By Aurora Dominguez
The street known as Ponce de Leon Boulevard in Coral Gables is a street that mixes elegant stores with magical and unique restaurants. It’s a street where you will be whisked away to a different world in a way, the type of place where history mingles with classy establishments and beautiful people roaming around. Not only that, but it’s a boulevard full of options for those who want to relax, unwind and enjoy something new. And sometimes, while there, you might find yourself stumbling right into a type of restaurant where cozy conversations, celebrations and special gatherings between friends and loved ones are welcome.
Are you looking for a restaurant like this to try out? Well, you are in luck.
Let me introduce you to Kojin2.0. Passionate foodies must pay this restaurant a visit, especially if they enjoy all the things mentioned above. And these specific elements are what makes this restaurant truly special.
Kojin2.0 is a restaurant that’s truly different from others, with the type of service that makes you feel like you are in your family’s kitchen, hanging out and having a conversation with the chef. Or, in this case, chefs.
Led by chef couple Pedro and Katherine Mederos, Kojin2.0 is the perfect place to explore a different side of Japanese food. The chefs are proud and focused on making sure that they utilize fresh and seasonal local ingredients in every dish that is served to their clients every evening. And they do so with pride.
The Mederos couple started this restaurant experience with the first Kojin, a pop-up restaurant that was only meant to last about three months in Miami’s Little River district. Now, a year after the closure of a place that was revered and respected by everyone who tried their food options, they have their own little space in Coral Gables to show off their culinary skills and serve hungry diners a delicious selection of Japanese food created with passion. It’s a different world now, a world where Chef Pedro has a chance to feed more than just those who perched themselves on the six-seat counter at the prior Kojin pop-up.
Yet, while the restaurant is not just a counter offering delicious bites, the environment is cozy, and it only seats 30 diners. So, we recommend making reservations in advance to enjoy the dining experience at this restaurant.
When my husband and I had the chance to experience a meal at Kojin2.0, we were greeted by a cheerful and comfortable space featuring a soft banquette and table seating. The feelings that you get once you visit are fuzzy ones, because we felt welcome as soon as we stepped in and got ready for the long-awaited main event of eating at the new spot.
Diners have the option of enjoying a journey of one of their three tasting menus. Each of them gives visitors a chance to try the restaurant’s varied food options and beverage options, such as perfectly selected sakes, wines and beers.
The starter version (Commis) comprised six courses for $85 per person. Then there’s the 12 or so course mid-level menu (Sous) at $145 per person. Lastly, for those seeking something very special, there’s the all-in menu (Executive) being offered, one that includes access to those two front-row counter seats, wine and sake pairings, and more surprises. Highly recommended for special celebrations, these menus give foodies a chance to have the best of the best selections to enjoy.
While at the restaurant, we felt like royalty. The a la carte menu is one that offers some of the restaurant’s staples. Some of the included ones on the menu of are a delicious brown butter brioche served with truffle honey butter and a flavor-packed sando. You can also enjoy thechicken or mushroom, a flavorful mix that includes slaw, tsukemono and soy egg. Many of these are great for the start of your dining experience.
We were impressed by the main courses that we triedm as well as their general main course dishes. Just expect to be wooed by a fresh market fish, as well as a delectable Niman Ranch short rib with curry, carrots and celery root, among other options that will leave you satisfied with your meal and evening.
Oh, and please don’t leave without trying the already crowd favorite, Kojin Caesar, a perfect mix of local greens, katsumirim (a bonito flake studded salad topping) nori and smoked trout roe. It was a true highlight for me!
End your dining experience with a delicious dessert such as a rich chocolate tart with miso, caramel and dulce de leche. And please remember to request some perfect wine and sake pairings throughout your dine. It was one of the best things that we did, since each selection offered enhanced every bite.
It’s time to treat yourself to a special and unique experience at Kojin2.0. It’s unforgettable and you’ll find yourself recommending that others do the same.
For more information and reservations, call 786- 747-1404, visit their website www.kojin2.com and follow them on social media @kojin2.0.
