Est 1987
HOW IT ALL STARTED
In 1987, founder Toni Takarada set out to make the first Japanese restaurant in the heart of Miami Beach, back when the area was nothing more than a collection dilapidated houses and hotels. It was a gamble that helped to set the course for Miami Beach as the area went through a major cultural reinvention.
Through the years, Toni’s witnessed firsthand the evolution of South Beach from the roaring 90’s to the pop culture 2000’s and onwards. Although the times and scenes of South Beach changed through the decades, Toni’s steadfastly held onto its ethos of authentic Japanese cuisine, becoming a staple of Miami Beach.
RECENT REDESIGN
To help ring in 40 years of history, Toni’s Sushi Bar recently underwent a complete renovation. The cornerstone of the new design is five tons of bamboo imported from the mountains of Kyoto, transformed into dramatic shapes and archways throughout the restaurant. In Japanese culture, bamboo is a symbol of strength and beauty but also has unwavering flexibility that allows for it to be shaped into form when treated and cut in particular ways. The four craftsmen, each a master in their field who count ancient temples and royal gardens in Japan among their past commissioned work, transformed Toni’s Sushi Bar into a mesmerizing space. Highlights include an enchanting bamboo tunnel over the restaurant’s beloved sunken tables and a dynamic bamboo wave that crashes over the sushi bar.
Esteemed interior design firm Kono Designs was instrumental in the creative direction as the firm has extensive experience harmoniously balancing Japanese traditions with contemporary aesthetics in its global projects. From the materials used to the overall look and feel, the celebrated firm skillfully blended contemporary elements with nods to Japanese heritage to create a space that is as visually stunning as the acclaimed sushi Toni’s has served for a remarkable four decades.
OUR TEAM
A family business that started in 1987, Toni’s Sushi Bar features a team of the best leaders in the industry.
Toshiya Sato
Toni’s Headchef, Mr. Toshiya Sato was an early member of the Toni’s team in the 90’s. He then branched out and toured several renowned Miami restaurants such as Zuma and Makoto, becoming an executive chef there before making his way back to Toni’s Sushi Bar.
Susan Fnu
A very familiar face, Susan Fnu is the general manager of Toni’s Sushi Bar. She has been with the company for nearly 20 years and considers Toni’s to be her second home.
Yoko Takarada
Yoko Takarada is the second generation restaurant owner and operator with a formidable track record. She currently operates such Miami classics as Shokudo in Design District as well as Shimuja Ramen in Davie.
Kevin Takarada
Son of the late founder Toni Takarada, Kevin was never too far away from the restaurant industry despite his 15-year career tour that spanned both Engineering and Finance. In 2017, Kevin opened up a fast casual concept in NYC called MakiMaki, and now operates 4 locations throughout Manhattan.
OUR GALLERY
Our passion is to provide the very best sushi dining experience in its true form in Miami Beach.
