Hidden away in a secret location in the heart of Coconut Grove Miami, Sushi By Scratch has emerged as a culinary enigma, expanding its esteemed omakase repertoire beyond its origins in Los Angeles and Austin. Housed within the confines of a seemingly innocuous location, guests are escorted into a dark and intimate space, where a 17-course fine dining experience reimagines traditional Japanese sushi with audacious flair awaits.
Omakase is a distinctive and immersive Japanese culinary experience, characterised by its personalised and interactive nature, where diners entrust the chef to craft a bespoke, multi-course meal using the freshest and finest ingredients available. Often featuring seasonal and rare items, and served in an intimate setting, allowing for a direct engagement with the chef’s expert techniques and creative expression in the art of Japanese cuisine. And although Sushi By Scratch didn’t pioneer the concept, they certainly execute it in the most spectacular way. To stand out, the restaurant has distinguished itself through its unique take on omakase, focusing on sharing culinary excitement rather than just service.
Owners Phillip Frankland Lee and Margarita Kallas-Lee have cultivated an environment that transcends the typical omakase experience. Having started their business venture in Los Angeles, they quickly expanded into Austin, and more recently, Miami. Having already receive huge critical acclaim, naturally The Executive Magazine had Sushi By Scratch firmly in its sights.
It’s clear that Sushi by Scratch is more than a dining destination; it’s an interactive experience where diners engage with the chefs and each other, learning about rare sakes and witnessing the creation of each dish in lavish yet laid back surroundings.
The Venue
After a round of welcome cocktails in the garden area, guests are escorted through a secretive vestibule by the friendly hostess. This leads to a hidden, intimate room that seamlessly combines elements of modern luxury with a nod to traditional aesthetics. The space, reminiscent of an upscale, sophisticated lounge, sets the stage for an immersive, deeply personalised and engaging culinary journey.
The decor is an exquisite blend of historic charm and contemporary flair. The ambiance evokes a sense of intimacy and exclusivity. This setting is not just a backdrop, but an integral part of the dining experience, and the soft lighting and dark walls adds an element of anticipation and mystery. The room is dominated by a large service bar with a live station and working kitchen, where the three chefs make their welcome introductions.
The dining area itself is compact yet thoughtfully designed. With only ten seats arranged around the sushi bar, the space is intimate, fostering a personal and interactive dining experience. This exclusivity ensures that each guest is at the heart of the culinary action. The sushi bar is the focal point where diners can witness the artistry of the chefs up close.
The Food
Diners are first invited to sample a collection of small appetisers, warming the pallets before embarking on a gastronomic adventure which is a testament to innovation. In all, 17 courses are thoughtfully curated each night, with a combination of both cooked and raw sushi. The essence of Japanese cuisine is elevated through unique infusions, where each dish – although recognisable – is far from ordinary. With examples including adornments of pineapple slices, a drizzling of melted bone marrow, and enlivened beet mustard sauces. This eclectic fusion of flavours is not merely for theatrics; it’s a harmonious blend that tantalises the pallet, moving diners effortlessly through a delightful dining pace set in a convivial atmosphere. Sushi by Scratch’s ethos is rooted in experimentation, sourcing some of the most exquisite fish varieties, and presenting them in a lively ambiance.
The beverage selection is equally imaginative, offering rare whiskey and sake flights, and cocktail parings as an option. The house flight, a mix of pre-batched cocktails and select beers, provides the perfect accompaniment to the culinary spectacle. Each round of libations (4 in total) is a masterclass in mixology and craft whiskey knowledge.
The omakase menu at is a dynamic canvas of flavours, changing regularly but always featuring exceptional creations like white fish with house-smoked peppers or A5 Wagyu. The chefs’ playful approach to traditional sushi preparation, including eel cooked with molten bone marrow, exemplifies the restaurant’s innovative spirit.
Part of the allure of the experience is the discovery of new flavours, which is why we won’t disclose the specifics of each dish. But guests can rest assured, each course is a intriguing, unique, and flavoursome as the next.
The Verdict
Sushi by Scratch Miami is not just any omakase experience; it’s a celebration of culinary artistry, personal connection, and a testament to the power of family and passion in creating unforgettable dining experiences. The food is plentiful, and exceptional. We highly recommend anyone with a taste for adventure make a booking, but due to its popularity, there may be a long wait.
