Photo Credit: @mottai.miami
An evening at Mottai in Coral Gables transcends the typical dining experience. It unfolds like an intricate story where culinary artistry, ambience, and narrative coalesce. Located in The Plaza Coral Gables, this restaurant introduces a unique concept that fuses traditional Japanese techniques with Miami’s dynamic restaurant scene, yielding a locale that is both universally sophisticated and distinctly local.
Upon arrival, guests are enveloped in an atmosphere that skillfully balances elegance with comfort. The interior draws inspiration from French Japonisme, melding European architectural influences with Japanese symbolism. The dining area features marble tables, deep blue velvet seating, and captivating white crane artwork, creating a refined environment that shifts from bright and airy by day to intimate and atmospheric at night.
A memorable aspect of the visit included a conversation with the restaurant’s owner, who elaborated on Mottai’s vision. The venture marks the first U.S. establishment of Brazil’s Attivo Group, celebrated for its thoughtful dining concepts. This collaboration aims to establish a restaurant where Japanese culinary precision intertwines with a relaxed, Miami-inspired dining atmosphere.
Chef Brian Nasajon, alongside sushi chef Hiroshi Shintaku, designed a menu rooted in Japanese traditions while incorporating ingredients that resonate with Miami’s diverse flavors. The selection favors shareable, ingredient-focused dishes that encourage diners to explore, beginning with lighter cold offerings that awaken the senses.
Cold small plates showcase the kitchen’s ability to reinterpret Japanese classics. Hamachi arrives with white soy ponzu and citrus oroshi, achieving a blend of brightness and depth. Hirame is complemented by spicy pomelo and lemongrass, introducing subtle tropical tones that enhance the delicate fish. These dishes set the tone for a menu that honors tradition while allowing for creative adaptations.
As the tasting progresses, the menu transitions to more substantial offerings featuring seafood and grilled dishes. The Sugi Katsu presents a seafood twist on a classic, showcasing cobia with a crisp exterior served with ponzu aioli. Another highlight includes the American Wagyu rib eye paired with shiso tempura and tare sauce, delivering a richness that is balanced by herbal freshness.
The Kinoko Hot Pot stands out as one of the evening’s most engaging dishes, completed tableside with egg yolk, furikake, and chili crunch folded into steamed rice. This interactive presentation brings a layer of comfort while elevating the tasting experience through umami-rich flavors.
For sushi enthusiasts, the restaurant’s sushi counter emphasizes seasonality and meticulous technique. The curated selections of nigiri and sashimi reflect the chefs’ keen attention to detail, while innovative maki options like the Salmon Tataki Maki and Toro Taku Maki balance flavor and texture skillfully.
Desserts continue the theme of reinterpretation. The Mango Chawanmushi offers a tropical revelry on the traditional Japanese custard, enhanced with mango and coconut. Meanwhile, the Chocolate Fondant is paired with a black sesame cocoa nib tuile and Okinawa espresso ice cream, providing a refined conclusion to the meal.
Ultimately, Mottai’s identity is defined by the clarity of its vision. Each element, from the design to the culinary execution, reflects a harmonious balance between Japanese techniques and Miami’s vibrant dining culture, establishing an experience that is both thoughtful and quietly impactful.
