NAOE

NAOE is one of Miami's most celebrated and intimate dining destinations, housed on Brickell Key at 661 Brickell Key Drive. With only five seats per seating, chef-owner Kevin Cory single-handedly prepares every dish — from the signature omakase bento box through pristine rounds of nigiri sushi to a mystery-ingredient house ice cream — while manager Samantha Phouthone ensures every guest feels at home.

The menu changes daily based on freshly sourced fish from Japan and local harbors, meaning no two visits are ever the same. NAOE holds a Forbes Travel Guide Five-Star and AAA Five Diamond designation, making it one of a rare handful of restaurants in the United States to earn both honors.

Sake from Cory's family's Nakamura Brewery in Kanazawa, Ishikawa, accompanies the meal exclusively. The minimalist hinoki cypress bar overlooking the open kitchen creates an almost meditative atmosphere.

With just 10 seatings per week, reservations are mandatory and book out far in advance — plan ahead for this bucket-list Miami meal.