Morimoto South Beach is Ready for its Close Up

It’s been a long time coming—Haute Living spoke to Masaharu Morimoto back in February about his new restaurant opening at the newly renovated Shelborne Wyndham Grand. But good things come to those who wait, and this beautiful restaurant, designed under the direction of the chef, in warm, copper hues by Tokyo-based Glamorous Group, is no exception.

Starting today, Iron Chef fans can head to this already scene-y hotspot and try his famous fare for themselves. In case you have not yet been to one of his haunts, just know that the ingredients are both Japanese and Western in origin, but created with traditional Japanese culinary sensibilities and techniques.

First off, you’ll want to try one of Morimoto’s sakes, which are offered in 5-year and 10-year incarnations. To get the best cuisine this unique menu has to offer, you’ll have to order the Hamachi Tacos, the Spicy King Crab and the Tuna Pizza to start. With Mr. Morimoto’s years of sushi experience, of course, all of the sushi items nail it. You can read more about him here. 

Wagyu dishes are pricy, but worth it, while dishes like Duck Duck Duck, offer a new take on the classic Duck 5-ways. While desserts and expert pastry chefs are not synonymous with Asian cuisine, desserts stand out. The Bread Pudding is served warm with a ribbon of coconut cream and is to die for. Sorbets are made in house, and the Salty Carmel Chocolate Tart comes with a large chocolate sphere that dramatically melts under a hot shot of rum. Need we say more?