About Kaori Mediterranean and Asian Cuisine
Kaori Miami is a sleek two-story restaurant and hi-fi listening lounge in Brickell, blending modern Asian flavors with Mediterranean influences. The venue spans about 4,500 ft² and can seat roughly 120 guests (with room for ~200 standing) (www.partyslate.com ). It was originally launched in 2016 by celebrity chef Walter Martino (famous as the “Million Dollar Chef” for creating a €1M dish) (www.miaminewtimes.com ) (miami.eater.com ). After a hiatus, Kaori reopened in May 2021 under new ownership (Umai Group), led by chefs Fabrizio Garofolin and later Seth Fatah (www.miamiculinarytours.com ) (lmgfl.com ). Its decor mixes “wabi-sabi” and minimalist design: concrete floors and wooden accents bring warmth, lush greenery adds natural tones, and a dramatic sculptural staircase with illuminated origami birds connects the floors (www.partyslate.com ) (www.lovethatdesign.com ). The first-floor “Listening Bar” is an analog-inspired cocktail lounge with custom Danley Audio speakers and a dance floor (www.partyslate.com ) (www.kaorimiami.com ), while the second floor offers a light-filled dining room and open kitchen with panoramic views of Brickell. Kaori’s menu is often described as an eclectic fusion that “balances the two worlds of Mediterranean and Asian cuisine” (www.miamiculinarytours.com ) (www.miamiculinarytours.com ). This approach won it praise – the MICHELIN Guide called Kaori a “cut above the rest” in Brickell’s bustling scene (www.tripadvisor.ie ). Signature touches include creative small plates (like Wagyu&Foie gyoza or Spicy Udon noodles (resident.com )) and innovative cocktails using Asian ingredients. In short, Kaori stands out as Miami’s hybrid of elegant dining and audiophile bar, making it a notable destination for both food and music lovers.
Events and Programming
Kaori isn’t just a restaurant; it’s an entertainment spot with regular nightlife programming. The first floor Listening Bar hosts DJs and curated music sets multiple nights a week. In fact, Kaori launched its “Sound Sessions” series in 2022 – Fridays and Saturdays feature rotating local DJs in genres from disco and house to Latin and world music (www.miamiculinarytours.com ). More generally, Thursdays through Saturdays (roughly 8pm–midnight) see live DJ sets and hi-fi vinyl nights (lmgfl.com ). For example, during World Music Month the venue customizes its playlist and even throws special events (one-day features or DJ takeovers) to mark holidays or themes (lmgfl.com ) (lmgfl.com ). Another example was a “Miami Sound Bar” takeover night (a disco-themed evening) headlined by DJs Frny and Tian (ra.co ). Most events in the lounge area are free to attend, though reservations or RSVP are recommended on busy nights (especially for Premium seating or large groups). On top of music, Kaori occasionally hosts ticketed special dining events or collaborations, but there’s no fixed ticket outlet – most updates are posted via Kaori’s website or local event listings.
Reservations and Pricing
Kaori operates primarily as a reservation-only restaurant; there is no traditional box office or ticket outlet. To dine, you should book a table in advance – either online (the Kaori website links to Resy) or by phone (ask to speak to reservations) (www.kaorimiami.com ) (www.miamiculinarytours.com ). Weekends and special nights book up quickly, so planning ahead is wise. As for cost, Kaori is an upscale venue: entrees typically range from about $30 to $50 per person (www.opentable.com ). OpenTable lists its price range as “$31 to $50” (www.opentable.com ). Specialty dishes and omakase experiences can run higher; for instance, the original concept had $300–$700 tasting menus. Cocktails often range $15–$20 or more, and the curated wine and sake list includes high-end bottles. However, Kaori offers deals at happy hour (see below). Gratuity isn’t automatically added – it’s customary to tip around 18–20% for good service. Overall, expect a fine-dining bill similar to other Brickell high-end spots; sharing small plates can help manage per-person costs.
Seating and Layout
Physically, Kaori is laid out over two floors with multiple dining zones. The ground floor is the Listening Bar lounge, which includes a linear bar counter, cocktail seating, high-top tables, and a small dance floor beneath a wood-paneled ceiling (www.partyslate.com ) (www.kaorimiami.com ). Guests entering see the bar area first; further back is the sound-focused lounge with seating facing the DJ booth. A wide staircase with lit origami bird art leads upstairs. The upper floor is dedicated to the restaurant dining room: a soaring-ceiling space with an open kitchen and floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking Brickell. That level is broken into three main sections (with natural dividers and wooden screens), plus a private dining room called “3Yume” that seats about 20 (www.partyslate.com ). According to PartySlate, the entire venue can seat 120 diners at once, or up to 200 standing during events (www.partyslate.com ).
For the best experience: if you want the full restaurant vibe and views, aim for a table upstairs, especially by the windows for a city outlook. The open kitchen adds liveliness too. If you’re there for the music and lounge atmosphere, ground-floor seating near the bar or front area is ideal. Acoustically, the Danley sound system is most impactful in the Listening Bar, so those tables get the clearest audio. Avoid quiet dining during DJ sets? If noise is a concern, choose upstairs on weekdays (little music) or visit for an early dinner. VIP sections: besides the private room, there’s no formal VIP area – sometimes event promoters reserve a small elevated booth by the DJ, but this is only by invite, not everyday. Coat check and restroom areas are on the main level, so plan accordingly.
Getting There and Parking
Kaori is centrally located at 871 South Miami Avenue in Brickell (next to the SLS LUX Hotel) (www.kaorimiami.com ). This puts it in downtown Miami’s financial district. Driving: valet parking is available (often through the SLS hotel entrance) and there is some street parking nearby (www.partyslate.com ). Note that Brickell parking meters run until 6pm on weekdays, so evenings become free, but spaces are still limited. Public garages at Brickell City Centre or nearby condo buildings can be used (bring extra time).
By public transit, Brickell is very well connected. The Metrorail’s Brickell Station (about a 0.3-mile walk north on South Miami Ave) serves both the Green and Orange lines (moovitapp.com ). The free Metromover people-mover also stops at Brickell City Centre and Brickell stations within a few blocks. Bus routes such as #24, 44, 207, and the airport-affiliated MIA Mover express pass along Brickell Ave near Kaori (moovitapp.com ). (Check Miami-Dade schedules – service usually ends around midnight.) For rideshares, drop-off at the front door is easy via S Miami Ave or park at the hotel porte-cochère. Walking from nearby: Kaori is a block from Brickell City Centre mall and about 10 minutes on foot from Bayfront Park, so it’s easy to include in a night out downtown.
Inside the Venue
Upon arrival at Kaori, staff politely check your reservation name and seat you with a warm welcome. The atmosphere is trendy and intimate: mood lighting downstairs for the lounge, brighter natural light upstairs. Music is a constant – expect tasteful DJ sets or curated playlists even during dinner, though at low volume on weeknights. The general vibe is upscale-casual, with a chic crowd.
The menu emphasizes shareable plates and fine sushi/sashimi. Executive Chef Seth Fatah (formerly Fabrizio Garofolin) creates fusion dishes using local, seasonal ingredients (lmgfl.com ). For example, the menu might include items like A5 Wagyu beef cuts, ceviches, or inventive rolls. There’s an adventurous cocktail program run by a noted mixologist (James McElenes) that incorporates Asian ingredients (www.miamiculinarytours.com ), plus an innovative wine and sake list curated by experts (www.miamiculinarytours.com ). During happy hour (5–7pm daily), bar bites are heavily discounted (as low as ~$1.50–$2 for certain specials) (lmgfl.com ). After dinner, the Listening Bar on the ground floor truly comes alive: cocktails flow and dancing may occur.
Amenities: Kaori offers free Wi-Fi throughout (www.partyslate.com ). There’s coat-check available near the entrance (www.partyslate.com ) (handy on cooler nights). Restrooms are on the main floor and fully ADA-accessible. The venue even has full A/V equipment listed for events (www.partyslate.com ), plus a small dance floor downstairs (www.partyslate.com ). While Kaori does post an eclectic music playlist and encourages photos (social-media friendly decor), be mindful there are no performance recordings or professional gear allowed without permission.
Nearby Amenities
Kaori sits in a vibrant area of Brickell, so there are many nearby options. For dinner or drinks before an event, the ground floor of SLS LUX (where Kaori is) has additional bars. A short walk brings you to Brickell City Centre (300 S. Biscayne Blvd) with many restaurants (Zuma, Casa Tua, DD&P, Brickell Key Grill) and bars (Sugar rooftop, Edge rooftop at JW Marriott). Other nearby dining spots include Pubbelly Sushi (3 blocks north) and Komodo (Siamese Asian-fusion at Brickell City Center).
For nightlife, popular pre- or post-dinner bars include Sugar RoofTop Bar (on the EAST hotel next door) and Area 31 (Ritz-Carlton). Lodging: the SLS Hotel itself is attached to Kaori, and other nearby hotels are W Miami and Novotel Brickell (a block away), as well as the JW Marriott Marquis. The Brickell Trolley (free city shuttle) stops at Mary St & S Miami Ave, connecting to Coral Gables and the Miami Beach Trolley.
Plan to arrive at least 15–30 minutes early for dinner or reservations to avoid parking delays. Evening traffic in Brickell can be heavy, so allow extra time. If staying late, note that the Miami-Dade metro system shuts down around midnight, so taxis or rideshares will be needed past then.
What Makes This Venue Special
Kaori’s unique blend of fine dining and audiophile culture is unprecedented in Miami. Its state-of-the-art Danley sound system and vinyl-centric “Listening Bar” set it apart – reviewers even call it Miami’s best audiophile bar (lmgfl.com ) (resident.com ). The restaurant seamlessly fuses Japanese and Mediterranean design elements into a warm, organic space (www.lovethatdesign.com ) (www.lovethatdesign.com ). Notably, its inclusion in the MICHELIN Guide (awarded “Good cooking”) highlights the quality of the food (www.tripadvisor.ie ). Kaori also has a bit of legend: the original restaurant was known for theatrical touches (360° wall projections and $1M dishes) (www.miaminewtimes.com ) (miami.eater.com ). Today, locals love it for its “sound-first” concept and chef-driven menu. Both diners and artists often praise Kaori as a destination where flavorful cuisine, thoughtful design and eclectic music come together in a single immersive experience (resident.com ) (lmgfl.com ).
Visitor Tips and Information
Kaori is wheelchair-accessible and welcomes guests of allMobility needs at any time. The venue is also pet-friendly (you can bring small dogs downstairs during lounge hours) (www.partyslate.com ). Bring a valid I.D.: while families can dine during dinner hours, the lounge becomes 21+ only after 9PM (ID will be checked for late-night DJs). The dress code is upscale casual – think stylish evening wear. Avoid athletic shorts or tank tops. Photography is allowed for fun, but use of tripods or professional video requires permission. No outside food or drinks are permitted.
Tipping is customary; service staff typically look for 20% on dinner bills (tipping is not pre-added). Observe local etiquette: residents often arrive fashionably late for evening events, so you can time arrival around your reservation. Enjoy the complimentary Wi-Fi and consider visiting during weekday happy hour (5–7PM) to try inexpensive bar snacks (we recommend the ~$1–$3 hushpuppies or mini dumplings) (lmgfl.com ). Allow extra travel time on weekends, and be aware last train/trolley departures are around midnight (so plan a cab or rideshare if staying late). Finally, join Kaori’s email or follow its social media for occasional secret pop-up events or ticketed DJ nights.
Do I need to buy tickets for Kaori Miami?
No, Kaori doesn’t sell individual event tickets like a concert hall. It’s primarily a restaurant, so you make a reservation rather than buy tickets. Reservations can be made online (via Resy) or by calling the restaurant. There is typically no extra cover charge for lounge nights, though reservations fill up quickly on weekends. Simply book a table and arrive to enjoy Kaori.
Is there a cover charge or entrance fee to enter Kaori?
Generally, no. For dining, you pay for your meals and drinks only. The bar/lounge area is free to enter after you are seated or have a reservation. On special nights, the venue may offer ticketed events (like guest DJs), but those are rare. In normal operation, there’s no separate “door fee.” You do need to reserve a table for dinner during busy periods, but that is free to set up.
Where is Kaori Miami located?
Kaori is in downtown Miami\'s Brickell neighborhood. The exact address is 871 South Miami Avenue, Miami, FL 33130 (www.kaorimiami.com ). It’s on the ground level of the SLS LUX Brickell hotel building, between 8th and 9th Streets. This is a few blocks south of Brickell City Centre.
What are the parking options and costs at Kaori?
You’ll find both on-street and valet parking near Kaori. Meters line Brickell Avenue and nearby streets (many are free after 6PM), and you may pay by credit card at kiosks. The SLS Hotel offers valet service for Kaori guests (usually around $10–$15 when busy). There are also public parking garages in Brickell City Centre and nearby condos (expect $5–10 per hour). Because parking is limited, many visitors prefer ridesharing (drop-offs allowed at the front).
How can I get to Kaori by public transit?
Brickell has excellent transit. The Miami Metrorail (Orange/Green lines) stops at Brickell Station, just a few blocks north of Kaori (moovitapp.com ). You can also take the Metromover (free downtown people-mover); the Brickell City Centre or Brickell Metromover stops will drop you within a 10-minute walk. Several Metrobus routes (including routes 24, 207, 109 and the MIA airport bus) serve South Miami Ave or Brickell. The city’s free Brickell Trolley (Mary St route) stops nearby. After midnight, remember trains shut down, so plan a rideshare or cab for late nights.
What is the seating layout and capacity at Kaori?
Kaori has two floors and multiple seating areas. Overall it seats about 120 guests (and up to 200 standing) (www.partyslate.com ). The ground floor is a lounge/bar (The Listening Bar) with couches, high-top tables and a small dance floor. Upstairs is the main dining area with an open kitchen and city views, divided into three zones plus a 20-seat private “3Yume” room (www.partyslate.com ). The space is designed with an open stairway so both levels feel connected. For best sound, choose ground-floor lounge seats near the speakers; for views and full dinner service, choose upstairs tables.
Where are the best seats in Kaori?
It depends on your priority. If you want great ambiance with Brickell views, book one of the upstairs window tables in the main dining room (www.lovethatdesign.com ). For a lively party vibe or best audio, sit downstairs near the DJ booth/bar in the Listening Bar. Beach Island seating (near plants or along the back wall) can offer some privacy for conversation. The private 3Yume room (2nd floor) is ideal for small parties seeking extra privacy. You may specify preferences when reserving, and the host will do their best to accommodate.
Does Kaori have a VIP or private dining area?
Yes. Upstairs there is a private dining room called “3Yume” which seats about 20 people comfortably (www.partyslate.com ). It’s ideal for special occasions or corporate events. There’s also the main bar lounge downstairs which occasionally hosts VIP guests or brand activations (though it’s not a fixed VIP booth). For a fully private experience you can inquire about chartering the entire lounge or the 3Yume room. Otherwise most seating is general admission (aside from 3Yume).
Is Kaori wheelchair accessible?
Yes. Kaori is fully wheelchair accessible. There is step-free access on the ground floor, and an elevator provides access to the second-floor dining area. Restrooms are ADA compliant as well. The venue’s amenities explicitly list “Handicap Accessible” (www.partyslate.com ). Do let the host know any accessibility needs when booking, so that your experience can be fully accommodated.
What is the dress code at Kaori?
Kaori’s vibe is upscale-casual. On weeknights, most guests dress neatly (e.g. collared shirts, blouses, nice jeans or dresses). On weekends, especially in the bar lounge, people often dress more fashionably (cocktail attire, heels, etc.). The rule of thumb: no athletic gear, no flip-flops or overly casual beachwear. Jackets and ties aren’t required. If you’re unsure, business casual to smart evening wear is always safe. During special events (like DJ nights), a more polished look is common.
Are there age restrictions at Kaori?
Kaori welcomes all ages for dinner, but keep in mind it is an evening venue. After about 9PM the lounge floor turns into a club-like bar and typically enforces a 21+ policy. You will need to show ID if you are visiting the bar lounge at night. Families are common at early dinner service (especially before 9PM), but note that view and music volume might not be ideal for young children. Service animals are of course allowed at any time.
Does Kaori offer Wi-Fi for customers?
Yes. Complimentary Wi-Fi is available to guests throughout Kaori (www.partyslate.com ). When you sit down, the staff will often ask if you’d like the network password (or it may be listed on the menu or bill). This applies to both the restaurant upstairs and the bar downstairs, so you can work or browse the web while dining or socializing.
Is Kaori pet-friendly?
Yes, Kaori is pet-friendly (www.partyslate.com ). You will sometimes see small dogs in the lounge area downstairs. If you plan to bring a pet, try to seat in the back lounge or an outdoor-adjacent area (though Kaori itself is fully indoors). Generally, service animals are welcome anywhere. As with any restaurant, keep pets on a leash and well-behaved, and let the staff know ahead of time.
Is there a coat check at Kaori?
Yes. Kaori provides a coat check for guests (www.partyslate.com ). You can hand off overcoats or large bags at the entrance. This is especially convenient during cooler months. The coat check is usually free of charge, though it’s polite to tip the attendant a dollar or two when retrieving your items.
Does Kaori have a happy hour?
Yes. Kaori runs a daily happy hour in the bar/lounge from 5pm to 7pm (www.kaorimiami.com ). During this time, select appetizers and cocktails are offered at a discount – small plates can be as little as $1.50–$3 and drinks usually $7–$10. Recent specials (per a 2025 press release) included gourmet bites up to $24, but often under $10 for most items (lmgfl.com ). Tip: arriving at 5pm lets you enjoy the full happy hour before the dinner rush.
What are Kaori’s opening hours?
According to the Kaori website, dining service hours are Monday–Wednesday 6PM–10PM and Thursday–Saturday 6PM–1AM (the restaurant is closed on Sundays) (www.kaorimiami.com ). However, the bar/lounge (Listening Bar) is open starting at 5PM, closing at 11PM Monday–Wednesday and at 1AM on Thurs–Sat (www.kaorimiami.com ) (www.kaorimiami.com ). Always double-check current hours online before going, as holidays or events may alter the schedule.
Can I bring outside food or takeout into Kaori?
No. Outside food or drinks (including takeout from other restaurants) are not permitted. Kaori’s staff politely enforces a no outside-provisions policy, as it is a fine-dining venue. You’re welcome to take home leftovers in containers provided by Kaori, but do not bring any other items into the restaurant.
What does “Listening Bar” mean at Kaori?
The “Listening Bar” is Kaori’s downstairs lounge concept. It’s a cocktail bar focused on high-fidelity audio (hence the name) (www.kaorimiami.com ). Here, guests enjoy Asian-inspired cocktails and small plates in a space specifically designed for great sound (www.kaorimiami.com ). The goal is to provide an intimate listening experience (live DJs, vinyl music) rather than a rowdy nightclub. It’s basically the bar side of Kaori that celebrates music as part of the dining experience. (resident.com )
Are dress shoes required for Kaori?
No, formal dress shoes are not required, but footwear should be neat. Guests usually wear nice loafers, heels, or trendy sneakers. Avoid beach sandals or flip-flops. Essentially dress in upscale casual attire. For a relaxed dinner in the early evening, business-casual shoes are fine, while for late-night lounge visits, people often dress up more elegantly. The key is to look polished and not too casual.
