When you’re searching for the best restaurants in Miami, Aventura Mall should be at the top of the list. With more than 50 diverse foodie-favorite restaurants, eateries and cafes spread across its lush courtyard, Treats Food Hall and outdoor terrace with oversized games and a massive mural adorning the wall, it’s hard to imagine a better place to grab a bite to eat. As if your dining options couldn’t get any better, Aventura Mall is elevating the scene once again! Save your plane tickets because the New York staple, Toku, is bringing its modern Asian fare to South Florida with its new Aventura Mall location. A Long Islander favorite for its modern pan-Asian fare, expansive cocktail program and moody yet inviting ambiance, Toku by Poll Restaurants will instantly become your new go-to for an unforgettable dining experience right here in South Florida.
It’s no surprise that Toku continues to be an instant hit among East Coast diners. Brothers Gillis and George Poll have conquered steakhouse, seafood and Italian cuisines, so Asian fare was an obvious next step—and guess what…they got it right again and have diners coming back week after week, night after night. The same will be true of their new Aventura Mall location. So, what’s their secret? Gillis’ philosophy centers around giving their best to customers and never cutting corners. These restauranteurs understand something others overlook: a customer does know and recognize when things are done the right way, from the food and design to the staff…and they will come if it’s all done with the highest standards.
“South Florida is a unique culinary destination, with restaurants that bring together the best in flavors from a variety of cultures,” shares Gillis and George Poll, owners of Toku. “Toku’s immersive ambiance and straightforward menu are designed for any occasion, making Aventura Mall a natural choice for our second location. We are delighted to introduce our artfully crafted dining experience to residents, visitors, and mall goers alike.”
Guests will appreciate the sleek and stylish vibe carried throughout the 14,000-square-foot restaurant, which incorporates design elements from the New York location while bringing in South Florida touches. Created by Rockwell Group, with input from the Poll brothers, Toku’s immersive interior is based on a 19th Century Japanese home. The restaurant’s cozy ambiance is brought into the 21st Century with ultra-modern elements and sleek lighting.
Upon entry, guests can enjoy the 53-seat bar area with an illuminated surface, dark wood accents, and a large mural by local artist Krave depicting a Chinese dragon. Heading into the main dining room, which seats 166, a large stone Buddha overlooks the space, filled with plush banquettes for luxurious seating. Here, guests can enjoy views of the open kitchen and sushi bar while they dine. Those who wish to dine al fresco can head to Toku’s expansive 190-seat covered outdoor patio. Art by Fin Dac, whose striking work can be found across Miami’s Wynwood neighborhood, greets guests as they enter Toku’s private dining room, which can accommodate 14 and offers access to the patio area for large parties.
Toku’s cuisine combines ingredients and cooking techniques from across the globe, with predominantly Japanese and Chinese influences, supported by touches of Thai and Vietnamese flavors. The expansive menu features classic Asian fare with sophisticated meat and seafood selections. Toku’s designed-for-sharing dishes offer something for every palate, with highlights including Miso Black Cod, Roasted Lobster, Sesame Crusted Tuna, Wagyu Steak Frites, and Peking Duck, as well as a variety of rice and noodle dishes, and dozens of finely crafted sushi and maki options to choose from.
For reservations, visit OpenTable or call 305-465-8658.
