. The all-expansive dining destination will serve as Umai Group’s first food and hospitality venture, bringing two levels of unparalleled indulgence and entertainment to the neighborhood. KAORI offers a welcoming environment that embraces a naturalistic style, where every detail is thoughtfully curated to create a singular guest experience. From the delicately warm-toned interior, to the exceptional food and beverage programming, to the synergetic entertainment component, every extension of KAORI naturally blends to create a harmonic likeness throughout. Helmed at the culinary hands of renowned Chef Fabrizio Garofolin, the concept is slated to unveil, late-May 2021.
Embark on the KAORI Journey
Upon arrival, guests will find the entrance to the 4,500 sq. ft. restaurant at the ground level of SLS LUX Brickell, where they will be greeted by KAORI’s signature bar and lounge area. Appealing to those looking for an inviting neighborhood spot with an authentic evening-time vibe, the bar and lounge area will also bring an inspired mixture of entertainment, live music, and exotic instrumentals from a wide range of cultures. The music component of the space will play a fundamental role in establishing the identity of KAORI as a whole, lending to the curation of the venue’s full-sensory guest experience. A signature KAORI playlist will also be created where anyone is able to follow, offering guests a unique KAORI takeaway experience that will alternate bi-weekly.
Gastronomy
Beyond the bar and lounge space, guests will come across a dimly lit staircase, which elegantly links to KAORI’s spacious upstairs dining area. Here, Chef Fabrizio Garofolin serves as the heartbeat of the restaurant, creating a beautiful balance between modern and time-honored techniques while combining the two worlds of Mediterranean and Asian cuisine. Chef Fabrizio unleashes his culinary artistry with a menu that exudes a diverse and sophisticated fusion of flavors, colorful and texturally rich ingredients. Highlighting Chef’s farm-to-table practices, and the sourcing of local ingredients and quality fresh fish, KAORI’s menu offers an eclectic culinary journey through land and sea. Guests can look forward to signature menu items such as authentic cuts of A5 Japanese Miyazaki Kobe Strip Loin with Shiso Chimichurri, Furikake Chicharron with Yuzu Mojo, Yellow Fin Tuna with Charred Avocado and Miso Sweet Potato Puree, home-made Short Rib Dumplings with Manchego Foam, and Kabayaki Glazed Seabass.
Beverage Programming
Aside from an incredible culinary focus, guests can also expect a sublime cocktail, wine, and sake programming. Prominent local bartender, James Mcleenes, will serve as KAORI’s lead Bar Manager, where he will be incorporating a variety of innovative ingredients from different cuisines into the signature cocktail menu. Pulling influence from his residencies in Sydney, New York City, and Miami’s bar scene, James’ approach is minimalist, flavor-focused, with a notable emphasis on execution and elegant presentation. KAORI’s wine and sake offerings will be spearheaded by two powerhouse women, Macarena Carrillo and Mariel Dalmau, who double as the founders of the natural wine social club, Grape Crush Miami. Their method aims to create a sustainable and innovative program, blending classics while simultaneously pushing boundaries.
Design
Esteban Bressan’s vision was brought to life as a collaborative initiative between critically-acclaimed Miami-based design firm Spazio/Bressan and Interior Image Group (IIG), every space within the two-story concept was designed to offer an authentic, harmonic ambiance to enhance the guest’s overall experience, that is: the KAORI experience. Bressan’s multi-disciplinary vision for KAORI entwines both Mediterranean and Asian-influenced design elements with a natural and minimalist undertone. The bright, open, airy space exudes a balance between sophistication and casual comfort that celebrates simplicity through a modest palette of organic materials.
For more info visit kaorimiami.com
Address: 871 South Miami Ave. South Miami, FL 33130.
Instagram: @KaoriMiami
Facebook: @KAORI-MIAMI