Ukiah Japanese Smokehouse — Restaurant in Fort Lauderdale

Let start off by saying if you're on the fence about trying the place get off the fence and go! Yes yes yes, the food is so worth it!! The staff was great the atmosphere is def a vibe. We went on Father's Day and everything we tried was DELICIOUS. This is the experience that I want to have every time I go out to eat amazing food and genuinely nice people. I was dancing in my seat that's how good everything was. Let's get into the food!!! The portions aren't huge but that fine we need to eat smaller portions anyways lol. We had the crispy squid and crispy pork bao bun as an appetizer omg so good we enjoyed the squid so much we got a second order. The bao bun was yummy a nice crisp on the pork and it was very tender. My kids of course love noodles and they had the spicy pork bbq the broth on this was unbelievable the name of the dish might have you thinking it's heavy on the bbq flavor but it is not. It has a nice kick to it and so flavorful it took me by surprise. I had the red snapper and my husband had the pork belly again delicious and a surprising favorite was the Japanese sweet potato. It was creamy, sweet and salty at the same time this could have been a dessert this is a must try it was that good. I had the grilled mushrooms it was good. From the drink menu we had pear necessities very good and so fresh and so green which I didn't really like but the waiter was very accommodating and switched it for the Return of the Mac which I loved. For dessert we had the coconut cake and dark chocolate miso. I loved the coconut cake my only negative comment is that I wish it was room temperature I don't like eating cold cake. Overall great desserts you could really taste the love in all the food it was truly an experience and the price point was reasonable. Kudos to the chef, staff and owners we will...

Oh, where do I even begin? Ukiah Japanese Smokehouse is an absolute gem on the Fort Lauderdale riverfront – a masterful fusion of Japanese soul food and American BBQ that left me utterly spellbound. From the moment we stepped in, the vibe was electric: sleek, modern decor with subtle nods to Japanese aesthetics, warm lighting, and that irresistible smoky aroma wafting from the open kitchen. It’s the kind of place that feels both intimate and alive, perfect for a date night or a lively gathering with friends. Chef Michael Lewis is a wizard here. We started with the raw bar – the sashimi platter was pristine, with melt-in-your-mouth tuna and salmon that tasted like they were plucked straight from the ocean. But the real showstopper? The smoked meats! The wagyu brisket, slow-smoked and glazed with a miso BBQ sauce, was tender, juicy, and packed with umami – a harmonious blend of Texas smokehouse tradition and Japanese precision that had us savoring every bite. Paired it with their house ramen, rich and slurpy with perfectly jammy eggs, and a side of grilled yakitori skewers that were charred just right. Don’t skip the Japanese whisky selection; their highball flight was the ideal complement, smooth and refreshing. Service was impeccable – our server was knowledgeable, attentive without hovering, and even recommended off-menu pairings that elevated the meal. Portions are generous, prices fair for the quality, and the riverfront views add that extra magic, especially at sunset. Ukiah isn’t just a meal; it’s an experience that’ll have you planning your next visit before you leave. Run, don’t walk – this place is redefining fusion cuisine in...

Welcome Back to South Florida, Chef Michael Lewis & Steven Haigh!

Ukiah is a stunning new addition to the Fort Lauderdale dining scene. A beautiful restaurant and bar that strikes the perfect balance between chic and welcoming. It is the kind of place where you want to linger with friends, share plates, and catch up over cocktails. Make sure to get their version of an espresso martini, BULLET TRAIN TO TOKYO!

We kicked things off with the crispy shrimp in chili butter. The chili butter is a nostalgic nod to their original Miami restaurant, and just as addictive as ever. The tuna crispy rice was hands down the best I have had in South Florida, and the chicken karaage(pro tip: order it with the chili butter on the side) was perfectly crisp and flavorful. The roasted cauliflower with shishito vinaigrette was a standout, bright, savory, and crave-worthy. We also loved the burrata with honey marmalade, a beautiful balance of creamy and sweet.

For mains, the smoked pastrami short rib was a showstopper. Fall-off-the-bone tender and deeply flavorful, while the crispy baby back ribs brought a satisfying crunch and richness.

And whatever you do, save room for dessert. Their famous coconut cake lives up to the hype and is the perfect way to end the meal. Ukiah is a place we will definitely return to again and again. South Florida is lucky to have...