Miami’s
First Japanese Bistro
Domo Japones Brings Unique Cuisine to the
Design District
Story by Debra Kronowitz
Domo Japones is a Japanese bistro that
brings
modern and innovative cuisine to the flourishing restaurant scene in
Miami’s Design District. Recently opened in November,
Domo Japones offers unique Japanese plates, as well as brilliant sushi
and sashimi in a casual bistro setting.
A white-washed facade and iconic eagle statue lay claim to the
corner of 40th & NE 2nd Avenue. This antiquated former Post Office
beckons patrons with the warmth exuded by a familiar landmark building.
Designed by Karine Rousseau, the space is reminiscent of a cozy bistro,
with warm leather booths, soft lighting and a calming simplicity. Once
inside, art and design become the catalyst for the cuisine. Modern
linear lines are complemented by a ceiling crowned with etched angled
molding, and dark wood tables and chairs give way to cool multi-hued
accents. This inviting canvas is perfectly paired to showcase exquisite
Japanese culinary creations while provocative imagery by various popular
artists sets the tone for lingering conversation.
The Cuisine
Japanese cuisine is known
for its emphasis on the
seasonality of food and the quality of ingredients and
presentation. Sushi Chef Naohiro "Nao" Higuchi and Chef de Cuisine Timon
Balloo have used their knowledge of Japanese fare and creativity to
create seasonal menus that offer organic ingredients and make use of
local vegetables and fruits. Higuchi hails most recently from Nobu at
the Atlantis on Paradise Island, Bahamas, and Pacific Restaurant in
Monte Carlo; Balloo has worked alongside renowned chefs in top kitchens,
including Azul, La Broche, SushiSamba and Chef Allen's.
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Photos by Julio Carlos |
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Utilizing his gift to create a
customer-friendly menu at Domo, Chef Balloo has garnered a
variety of tasty innovative small plates that appeal to
everyone’s taste buds. He has successfully taken traditional
Japanese dishes and has fashioned his spin on them. For
starters, try the Black Edamame sautéed in sweet soy sauce.
The Surf N’ Turf Miso Cappuccino Soup combines oxtail broth
and Key West shrimp gyoza. Specialties of the house include
Pan Seared Hudson Valley Foie Gras, roasted organic chicken,
Duck Yaki Udon, filet mignon and pan-seared halibut. Domos
also offers signature rolls, including shrimp and
prosciutto, vegetable oshi-zushi and Kobe
beef. Side dishes include
rice, vegetables and nori pommes frites.
The dessert menu offers Tofu
Flan; Fall Miso Apple Hoba Yaki, or ginger ice cream; Warm
Chocolate Cake with Okinawa sea salt and vanilla ice cream;
and a variety of ice cream and sorbets.
After dinner, guests can go upstairs and relax in the lounge
where the tête-à-tête continues over a glass of wine, sake,
champagne or specialty cocktail.
With the help of a stellar team
forged by owner Amir Ben-Zion, who has partnered on several
notable projects, including The Townhouse Hotel, Bond St.
and Miss Yip Chinese Cafe in Miami Beach, Domo is slated to
emerge as the Design District’s next coveted destination.
The space is dedicated to providing contemporary Japanese
fare in a subtle, stimulating environment.
Domo Japones is located at 4000 NE 2nd Ave. Lunch is served
from noon to 3 pm Monday through Friday, and dinner from 6
pm to 2 am Monday through Sunday.
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