UKIYO Miami Beach Is About to Make Conveyor Belt Sushi Seriously Sexy

September 2, 2026

There are new restaurant openings we want to check out, and then there are the ones that immediately make us think: I NEED TO GO.

UKIYO is definitely the latter.

Opening this October at 818 Lincoln Road in Miami Beach, the newest concept from NOAH Hospitality Group takes Japan’s iconic kaiten, or conveyor belt sushi, tradition and gives it a Miami makeover.

We’re talking premium seafood from Japan traveling through the dining room on a custom-designed conveyor belt, live culinary performances, tableside cooking, a roaming dumpling cart and a gorgeous 7,431-square-foot space designed to keep the experience moving all night.

And judging by the first renderings and menu details, UKIYO already has our attention.

UKIYO’s custom kaiten conveyor belt will serve as the centerpiece of the new Miami Beach restaurant. Courtesy of Casa Medina Design Studio/UKIYO.

Not Your Average Conveyor Belt Sushi

Inspired by the Japanese concept of ukiyo, meaning “the floating world,” the restaurant is designed around movement.

The conveyor belt isn’t simply there to deliver sushi. It’s essentially the stage.

Handcrafted nigiri, sashimi and specialty rolls will continuously circulate through the dining room, while chefs work in view of guests and new creations make their way from the sushi counter onto the belt through choreographed presentations.

Live culinary performances will add another layer of entertainment throughout dinner.

NOAH Hospitality Group founder Philippe Kalifa says that sense of experience was intentional.

“For me, hospitality has never been about simply serving food. It’s about creating emotion.”

His goal? To create a restaurant people remember not just for what they ate, but for how the entire evening made them feel.

We’re listening.

The Menu Is Where Things Get Really Interesting

Executive Chef Nono Shigetomi will lead UKIYO’s kitchen, with premium seafood sourced from carefully selected fisheries across Japan and fish coming from Tokyo’s Toyosu and Tsukiji markets.

The signature Ukiyo Roll alone sounds like it deserves a visit: tuna, salmon, hiramasa and Hokkaido scallop topped with soy-glazed wagyu and umami crunch.

“Freshness isn’t our goal, it’s our starting point,” Shigetomi said. “Every ingredient is selected with intention because great sushi begins long before the fish reaches the plate.”

Beyond the conveyor belt, the menu ventures into robata, tempura, crudo, carpaccio and Japanese comfort dishes.

Expect cumin-soy glazed wagyu and yakitori-glazed chicken from the robata grill, plus a rich paitan ramen loaded with braised duck, sous vide chicken, pork chashu and pork wonton.

There’s also crispy yakisoba finished with ankake sauce and seafood fried rice made with seasoned takikomi gohan rather than standard steamed white rice.

And then things get even better.

Did Someone Say Tableside Kamameshi?

UKIYO’s traditional kamameshi will be cooked fresh at the table in individual kama pots.

The rice is prepared with dashi, soy, sake, mirin, hijiki, carrot and mushroom, then finished with grilled marinated skirt steak and a Jidori egg.

But there’s another menu feature that may have already won us over.

A roaming dumpling cart. Yes, really.

A signature House Dumpling Cart will travel around the dining room carrying a rotating selection of freshly handcrafted beef, pork, chicken, shrimp and vegetarian dumplings. Guests can choose them pan-fried, steamed or deep-fried.

We have a feeling “No, thank you” is going to be extremely difficult when a cart of hot dumplings rolls up to the table.

Japanese-inspired lanterns and warm woodwork lead guests toward UKIYO’s open culinary experience. Courtesy of Casa Medina Design Studio/UKIYO.

And Just Look at This Place

The food may move, but UKIYO’s design gives you plenty of reasons to stop and look around.

Casa Medina Design Studio is behind the 7,431-square-foot restaurant, blending traditional Japanese influences with the darker, sexier energy of Miami Beach after dark.

Rosso Lepanto stone, emerald-toned leathered marble, aged brass, handcrafted millwork and warm Japanese-inspired lanterns fill the interior. A flowing water feature reinforces the restaurant’s “floating world” inspiration.

And at the center of everything sits the custom conveyor belt.

Based on the renderings, chefs will work within the heart of the restaurant as the belt winds around the dining room, placing the food preparation directly into the action rather than hiding it behind the scenes.

It looks intimate, dramatic and just theatrical enough.

UKIYO’s dramatic bar pairs sculptural stone, handcrafted millwork and softly illuminated Japanese-inspired details. Courtesy of Casa Medina Design Studio/UKIYO.

Sushi at 10. Cocktails at Midnight?

This is still Miami Beach, after all.

UKIYO isn’t positioning itself as somewhere you grab an early sushi dinner and head home.

On Friday and Saturday nights, the restaurant plans to remain open until 2 a.m.

And that gorgeous bar suddenly makes a lot more sense.

The restaurant is being designed as a meeting point between Japanese hospitality and Miami’s international, nightlife-driven personality. Traditional techniques and Japanese ingredients form the foundation, while theatrical presentations, dramatic interiors and late-night hours give the concept a distinctly Miami edge.

It’s easy to imagine coming for sushi and staying considerably longer than planned.

When Does UKIYO Miami Beach Open?

Unfortunately, not tomorrow.

UKIYO is scheduled to open in mid-October 2026 at 818 Lincoln Road in Miami Beach.

Dinner will be served from 6 p.m. to midnight Tuesday through Thursday and Sunday, with Friday and Saturday service continuing until 2 a.m. The restaurant will be closed Mondays.

And yes, SFL Insider will be getting an early look.

We’ll be heading to UKIYO ahead of its official debut to experience the restaurant firsthand, which means we’ll be back with the sushi, the cocktails, the space and, most importantly, a full investigation into this roaming dumpling cart.

For now, UKIYO has officially made our list of Miami restaurant openings we cannot wait to try this fall.

October, hurry up!

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Some restaurants are where you go for dinner. Maple & Ash is where you go when you want to celebrate absolutely anything.

July 31, 2026

When most people think of Miami Spice, they think about trying somewhere new.

I think about finally booking the restaurants I’ve been saving for a special occasion.

That’s exactly how I felt walking into Maple & Ash for a preview of its 2026 Miami Spice menu. Known for its premium steaks, dramatic presentations, exceptional seafood, and lively atmosphere, Maple & Ash has quickly become one of Miami Worldcenter’s premier dining destinations. After spending the evening there, I can confidently say this is one reservation worth making early.

From the moment I walked through the doors, the energy was unmistakable. Music filled the dining room, beautifully crafted cocktails made their way through the restaurant, and every table seemed to be celebrating something. Maple & Ash manages to feel sophisticated without ever feeling stuffy. It’s glamorous, energetic, and unapologetically indulgent, exactly what you hope for from a modern steakhouse.

An Opening Course Worth Celebrating

The evening began with Maple & Ash’s optional Fire Roasted Seafood Tower, and if first impressions matter, this one makes quite an entrance.

Loaded with king crab, oysters, prawns, and clams finished with garlic butter and chili oil, it immediately transformed dinner into an event. It’s designed for sharing, making it the perfect way to start the evening if you’re celebrating with friends or family.

Choosing a starter wasn’t easy.

The Bluefin Tuna Tartare immediately caught my attention, pairing fresh tuna with watermelon, white soy, and crème fraîche. Every bite was bright, delicate, and incredibly refreshing.

The Lobster Bisque was equally memorable. Rich, silky, and finished with a buttery brioche crouton, it struck that perfect balance between comforting and elegant. Meanwhile, the Tableside Sesame Caesar Salad and the restaurant’s famous Dry Aged Meatballs looked just as tempting as they passed by our table.

Steak, Seafood, and Pasta That Steal the Show

If the appetizers make choosing difficult, the entrées make it nearly impossible.

Steak lovers can choose between an 8 ounce Filet Mignon or a beautifully marbled 12 ounce New York Strip, both served with black truffle pomme purée. Seafood fans will appreciate the Mediterranean Branzino, prepared with preserved lemon, Castelvetrano olives, capers, and smoked tomato for a light yet flavorful entrée.

One of my personal favorites, however, was the Lobster Mafaldine.

Featuring generous pieces of Maine lobster tossed with saffron, basil, and Aleppo pepper, the pasta was rich without feeling heavy and showcased exactly why Maple & Ash has earned such a devoted following.

For guests looking to indulge even further, there’s also the option to upgrade to an A5 Miyazaki Wagyu Ribeye, one of the most luxurious cuts of beef available.

Save Room for Dessert

Just when I thought I couldn’t possibly eat another bite, dessert arrived.

The rich Chocolate Cake, refreshing Strawberry Tres Leches, and creamy Coconut Cream Pie all make a convincing argument for ignoring the fact that you’re already full.

If you’re dining with a group, though, the real showstopper is the optional Sundae Tower. Served with chocolate, vanilla, and strawberry ice creams alongside an assortment of toppings, it’s a playful ending that perfectly matches Maple & Ash’s celebratory atmosphere.

More Than Dinner at Miami Worldcenter

One of my favorite parts of the evening wasn’t just dinner. It was the location.

Situated in the heart of Miami Worldcenter, Maple & Ash is surrounded by one of downtown Miami’s fastest growing entertainment districts. Beautiful pedestrian streets connect restaurants, bars, cafés, shopping, and public gathering spaces, creating an atmosphere that encourages you to make an entire evening of your visit.

Whether you’re heading to a Miami Heat game or concert at nearby Kaseya Center, meeting friends for cocktails, or simply exploring one of Miami’s newest neighborhoods, Maple & Ash is perfectly positioned to be the centerpiece of your night.

With convenient parking, a walkable layout, and an ever expanding collection of dining destinations, Miami Worldcenter has quickly become one of my favorite places to spend an evening in downtown Miami.

Why Maple & Ash Should Be on Your Miami Spice List

One of the things I love most about Miami Spice is that it gives diners the opportunity to experience some of Miami’s best restaurants at an incredible value.

Maple & Ash delivers exactly that.

Between premium steaks, fresh seafood, luxurious pastas, exceptional service, and an atmosphere that’s equal parts elegant and energetic, it offers one of the most memorable dining experiences I’ve had this season. It’s the kind of restaurant where every course feels like an occasion, and where you’ll probably find yourself planning your next visit before you’ve even finished dessert.

If you’ve been looking for an excuse to experience one of Miami’s most talked about steakhouses, consider this your sign.

Plan Your Visit

Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply treating yourself to an unforgettable dinner, Maple & Ash is one of the standout Miami Spice experiences this season. From premium steaks and fresh seafood to decadent desserts and an atmosphere that’s as lively as the cuisine, it’s the kind of restaurant you’ll want to return to long after Miami Spice ends.

Located in the heart of Miami Worldcenter, Maple & Ash is just steps from Kaseya Center, making it an excellent choice before a concert, Miami Heat game, or an evening exploring downtown’s newest dining and entertainment district.

To view the complete Miami Spice menu, make a reservation, or learn more, visit https://www.mapleandash.com/miami.

Follow @mapleandash_miami on Instagram for signature dishes, seasonal specials, and a behind the scenes look at one of Miami’s most talked about steakhouses: https://www.instagram.com/mapleandash/

One of my favorite parts of Miami Spice is discovering restaurants that make you want to linger long after dessert. After attending a preview of Serafina‘s upcoming Miami Spice menu, I left thinking exactly that.

July 31, 2026

Nestled in the heart of Miami Worldcenter, Serafina feels like a little slice of Italy tucked into one of downtown Miami’s fastest growing neighborhoods. One of the first things I noticed was just how easy it is to visit. There’s a convenient parking garage attached to the building, and the restaurant opens onto a beautiful pedestrian promenade lined with bars, cafés, and restaurants. It has the kind of atmosphere that invites you to arrive early for a cocktail or stay late for a leisurely stroll after dinner.

Originally founded in New York, Serafina has earned an international following for its approachable Italian cuisine, welcoming hospitality, and stylish yet comfortable atmosphere. The Miami location carries on that tradition with handmade pastas, wood-fired pizzas, an extensive wine list, and one of the prettiest dining rooms in the neighborhood. (Greater Miami & Miami Beach)

For the preview, I tried several dishes that are expected to appear on this year’s Miami Spice menu, and every course reminded me why Italian food never goes out of style.

The house-made focaccia arrived warm with a perfectly chewy texture that made it almost impossible to stop reaching for another piece. It was simple, comforting, and exactly what great Italian bread should be.

Next came the Beef Carpaccio, which was one of my favorite dishes of the evening. Delicate slices of beef were topped with generous shavings of fresh truffle, peppery arugula, and crispy potatoes that added just the right amount of texture. Every bite felt balanced without being overly rich.

The Burrata and Prosciutto appetizer was equally impressive. Creamy burrata paired beautifully with thin slices of prosciutto and fresh greens, creating one of those classic combinations that never disappoints.

Pizza lovers will definitely want to order the Mortadella Pizza. The crust was beautifully thin and crisp while still maintaining that satisfying chew authentic Italian pizzas are known for. Topped with mortadella and finished with a drizzle of hot honey, it struck the perfect balance between savory and sweet.

For my entrée, I chose the Branzino served in a delicate white wine sauce. Light, fresh, and beautifully prepared, it allowed the quality of the fish to shine while keeping the flavors clean and elegant.

Of course, no visit to Serafina would be complete without mentioning its most famous dish.

The restaurant’s Lobster Ravioli has developed something of a celebrity following after receiving a shoutout from Drake in his song What Did I Miss? Since then, the dish has become one of Serafina‘s biggest attractions, and the presentation only adds to the experience. Servers deliver it wearing a sparkling sequined glove, turning one of the restaurant’s signature pastas into a memorable tableside moment that guests can’t help but photograph. (Instagram)

To accompany dinner, I ordered a glass of Emblem Cabernet Sauvignon by Robert Mondavi, which paired beautifully with the richer dishes. Bold enough to stand up to the carpaccio and pizza yet fruit forward enough to remain easy drinking, it also felt very reasonably priced for a restaurant of this caliber.

Then came dessert.

If you’re the type of person who says you’re “too full” before somehow finding room for something sweet, Serafina understands you perfectly. The dessert selection is outstanding, from classic Italian favorites like tiramisu and gelato to indulgent cheesecakes and seasonal specialties. It’s the kind of menu where sharing is encouraged because narrowing it down to just one is nearly impossible. (Greater Miami & Miami Beach)

Miami Spice is always about finding restaurants that deliver exceptional value without compromising quality, and Serafina does exactly that. Whether you’re planning a romantic date night, celebrating with friends, or simply looking for an excuse to enjoy outstanding Italian cuisine, this is one reservation I’d recommend making early.

One More Reason to Visit

One of the unexpected highlights of the evening was simply spending time at Miami Worldcenter. The area has transformed into one of downtown Miami’s most exciting neighborhoods, with beautifully landscaped pedestrian streets, outdoor dining, bars, cafés, and entertainment all within walking distance.

After dinner, it was easy to imagine grabbing a cocktail, wandering the promenade, or making a full evening of it before a concert or Heat game at nearby Kaseya Center. Serafina feels perfectly at home here, offering the kind of relaxed yet elevated dining experience that complements everything Miami Worldcenter has become.

Plan Your Visit

Serafina is located at Miami Worldcenter, just steps from Kaseya Center and some of downtown Miami’s newest attractions. With its beautiful outdoor promenade, easy parking, and inviting atmosphere, it’s an ideal destination before a concert, a Heat game, or simply a night out exploring the city.

To view the Miami Spice menu, make a reservation, or learn more, visit Serafina Miami.

Follow @serafinamiami on Instagram for menu updates, signature dishes, and a closer look at the famous Lobster Ravioli that has everyone talking.

If you’re looking for an excuse to celebrate National Tequila Day, Tacombi just gave you one.

July 29, 2026

I recently attended an intimate preview dinner at Tacombi Brickell, where the restaurant unveiled its new Tuna Tostada, introduced its beautiful new outdoor concept, The Tequila Garden, and gave guests a preview of its new Summer in Mexico campaign. After spending the evening sampling the menu, sipping tequila cocktails, and enjoying the lively patio atmosphere, I left convinced that this is one of Brickell’s best new happy hour destinations.

Tacombi has built a loyal following by bringing authentic Chilango-style tacos from Mexico City to the United States, and now it’s adding another reason to visit Miami’s Brickell neighborhood.

The star of the evening was the new Tuna Tostada, inspired by the fresh seafood traditions of Mexico’s Pacific coast. Light, refreshing, and packed with bright citrus flavors, it feels like it was made specifically for Miami’s endless summer. The crisp tostada provides the perfect crunch while the fresh tuna and herbs create a dish that’s both satisfying and surprisingly light.

Of course, no visit to Tacombi would be complete without tacos, and the curated tasting showcased exactly why the brand has become one of the country’s most beloved Mexican restaurants. Every dish highlighted simple, high-quality ingredients and authentic flavors that let the food speak for itself.

One of my favorite surprises of the evening was The Tequila Garden. Tacombi has transformed its spacious outdoor patio into a vibrant gathering space that feels equal parts neighborhood hangout and tropical escape. With string lights overhead, colorful cocktails, music filling the patio, and a live DJ creating the perfect soundtrack, it was easy to imagine spending an entire evening there with friends.

The tequila cocktails were excellent, but I also appreciated that Tacombi offered flavorful aguas frescas and thoughtfully crafted mocktails, making the experience enjoyable whether you’re drinking alcohol or not.

The launch of The Tequila Garden is part of Tacombi’s new Summer in Mexico campaign, which celebrates the warmth, hospitality, and vibrant flavors that define Mexican culture. Rather than treating National Tequila Day as a one day promotion, Tacombi is creating a season long experience with community events, specialty cocktails, live entertainment, and neighborhood gatherings throughout the summer.

If you missed the preview, you can still join the celebration. During National Tequila Day festivities, guests who purchase a qualifying cocktail or nonalcoholic cocktail can receive a complimentary Tuna Tostada, making it one of Brickell’s best food and drink specials. Even after the celebration ends, the Tuna Tostada will remain on the menu, and The Tequila Garden will continue hosting events all summer long.

Whether you’re stopping by for tacos after work, meeting friends for margaritas at golden hour, or simply looking for one of Brickell’s liveliest patios, Tacombi delivers an experience that’s relaxed, welcoming, and full of personality. After my preview dinner, I already know I’ll be back.

Plan Your Visit

Tacombi has locations in both Brickell and Miami Beach, with the new Tuna Tostada now available as part of its seasonal menu.

Learn more or make plans to visit at https://www.tacombi.com.

Follow @TacombiMiami on Instagram for upcoming events, seasonal cocktails, and everything happening at The Tequila Garden: https://www.instagram.com/tacombimiami.

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I Got a First Taste of MAYAMI’s Miami Spice Menu, and I’m Already Planning My Return

July 28, 2026

There are restaurants you visit for dinner, and then there are restaurants you visit for an experience. MAYAMI has always been one of those places where the atmosphere is just as memorable as the food, so I was excited to attend an exclusive preview of its new Miami Spice menu before the season officially begins. After spending the evening there, I can confidently say this is one you’ll want to add to your Miami Spice list.

From the moment I walked into MAYAMI, I was reminded why this spot has become such a favorite in Wynwood. The lush tropical setting, beautiful design, and lively entertainment immediately set the tone for the evening. It feels like you’ve stepped into a completely different world where dinner naturally flows into one of Miami’s most exciting nights out.

The preview was fantastic from start to finish. MAYAMI’s three-course Miami Spice menu showcases the restaurant’s signature blend of Mexican- and Asian-inspired flavors, and every course impressed me. The Toro and Ora King Salmon Carpaccio was incredibly fresh, the Black Truffle Beef Gyoza was packed with rich flavor, and the Tropical Ceviche was bright, refreshing, and perfect for a warm South Florida evening.

My favorite entrée was the Achiote Ancho Short Rib. It was tender, beautifully prepared, and full of bold flavor. Dessert was just as memorable. The Valrhona 80% Brownie was rich and decadent, while the Passion Fruit Panna Cotta offered a lighter, refreshing finish to the meal.

As incredible as the food was, what makes MAYAMI so special is the atmosphere. Throughout the evening, live entertainment kept the energy high, creating an experience that felt far beyond a traditional dinner. It is the kind of place where you can celebrate a birthday, enjoy a date night, or simply gather with friends for an unforgettable evening.

If you’re planning your Miami Spice reservations this year, I highly recommend putting MAYAMI on your list. I left genuinely impressed by the food, the service, and the overall experience. It reminded me why Miami Spice is one of my favorite times of the year to explore the city’s dining scene. This is more than just a great meal. It’s a night out you’ll be talking about long after the last bite.

Plan Your Visit

If you’re looking for a Miami Spice dinner that combines incredible food with an unforgettable atmosphere, MAYAMI should absolutely be on your list this season.

To view the full menu, make reservations, or learn more, visit MAYAMI Wynwood.

For a behind the scenes look at the restaurant’s live entertainment, signature dishes, and upcoming events, follow MAYAMI on Instagram at @mayamiwynwood.