Shiso, an innovative Asian smokehouse, by Chef Raheem Sealey, to debut this week
- Jake Nicholas
- Mar 24
- 2 min read
Chef Raheem Sealey, renowned for his innovative approach to global cuisine, will unveil Shiso, an inventive Asian Smokehouse, in Miami's dynamic Wynwood neighborhood on March 28. Developed in partnership with Forward Hospitality Group, Shiso promises an elevated dining experience that blends Caribbean flavors, Japanese culinary precision, and wood-fired barbecue techniques. Reservations are now available through Resy.
Chef Sealey, celebrated for his previous roles at acclaimed Miami restaurants including KYU, Pao, ZUMA, and his popular BBQ concept, Drinking Pig, describes Shiso as a deeply personal venture reflective of his culinary journey.
Born and raised in St. Croix, Sealey's passion was ignited in island resort kitchens before refining his skills at Miami’s prestigious Le Cordon Bleu. Shiso is, according to Sealey, a culmination of his experiences and collaborations with culinary talents from around the world, showcasing his heritage and innovative approach to cuisine
Photo: Sisho, Cristian Gonzalez/CG Media
The restaurant’s carefully curated menu emphasizes shared experiences through creative dishes that fuse technique and bold, distinctive flavors. Notable dishes include "Shiso Chicken Please," featuring Cornish hen prepared two ways—smoked and fried, accompanied by white BBQ sauce—and "Oxtail Gunkan," a sophisticated dish of smoked BBQ oxtail layered with pickle relish, rice, house-made oxtail 'ju-su,' and wrapped in nori.
Designed by Lambrini Palmieri-Schwartz of House of L, Shiso's interior harmonizes raw urban aesthetics with refined elegance. Guests will find striking contrasts of exposed concrete beams adorned with graffiti juxtaposed with an illuminated quartz stone bar, glossy corridors revealing weathered brick, and serpentine banquettes that frame sweeping views of Miami's skyline. A unique origami-inspired entrance featuring a wooden sculpture of a paper crane welcomes diners, signaling the restaurant's fusion of tradition and contemporary style.
The venue spans multiple experiences, including a luxurious open-kitchen dining room illuminated by chandeliers, vibrant murals by local artists, and an intimate 15-seat Chef’s Counter offering a modern interpretation of traditional Omakase.
Upstairs, guests can enjoy a spacious 6,500-square-foot rooftop complete with a 35-seat racetrack-shaped bar featuring a retractable roof, private dining cabanas, and a lush 2,000-square-foot garden. Signature design touches include a Harajuku-inspired bathroom with vivid anime art and striking murals along the ascent to the rooftop, highlighting Wynwood's renowned street art culture.
At the heart of Shiso’s vibrant social atmosphere is an exceptional beverage program led by acclaimed Miami mixologist James MacInnes, known for both craft excellence and engaging showmanship. The space offers guests two distinct bar concepts, each designed to complement Chef Sealey's culinary creations.
Open Tuesday through Sunday, 5PM to close, visit and learn more at www.shisomiami.com
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