Take your palate on a sumptuous modern Asian tasting tour with an innovative selection of seasonal fare and craft cocktails inspired by the far East. Located in the heart of Brickell, Kaori delivers either an elegant upscale dining experience in its main room or a more exclusive yet upbeat ambiance in their Hi-Fidelity listening bar. Award winning, Kaori keeps even the most stingy of critics on their toes by marrying familiar Asian comfort flavors with a rotating bevy of eclectic haute dishes you’ve never experienced in Florida. The ultimate fusion of classy and hipster ambiance, makes Kaori one of a kind in Miami deserving of its national accolades.
Meet Diego Pagola, Kaori’s Director of Operations. Diego’s thoughts about Kaori’s ambitious beginnings to that of current trend setter in Miami’s burgeoning food scene is as insightful as it is appetizing. Enjoy reading about this well-rounded restaurant that just so happens to be included in 2024’s Miami Michelin Guide.
How did the idea for the restaurant start, and how did the name come about?
The idea came from our team’s desire to have a restaurant in Miami and tie Japanese roots through design and ambiance.
When did you open? How has Kaori evolved since you first opened?
We opened in the summer of 2022. The concept has evolved drastically since then, all for the better. One of the biggest changes has been the addition of our Hi-Fidelity listening bar on the first floor. This added another layer to the project, allowing guests to choose between dining on the second floor or having a more casual yet sophisticated experience at the listening bar.
Do you have any other locations, or are you affiliated with other restaurants?
While we are not affiliated with other restaurants, we are proud to partner exclusively with SLS LUX Brickell. Hotel guests can now savor the acclaimed cuisine of Kaori right in their suites, indulging in dishes, craft cocktails, and champagne with our exclusive in-room dining service. Additionally, we collaborate with other restaurants and bars for takeovers, such as Bocadoro, Miami Sound Bar, and the Broken Shaker.
Can you tell our readers exactly where you are located and what is unique about your location?
Situated in the heart of Brickell, Kaori stands as a tranquil oasis amidst the urban rush. Our minimalist design comes alive through dynamic flavors, diverse sounds, and authentic human connections.
What’s the experience like from the moment you arrive at Kaori?
Picture this: Step into The Listening Bar downstairs, where you can savor cocktails and bites before ascending to our main dining room for the complete Kaori experience. After your meal, descend to The Listening Bar, where you’ll immerse yourself in discovering new sounds and artists in an atmosphere that celebrates attentive listening over dancing—complete with a DJ spinning vinyl. Our friendly staff will guide you throughout the evening, recommending perfect pairings of drinks and dishes.
Can you elaborate on what goes into your modern Asian cuisine?
The food at Kaori is thoughtfully designed to celebrate the richness of Asian flavors. Drawing inspiration from a variety of Asian ingredients and cooking techniques, Kaori’s menu showcases a seamless integration of flavors while maintaining its own unique identity.
What sets Kaori apart?
At Kaori, we see each dish and drink as a gateway to worlds of shared history and cultural richness—our space invites everyone to celebrate life, connections, and the pursuit of sublime living.
Can you name some of your most popular dishes and drinks?
The foie gras and wagyu gyoza are staples of the house, but there are some new favorites like the Five Spice Cured Duck and the crispy duck salad.
Do you offer a room for private parties, and what can we expect from the experience of having an event at Kaori?
Kaori boasts two unique floors with three dining areas, accommodating up to 120 guests. The first-floor indoor lounge, The Listening Bar, offers a sophisticated space for receptions and events, blending analog nostalgia with contemporary soundscapes using Danley Audio Sound Labs speakers. On the second floor, guests encounter a wabi-sabi-designed restaurant with three dining spaces, an open kitchen, and a panoramic view of Brickell—perfect for various occasions. Kaori transports guests through a culinary journey, providing an elevated dining experience in a magical atmosphere. This area is ideal for corporate dinners, birthday celebrations, luncheons, product launches, and more.
Is there anything unique you want to highlight that the community may not be aware of?
It’s important to know about our culinary program’s efforts, which constantly evolve with the seasons and available products. This creates a huge challenge for us, but we are proud to work more sustainably. Also, all of our fish comes from local fishermen and rotates weekly.
Do you have any future plans for Kaori?
We do not currently have specific plans, but we want to grow our hospitality presence in Miami.