"Airie In the City" Previewing Zōtō | University Town Center (Utc) Sarasota (SRQ) | Autumn Inspired LOTN

Cropped sweater: JLUXLABEL

Shorts: Vintage

Heels: Louis Vuitton, Noot recent

Lipstick: MAC

A new high-end Japanese restaurant is opening this month at the University Town Center in the space formerly known as by Bento Asian Kitchen. Owned by Jimmy and Johnny Tung, the James Beard-nominated restaurateur brothers who started Bento Asian Kitchen and Tampa’s Michelin-starred Kōsen,

The new restaurant is Zōtō and they will feature upscale Japanese izakaya, which is small plates (similar to what we know as Tapas) with a crafted cocktail program that leans heavily into Japanese whisky. Last week I was invited out for the preview of this restaurant before they start their soft open in the upcoming weeks.

Chef Lwin Siss, who most recently honed his skills at the one Michelin starred Kōsen in Tampa, will lead Zōtō’s culinary team. Chef Siss played an integral role in helping Kōsen retain its Michelin star this year so you can expect world-class flavors and artistry in every bite.

Slated to open later this month in October, Zōtō will feature a 60-seat dining room along with a 50-seat outdoor patio and, eventually, a hidden omakase room called Yūgen, scheduled to open in the project’s second phase. If you have been to Kōsen in Tampa, their restaurant has a similar set up as well. So if you continue below you will get all the details on our dinner!

Crudo

Gluten-free

Chef's Selection nigiri 65$

This was a really great selection and the fish was extremely fresh and the variety was unmatched to what I have had at other restaurants that offer a Chef's Selection. It's not a true omakase and you can see that is evident, but the Chef does choose for you which I like. I really liked the variety and presentation.