Modern High-End Japanese Concept to Open with Emphasis on Sushi and Sake

This winter, Miami will get a taste of modern Japanese cuisine via internationally-renowned Soho Bay, which is preparing for a January 2015 debut. Already an established brand throughout Brazil, Soho Bay will import more than fifteen years of sushi and sashimi making traditions to South Florida with an 180-seat waterfront restaurant located at 520 West Avenue in Miami Beach.

Behind the restaurant is visionary Karine Queiroz, the Bahia entrepreneur who opened the flagship location in 1998. Since then, the restaurateur has expanded the brand to eight locations in Brazil – home to the largest Japanese population outside of Japan.

Executing the menu will be Executive Chef Ricardo Sauri who brings more than 20 years of experience to the Soho Bay team. Sauri has worked in a number of kitchens throughout the country including a decade at the renowned Nobu empire’s locations in Miami Beach, West Hollywood and the Bahamas. Sauri began his culinary career at Lotus in New York before moving to South Florida where he worked at some of Miami’s most esteemed restaurants, including Touch and Bloom. Most recently, Sauri helmed the kitchen at 50 Eggs’ Khong River House, an acclaimed restaurant featuring the diverse cuisines along the Mekong River. At Soho Bay, Sauri will focus on modern Japanese cuisine with an emphasis on sushi and sashimi. A menu meant to be shared, guests will be able to enjoy a fresh selection of the highest quality fish, modern interpretations of traditional sushi, as well as an array of house specialties.

To complement the delicate Japanese cuisine, Soho Bay will feature a bar program highlighting sakes and an innovative cocktail program complete with molecular science techniques.

Designed by architects Jose Gomes and Marlon Gama, Soho Bay will feature floor-to-ceiling glass windows showcasing breathtaking waterfront views of the Intracoastal Waterway. The dining room will boast a streamline and modern design highlighting various hues of wood accented by burgundy chairs, beautifully offsetting the blue waters. Paying homage to the international locations, Miami’s outpost will feature a sleek sushi bar for a more interactive experience while intimate dining tables will line the perimeter. Soho Bay’s al fresco patio will also provide a breezy dining setting under the stars, while patrons can enjoy cocktails and sushi in the modern lounge.

Soho Bay will be located at 520 West Avenue in Miami Beach. Dinner will be served nightly from6 p.m. to midnight with brunch debuting at a later date. Valet parking will be available.www.sohobayrestaurant.com.