Makoto

Located on the top floor of the luxury shopping mecca that is Bal Harbour Shops, Makoto is one of the best Japanese restaurants in Miami, attracting a mix of couples, friends out for the night and families with older kids and teens. It works just as well for a celebratory Saturday evening out or more casual weekday evening. The menu centers around high-quality sushi (innovative sashimi preparation is a highlight but order the two kinds of crispy rice to share), and top-sourced meats. Sit inside or outside, which is blissfully shaded under the ceiling–or pull up a seat at the beautiful circular bar. On a recent visit, one local was sitting at the bar with her white Pomeranian in the seat next to her.

Given its location, it's quieter than the scene-y restaurants in South Beach, a welcome contrast–and you can shop beforehand or just wander to enjoy the fountains, artwork and towering palm trees of the shopping center.