COURTESY OKU BY TAKATO
Clockwise from inset: Chefs Taek Lee and Shin San; ebi tempura; usuzukuri.
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EAT DRINK
OPENINGS
Chef ’s CHOICE Fans of the Japanese-Korean restaurant Takato at The Conrad will take a liking to its new sister concept, Oku by Takato. The private, 10-seat omakase (meaning “chef’s choice”) lounge led by executive chef Taek “Taka” Lee is accessible through a hidden entrance. Once inside, guests embark upon a culinary journey of more than 15 courses, underscored
by ingredients flown in fresh from Japan and Korea. A tasting in December featured the likes of scallop with shaved truffle and uni toast with caviar and pâté. Each dish is prepared front and center, so there are ample opportunities to mingle with the chefs and learn more about what’s being served. Aside from favorites such as Wagyu and toro (aka the fattiest part of a tuna), guests can also sample traditional cuisine like the Japanese egg custard known as chawanmushi. The meal is well spaced out, extensive in flavors, and ideal for those who appreciate the art and preparation of a chef-driven experience. (takatorestaurant.com) —Melissa Puppo
FORTLAUDERDALEILLUSTRATED.COM | FEBRUARY 2022
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