Miami’s global food scene just gained a new address with Brazilian roots. Mottai, a contemporary Japanese restaurant from Brazil’s Attivo Group, has opened at The Plaza Coral Gables, bringing a culinary story that begins not in Tokyo — but in São Paulo.
At first glance, a Brazilian group launching a Japanese restaurant might seem unexpected. But anyone familiar with São Paulo knows the connection runs deep. The city is home to the largest Japanese community outside Japan and one of the most respected sushi scenes in the world. Over decades, Japanese immigration helped shape a culinary culture where precision, freshness and technique became part of the city’s gastronomic identity.
Now that influence arrives in Miami.
Created by chef Brian Nasajon, executive chef Moritz Esser, and sushi chef Hiroshi Shintaku, Mottai blends traditional Japanese techniques with the lighter, ingredient-driven style that Miami diners gravitate toward.
The space itself is elegant but relaxed: marble tables, deep blue velvet seating and striking white crane artwork create a setting that feels polished without being overly formal. The restaurant seats around 150 guests and includes a bar and a dedicated sushi counter for diners who prefer the classic omakase-style experience.
Seafood naturally plays a starring role on the menu. Starters include hamachi with white soy ponzu and jalapeño, hirame with spicy pomelo and lemongrass, and steamed clams finished with sake and furikake. But the kitchen also moves beyond raw preparations, offering dishes like crispy chicken with pickled watermelon and Japanese eggplant.
Among the main plates, expect bold yet balanced flavors: pork belly with hatcho yakiniku sauce, black garlic chicken with carrot purée and grilled American wagyu ribeye served with shiso tempura.
At the sushi counter, chef Hiroshi Shintaku, known for his work at restaurants like Makoto in Bal Harbour and Hiyakawa in Wynwood, focuses on simplicity and precision — nigiri, sashimi and maki that highlight the quality of the fish rather than elaborate presentations. Rolls like the salmon tataki maki with snow crab, avocado and cucumber bring a modern twist while staying grounded in classic technique.
For Miami diners, Mottai isn’t just another sushi restaurant. It’s a reminder of how global food cultures travel — and how São Paulo, with its unique blend of Japanese heritage and Brazilian creativity, continues to influence kitchens far beyond Brazil.
Mottai
📍 The Plaza Coral Gables – 2881 Ponce de Leon Blvd.
Lunch: 11:30 a.m.–2:30 p.m.
Dinner: Tue–Thu 5:30–10 p.m., Fri 5:30–11 p.m., Sat 6–11 p.m. Closed Sunday
Reservations: OpenTable
More info: mottaimiami.com
