Does that say FAT or is that just the result of eating too much at Kaido? *

Set within the stylish revival of Miami’s Design District, Kaido easily earns its place in “Paradise” Plaza. The interior design with its lush fabrics, high gloss, and shimmery surfaces, plus enough details to discover a new corner with every visit, evokes a feeling of mystery and sophistication. A fixture with 1200 exposed knives lingers dead-center above the bar and demands immediate attention. In stark contrast to Alter’s unapologetic concrete and graffiti vibe, this chic Japanese-inspired cocktail lounge stunner raises the bar with more than just expertly handcrafted sips. Chef-owner Kilgore explains, “There are many facets of Kaido that make it one of a kind. The name helps define the concept. Kaido is short for Hokkaido, which is known for its seafood and especially the sea urchin. Also if you separate the Kanji it can mean ‘Curious one, he who asks a lot of questions.’ This perfectly defines why myself and Nico de Soto, clearly not Japanese, are inspired by and curious about Japanese flavors, ingredients, and techniques.”

With its cocktails and a carefully curated bites menu in which to indulge, this is one splurge-worthy and important arrival for South Florida: an untapped niche, until now. Kaido, a sharp pivot from the popular tropical-themed Miami drinking dens, is closer to being our very own kind of (The) Aviary. And it’s about damn time.

What I’ve tried:

A5 Wagyu Katsu Sando

Florida Fugu

Hamachi Sashimi

Nurungi Rice Cake

Ibérico pork and shrimp dumplings

Grilled Foie Gras

Uni Fondue

Korean Style Short Ribs

Black Grouper

As for future goals, Kilgore hopes Kaido can be “established as one of the top cocktail bars on the East Coast and known that the food and drinks are looked at as equals. Also, we are getting a following for incredible Japanese whiskeys.” Cheers to that!

Tips:

Park below in the Paradise Plaza garage. Translation: you don’t need an umbrella! Ever.

Take the elevator to the second floor and find the lounge directly in front of you once the doors open.

Make a reservation on OpenTable to secure a table and maximize your cocktail experience by pairing them with unforgettable small plates off the a la carte menu. (MUST: Uni Fondue).

If available, move to AMA (secret lounge within Kaido) once it opens later in the night for a change of scenery (and ’90s hip hop).

Kaido
151 NE 41st, Unit 117
Miami, FL 33137

(786) 409-5591

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* Unfortunately, some mobile users might see this image on its side. I have not been able to correct it…yet.