I am proficient in Japanese cuisine — know my way around sake, nigiri and the increasingly popular robatayaki (Japan’s very own grilling style). But one meal at Takato overlooking Fort Lauderdale’s postcard-perfect beach and I find myself as stunned, awed and impressed as a newbie fan learning to handle a pair of chopsticks.
Shikoku Margarita
If ever there was a worthy name for a restaurant, it would be Takato. Meaning “in a state of extreme happiness” diners enter a realm of culinary ecstasy from the first bite until the last nibble of dessert. For those on a first date, fair warning: you will both be too busy connecting with the food to care to engage in small talk with your potential soulmate.
There are so many fabulous ways to start your experience here, but I’d suggest grabbing a spot at the show-stopping bar of the modern and bright eatery and begin with a cocktail. There’s something for every mood here. Shikoku Margarita offers a refreshing and slightly smoky blend of tequila, mezcal, passion fruit, cardamon and agave, while the Kentucky Drifter delivers a welcoming union of ginger bourbon, raspberry marmalade and lime. Vodka lovers will swoon for the Sarang-hae Colada — a symphonic blend of vodka, lychee puree, coconut, cranberry bitters, lemon and rose water. There’s a generous offering of mocktails for those skipping spirits as well as a thought-out selection of wines and sakes.
Wagyu Gyoza
A couple of sips in and you’ll know you’re in good hands, but in case the question still lingers, trust that you are about to embark on a meal you’ll reminisce over even in your sleep.
Executive Chef Taek Lee (Taka) is responsible for this. If the name sounds familiar, it’s because he’s been a transformative force in South Florida’s Asian cuisine for over 20 years (cue in heavyweight restaurants Zuma, Makota and Monkitail.)
The menu is divided into multiple sections: Tsumami, Agemono (deep-fried items), Itame Mono (stir-fried), Sea and Land. There’s also a sushi menu with specialty nigiri and cold appetizers. It’s easy to become overwhelmed with the choices, luckily, the thoughtful and trained staff is there to guide you along the way. Dishes are meant to be shared so order liberally. Speaking from first-hand experience, leftovers taste great the next day.
Short Rib Kimchi Tacos
Duck Bao Buns are not to be missed: tender duck breast in a maple teriyaki glaze arrive coddled by fluffy buns. Oyster lovers will be smitten by Chef’s rendition of the mollusk. It arrives served raw on the half shell with minuscule mounds of ponzu granita, apple and serrano peppers. For a flavor enjoyed in one bite, it’s an ethereal experience of savoring the brininess of the sea paired with bright, frozen lime and smoky ham. For those over 21, the oyster shooter (Yuzu sake, ponzu, uni and caviar) is not to be missed.
Tsumami (not to be confused with tsunami) is the Japanese version of bar food, but you won’t find greasy onion rings or fried mozzarella sticks here. Instead, grace your palate with Short Rib Kimchi Tacos, Wagyu Gyoza or Crispy Tuna with spicy aioli before indulging in the main course. Entrees like Lobster with Yuzu Butter or A5 Wagyu Hot Stone (is there a sweeter sound than buttery steak sizzling on a smooth rock?) are both showstoppers. You’d be remiss to not pair these with Rock Shrimp Tempura or Seabass Fried Rice with edamame, garlic and fried egg. Your server will advise you to break the egg and mix the yolk into the steaming sticky rice to create a richer, even more flavorful dish. You’ll be happy to have listened.
Duck Bao Buns
Desserts are short and sweet: Sweet Potato Tiramisu, Strawberry Cheesecake Bingsu (Korean shaved ice) or Sushi Ice Cream that makes for a clever Instagram post.
What’s missing at Takato are a couple of hammocks to wander off to after the meal where one could take in the ocean breeze and wait it out until less full to begin the entire delightful experience again.
Takato is located inside The Conrad Hotel at 551 N. Fort Lauderdale Beach Blvd., Fort Lauderdale. For more information, call 954-414-5160 or visit takatorestaurant.com.
Lobster With Yuzu Butter