Restaurants

Willie T’s Seafood Shack – Review

Published

3 years ago

January 19, 2023

Cary Levinson

Willie T’s Seafood Shack and Thompson Hospitality are making a splash in South Florida.

January 12th, 2023

by Cary Levinson

From Thompson Hospitality, one of the largest retail food service management companies in the USA, Willie T’s Seafood Shack pays homage to its roots while serving up the freshest seafood possible. Located in a detached corner segment of the Harbor Shops in East Fort Lauderdale, a large shopping center near Port Everglades and the airport, the “shack” moniker is fitting. Offering both indoor and outdoor seating, with televisions to catch the game, and a large hip-hop inspired mural, the cozy space is both casual and cool.

Before ordering, I sat down with the boss-man behind the counter, Todd Frankel Jean, to discuss the new restaurant. Todd explained that the concept was inspired by the grandfather of the founder of Thompson Hospitality, Willis “Willie” Thompson, who operated a seafood truck, selling fried catfish. He explained that through some good food, they are hoping to bring together generations of families and empower success in the local minority community. To do that the brand’s Operating Partner Program gives operators the chance to take an ownership share in the restaurants.

Looking at the menu, it’s hard to miss the impressive range of comfort food options including fried shrimp, fried catfish, fried cod, lobster rolls, sandwiches, and fried chicken tenders. As for lighter entrée options, grilled shrimp and grilled catfish were also available, but I didn’t try either. Available sides offered no break from the comfort food vibes, with fried onion petals, fries, hush puppies, coleslaw and mac & cheese. To wash it all down, in addition to soft drinks, beer, wine, hard seltzer and Frosé are available.

After ordering, the open kitchen allowed me to watch the food be prepared fresh. No reheated, soggy food here. Everything was prepared fresh with love and care. What really set Willie T’s Seafood Shack apart from the rest of the local seafood restaurants was the fried catfish, which was perfectly flaky, with just the right amount of fish fry seasoning and super crispiness. Additionally, the top selling lobster roll was buttery and rich, and kicked up with some spicy sauce on the side. However, the fried shrimp was no slouch either. Jumbo, tender, crispy and perfectly seasoned it nearly brought a tear to my eye. From the shrimp to the catfish to the onion petals, everything was right on point, fried fresh and absolutely satisfying.

The South Florida seafood restaurant scene can be fancy and expensive, but amongst the more pretentious neighbors, Willie T’s prices are excellent. With more Willie T’s Seafood Shack locations on deck and other Thompson Hospitality restaurants planned throughout South Florida get ready to dig in!

Willie T’s Seafood shack is located at 1824 Cordova Rd. Fort Lauderdale, FL.

For more information visit www.williesseafoodshack.com

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Restaurants

Takay Omakase Miami Opening on Coral Way Brings an Intimate 10 Seat Dining Experience

Published

1 month ago

March 17, 2026

McKaela Lulic

This 10-seat omakase opening in Miami is about to be one of the hardest reservations to get. Takay on Coral Way combines high-level sushi, intentional design, and a guest experience that feels personal from start to finish.

March 17, 2026

Miami, if you love a beautifully done omakase, this is one to have on your radar.

There is a new omakase concept opening this spring on Coral Way, and it already feels like the kind of place people will be trying to get into early. Takay is an intimate 10-seat experience created by founders Glen Kotlyarski and Yoni Matz, bringing together serious culinary pedigree with a very intentional, guest-focused vision.

Let’s start with the people behind it, because that is really what defines this concept.

Chef Glen Kotlyarski leads the culinary experience, bringing more than 2 decades of fine-dining expertise. His background includes the Jean Georges group and Miami’s Michelin-starred Hidden, and that level of precision and discipline is felt in every course. His approach draws from traditional Edomae sushi techniques, while staying grounded in seasonality and balance.

Alongside him, co-founder Yoni Matz brings a strong hospitality perspective shaped by years of building and operating restaurant concepts. His influence is clear in the overall experience, which is designed to feel warm, welcoming, and engaging rather than overly formal or intimidating.

And you feel that from the moment you arrive.

The space, designed by Japan based architecture firm KTX, is quietly stunning. Guests enter through a Japanese Zen garden, setting a calm and intentional tone before stepping inside. The interior blends traditional Japanese craftsmanship with subtle Miami influence, featuring natural materials, soft lighting, and a sculptural wooden wave installation inspired by The Great Wave off Kanagawa. The entire room is designed to slow you down and bring your attention fully into the experience.

Takay’s omakase follows a classic Edomae style, with two nightly seatings, each centered on a 17- or 20-course progression. Seafood is flown in from Japan and paired with seasonal ingredients from local farms, allowing the menu to evolve continuously.

The experience moves through sashimi, nigiri, and composed dishes, with each course prepared directly in front of guests and thoughtfully explained. It feels interactive, personal, and immersive, making the entire evening feel intentional.

It strikes that rare balance where the experience feels polished and high-level, but still comfortable enough to fully enjoy without overthinking it.

When it opens, Takay will offer a 17-course signature omakase at $225 per person and a 20-course extended omakase at $275. Each seating includes a welcome beverage, with optional sake, champagne, and wine pairings available.

Takay is located at 2296 Coral Way in Miami and will be open Tuesday through Saturday with seatings at 6 pm and 9 pm.

In a city known for large, high-energy dining scenes, Takay introduces something a little more intimate and intentional. It is the kind of place that focuses on the details, and those are usually the ones that stand out the most.

Reservations are expected to be limited. Learn more HERE