New York-born Nami Nori and sister restaurant Matsuyoi arrive in the Miami Design District thanks to Pharrell Williams.

Fluke ceviche PHOTO BY SEBASTIAN LUCRECIO

When Nami Nori landed in New York, Instagram feeds were flooded with colorful photos of the hot new West Village handroll spot. Now, the creators, renowned for popularizing this open-style temaki in New York City, have set their sights on Miami, partnering with the legendary Pharrell Williams to open its doors in the heart of Miami Design District with a two-part concept.

Indulge in over-the-top pieces a la carte style, with decadent toppings like caviar. PHOTO BY SEBASTIAN LUCRECIO

Nestled in a thoughtfully designed bi-level space, Nami Nori anchors the ground floor with a bright, airy ambiance reminiscent of a refined beach house, paying homage to its name. Here, guests are invited to nosh on their famous open-style temaki, including the fan-favorite X.O. Scallop and Spicy Crab Dynamite. Indulge in higher-end pieces like Japanese uni or toro topped with caviar. The menu offers something for every palate, complemented by a selection of Japanese-inspired starters, such as the wasabi cucumber tataki or the crunchy nami nori salad (a personal favorite). Elevating the experience further are unique cocktails crafted by Molly McClintock, which tie the meal together in perfect harmony.

Nami Nori open-style temaki pieces PHOTO BY SEBASTIAN LUCRECIO

Ascend to the upper level and find Nami Nori’s elegant older sister, Matsuyoi. Here, diners are greeted with a captivating, moonlit atmosphere juxtaposing the lower level’s bright and airy vibe and nodding to Japan’s serene seaside. With a translation of Matsu, meaning “to wait,” and Yoi, meaning “evening,” the setting is intended to conjure an evening waiting for someone special to arrive. And with a ten-seat chef ’s counter offering an exclusive temaki-tasting journey, diners are certainly in for a memorable treat.

Nami Nori shishito peppers with smoked miso honey PHOTO BY SEBASTIAN LUCRECIO

Both restaurants bridge tradition with contemporary flavors and design, speaking to the heart of Miami’s new culinary chapter. As the Design District continues to surge forward, Nami Nori and Matsuyoi promise to remain at the forefront. 156 NE 41st St., Miami, @naminori.us, @matsuyoi.us

The team behind Nami Nori. PHOTO BY SEBASTIAN LUCRECIO

Nestled in a thoughtfully designed bi-level space, Nami Nori anchors the ground floor with a bright, airy ambiance reminiscent of a refined beach house, paying homage to its name.

The bar/sushi counter at Nami Nori is the perfect setting to enjoy dinner. PHOTO BY SEBASTIAN LUCRECIO