Master Critic Review
Shiso
8.5
Chef Raheem Sealey's debut after leading KYU to James Beard recognition opened in March 2025, fusing Caribbean soul with Japanese technique and Texas wood-fire smoking in ways that feel genuinely original—the smoked oxtail gunkan and short rib with DIY handroll materials exist nowhere else in Miami. The graffiti-tagged rooftop space overlooking Wynwood captures that early-2010s neighborhood energy before everything became an Italian restaurant or taco shop. Service has been inconsistent since opening, with multiple reports of glacial pacing and inattentive staff, and the automatic 20% gratuity removes incentive for improvement. Best for adventurous eaters who prioritize culinary ambition over polished hospitality.
Must-Try Dishes:
Oxtail Gunkan (Smoked BBQ Oxtail with Pickle Relish), Shiso Chicken Please (Cornish Hen Two Ways), Smoked Sticky Ribs with Puff Rice Furikake
Scores:
Value: 8
Service: 7.5
Consistency: 8
Food Quality: 9
Atmosphere: 8.8
Cultural Relevance: 9
What makes it special: Chef Raheem Sealey (formerly of KYU) fuses Caribbean soul with Japanese precision and Texas-style wood-fire smoking, creating dishes like smoked oxtail gunkan that exist nowhere else.
Who should go: Adventurous eaters craving bold fusion in a stunning rooftop setting.
When to visit: Early dinner Wednesday-Thursday for omakase counter seats; weekends get packed.
What to order: Order family-style for sharing—start with scallop crudo, move to the oxtail gunkan and sticky ribs, then finish with the Shiso Chicken Please.
Insider tip: Request a seat at the 15-seat chef's counter for the omakase experience with direct chef interaction.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking in Wynwood or nearby paid lots—rideshare recommended for weekend nights
Dress code: Smart casual to dressed up—guests often dress for date nights; collared shirts and stylish attire fit the upscale rooftop setting
Noise level: Energetic with DJ and music—expect to lean in for conversation, especially later in the evening. Request earlier seating or table away from bar for quieter experience
Weekend wait: Reservations essential—this is a top-100 US restaurant; book well in advance on Resy
Weekday lunch: Not open for lunch (dinner only Wed-Sun starting 5pm)
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Limited but available—veggie hand rolls, broccolini, shiitake dishes, and sides
Vegan options: Very limited; menu is meat and seafood heavy—call ahead to confirm substitutions
Gluten-free options: Call ahead to confirm; staff described as knowledgeable and accommodating for dietary needs
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes - stunning romantic design with rooftop seating and lively Wynwood vibe. Perfect for anniversaries and special nights. For a quieter table, request earlier seating or a spot away from the bar and DJ. The intimate Chef's Counter seats 15 for a special experience.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Reservations strongly recommended - Shiso is ranked in the top 100 US restaurants and is a popular destination. Book through their reservation system, especially for Friday-Saturday when they're open until midnight. Closed Monday-Tuesday.
Is it kid-friendly? Better suited for teens and older children. Small plates, shareable tapas-style dining, and cocktail-focused atmosphere make it less ideal for young kids. No kids menu. Call ahead if bringing children to confirm seating arrangements.
Is it good for groups? Yes - accommodates parties of 1-20 people. Features 11,000 sq ft of event space with private rooms. Banquet capacity of 325 and reception capacity of 400 for large events. Contact directly for private dining arrangements.
Is there outdoor seating? Yes - rooftop terrace with retractable roof for open-air experience. Lush greenery surrounds seating areas. Live music on the rooftop creates a vibrant atmosphere. Indoor-outdoor spaces seamlessly integrated.
Best For
Better for: Special occasion dining with stunning rooftop ambiance; unique wood-fired Asian-Caribbean fusion you won't find elsewhere; great for Instagram-worthy date nights
Consider Alternatives If: You're vegetarian/vegan (limited options), want a quiet intimate dinner, or prefer lunch service
Hours
MondayClosed
TuesdayClosed
Wednesday5pm - 10pm
Thursday5pm - 10pm
Friday5pm - 12am
Saturday5pm - 12am
Sunday5pm - 10pm