KYU, a prestigious Asian barbecue restaurant in Miami’s picturesque Wynwood neighborhood, has been named a semifinalist for the James Beard Award for best new restaurant in the country. Pronounced “Q,” KYU’s smoked meats at home are a real show stopper, where you can sample such things as mouthwatering duck breast duck breasts and Wagyu beef brisket seasoned perfectly with black pepper shichimi. Time magazine also added KYU to its “Best Restaurants in Every State” list, confirming KYU’s title as the best place in the state of Florida.
Time also recently named KYU the best restaurant in Florida, highlighting its refreshing tuna tataki dish with fermented chili and citrus. The menu at KYU, just a block away from the popular Wynwood Walls, is as colorful as its vibrant hue.
The cuisine here is rife with flavor, as chef Michael Lewis has created a diverse menu of innovative dishes that were inspired by his travels around the world, using techniques such as a Japanese grill called Yakinku.
You’ll find plenty of other tempting dishes to choose from, including Korean-style fried chicken that goes from smoke to fryer, creating a unique flavor unlike anything you’ve tasted before, while crispy crab buns, beef tartare and crispy baby back ribs are must-tries.
Try not to devour your plates too quickly, as you’ll want to save room for dessert. KYU Mom’s Coconut Cake is a must for one of Florida’s hot, sunny days, as it pairs with a ball of coconut ice cream and roasted coconut. Chocolate lovers will want to indulge in a Dark Chocolate Smores cake paired with banana-bourbon ice cream.
You’ll certainly want to wash down your meal with a drink, and KYU certainly has plenty of options for you. Try the Wynwood Mule cocktail served in a Warhol-style soup can, or try the Raging Geisha with Japanese whiskey, St. Germain, cucumber and fresh basil.
When you walk into KYU, you’ll notice that there’s an open kitchen with a smoker and grill used as the centerpiece of the restaurant. They have created an atmosphere that embodies a family-style dining experience that has been designed to deliver upscale cuisine with an unassuming atmosphere. KYU has managed to make it a local favorite, beloved as an affordable place with consistently great food.