In the South Florida region, there are any number of all-you-can-eat sushi purveyors, but then there’s Zaka Modern Japanese Cuisine. This popular sushi restaurant located in Doral, Miami—also with a Boca Raton location—is known for its fresh ingredients, creative sushi rolls and modern atmosphere.
Having become a go-to spot for sushi lovers in the Miami area, the restaurant offers a wide variety of sushi rolls, including classic favorites like California rolls and spicy tuna rolls, as well as more innovative creations such as the Zaka Bomb Roll replete with crab, avocado and sweet plantain topped with crab, avocado, Ikura, seaweed salad and Fuji sauce.
In addition to sushi rolls, the menu also includes other Japanese favorites such as Udon and Ramen noodles, teriyaki and katsu chicken and more. One of the standout features of Zaka is the quality of its ingredients. The restaurant prides itself on using only the freshest fish and seafood, sourced from reputable suppliers and delivered to the restaurant daily. This commitment to quality is evident in every bite of sushi, which is expertly prepared and beautifully presented.
The restaurant’s modern and stylish decor also adds to the dining experience. The sleek interior features sophisticated though vibrant design elements, including wood and stone accents, bright mural artwork and ambient lighting. The result is a chic and inviting atmosphere that is perfect for a night out with friends or a romantic dinner for two.
But, what makes Zaka a true standout is its approach to the all-you-can-eat sushi paradigm. All-you-can-eat sushi options have become a popular trend in recent years, with restaurants around the world offering customers the opportunity to indulge in unlimited amounts of sushi in a format that allows diners to try new and creative combinations. This makes it an appealing option for customers who are looking for new and exciting culinary experiences.
However, the all-you-can-eat sushi concept has not been without stigma, oft relegated to the perception of budget or basic buffets. Zaka is single handedly changing that view with its elevated all-you-can-eat sushi and Japanese cuisine experience offered as an adjunct to its regular à la carte menu. In fact, as a hospitality pioneer, Zaka reports that its upscale Doral location is the first restaurant in the Miami region that offered an all-you-can-eat sushi model.
The 90-minute culinary adventure entails a mix of wait staff-delivered hot entrées and Izakaya (small plate) kitchen fare, with options for Pork Belly Bun, Grilled Korean Short Ribs, Mango Shrimp Ceviche, Hibachi Steak with Fried Rice, Spicy Chicken Ramen and Chicken Pad Thai among them.
But, it’s the quality of its nigari and sashimi, and the creativity of the full 5-piece sushi roll options, that make this menu a true standout. These include:
Miami Heat Roll: Tempura shrimp, spicy crab salad, cucumber and masago topped with tuna, masago, green tempura flakes and microgreensCowboy Roll: Eel, tempura shrimp, cream cheese and cucumber topped with tuna tataki, green tempura flakes, fish eggs and eel sauceVolcano Roll: Crab, cream cheese and cucumber topped with avocado, baked crab, Japanese mayo and masagoMango Tango Roll: Tempura shrimp and cucumber topped with fresh mango, avocado, green tempura, mango purée and red tobikoGreen Dragon Roll: Salmon, tempura shrimp and cucumber topped with spicy tuna, avocado and tempura flakesMad Tuna Roll: Spicy tuna and avocado topped with tuna, jalapeño, black tobiko and ponzu sauceDoral Roll: Soy paper roll with tempura chicken katsu and cream cheese topped with crawfish salad and tempura flakes
I also must note that the lovely and purposeful plating and presentation of the sushi fare was as appealing to the eyes as it was on the palate. I also appreciated the nod Zaka makes to Miami heritage with numerous offerings uniquely featuring plantain and mango ingredients.
During my dinner service visit, I had also opted for the “deluxe” all-you-can-eat menu option that included piping hot and fresh Snow Crab Legs and adult beverage inclusion. Speaking of which, Zaka’s Instagram worthy cocktail program is equally impressive, with drink selections available by the glass or bottle, including premium-grade sake selections and inventive craft cocktails. My favorite selection of the evening was The Lychee Lady—an elixir of sake, lychee juice, pomegranate, passion fruit and sugar.
Dessert at Zaka also does not disappoint. On the evening of my own visit, I indulged in the delectable Thai Donuts laden with chocolate and berry sauce, and a large pound cake-wrapped Tempura Ice Cream ball also drizzled with chocolaty goodness—both meal enders that were to-die-for.
As all-you-can-eat sushi continuing to be a popular trend, Zaka Modern Japanese Cuisine in South Florida’s Doral, Miami and Boca Raton regions is a must-visit for sushi lovers in the area. From its fresh ingredients and creative sushi rolls to its modern atmosphere and excellent service, Zaka is a standout restaurant that is sure to impress. Whether you seek an all-you-can-eat adventure or a traditional dining experience, it’s the perfect spot to satisfy your sushi cravings…and then some.
Zaka owner Jack Zhao is aptly translating his a passion for food, along with beautiful interiors and furnishings, into a commitment to bring the best Asian food—and dining experience at large—to South Florida. A serial entrepreneur with business across numerous sectors, Zhao endeavors to be is a true symbol of the American dream who always strives for the best … and inspires the same in others. With Zaka Modern Japanese Cuisine he duly hit the mark.
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***Some or all of the accommodations(s), experience(s), item(s) and/or service(s) detailed above may have been provided or arranged at no cost to accommodate if this is review editorial, but all opinions expressed are entirely those of Merilee Kern and have not been influenced in any way.***
