Straight fire

Kojin 2.0 (Coral Gables)

RESTAURANTS • FOUND Table

The Backstory: Serving Japanese-influenced modern American cuisine, Kojin 2.0 opened last summer in Coral Gables as an intimate dining experience centered on curated tasting menus. It’s the reincarnation of a Little River pop-up from husband-and-wife chefs Pedro and Katherine Mederos.

The Experience: In a cozy waiting area at the front of the restaurant, diners are greeted with a glass of prosecco. The Mederoses also bring a personal touch to the proceedings, often with one or both stopping by tables to share insights about their latest tasting menus. Fresh flowers adorn each table, and an inlaid bookshelf atop the open kitchen window adds charm to the chef’s bar.

Highlights from recent visits include maitake mushrooms with farro risotto on a bed of parmesan foam with pickled apricots and chive oil; the Kojin Caesar Salad with katsumirin, kizami nori, and smoked trout roe; and braised short rib paired with grilled pattypan squash and celery root purée. And for dessert, the matcha tiramisu is a thing of beauty.

Why It’s FOUND: Kojin 2.0 is a restaurant that rewards return visits with its variety, creativity, and hospitality. –Katelin Stecz

→ Kojin 2.0 (Coral Gables) • 804 Ponce de Leon • Tue-Fri 530-1030p, Sat 11a-2:30p & 530-1030p • Reserve.