If you’re trying to eat somewhere near Las Olas, especially at a place with a view of the New River, it should be here. Not only does Ukiah have a prime location on the river’s edge, but its outdoor patio has some of the best people-watching in town (as long as you can handle sound bleed from the neighboring bar’s atrocious playlist). Ukiah calls itself a Japanese smokehouse, and the small plates are where you’ll find most of the Japanese influence, while the larger entrees are where the smoked meats come into play. It’s all some of the most consistent and interesting food within a two-mile radius. Just be sure to start the meal with crispy rice, and end with the coconut cake. If this menu seems a little familiar, that’s because it’s from the original chef behind Miami’s wildly popular Kyu.
photo credit: Ukiah Japanese Smokehouse
Food RundownSalmon Crispy Rice
An essential order here. The fish is chopped to the point that it’s nearly a paste, then generously piped over the golden slab of fried rice.
photo credit: Ryan Pfeffer
Sliced Hamachi
It’s almost a crudo salad, thanks to the mattress of herbs the sliced hamachi lies on. Those herbs aren’t just for show. They soak up the white ponzu and add a depth of flavor to each piece of hamachi.
photo credit: Ryan Pfeffer
Japanese Sweet Potato
This should really be on the dessert menu, but if the words “miso butter” and “brown sugar” make you happy, order it. The potato is practically swimming in both.
photo credit: Ryan Pfeffer
Smoked Pastrami Short Rib
Although we wish it were sliced a little thicker, it’s an impressive short rib. The pickled accompaniments—roasted kimchi and yuzu pickles—are also great. Our biggest issue with this dish is the Japanese milk bread that comes with it, which is flat and spiritually closer to a pita. This dish is begging for bao instead.
photo credit: Ryan Pfeffer