Cuisine

Kiss: a stylish new Japanese cocktail lounge in South Beach

South Beach’s newest Japanese-inspired cocktail lounge offers a transformative experience, evolving from a vibrant health-centric café by day to an atmospheric evening spot with curated drinks and elevated small plates.

Por: Alejandro Carrillo
Kiss: a stylish new Japanese cocktail lounge in South Beach / Photo via Kiss South Beach
Kiss: a stylish new Japanese cocktail lounge in South Beach / Photo via Kiss South Beach

When Kissaki debuted in South Beach earlier this year, it introduced a refined omakase dining experience to the chic South of Fifth area. Building on that success, the team has unveiled Kiss, a cocktail and tapas bar that officially opened last week, located just steps from the flagship restaurant.

 

During the day, the same space operates as Lilikoi Organic Living, a well-loved café known for its fresh juices and wholesome menu. But as evening sets in, it transforms into a sleek lounge, offering an imaginative cocktail menu paired with globally influenced tapas. This dual-purpose concept reflects Miami’s unique combination of wellness culture and dynamic nightlife, catering to those who enjoy detoxing by day and indulging by night.

Kiss: a stylish new Japanese cocktail lounge in South Beach / Photo via Kiss South Beach
Kiss: a stylish new Japanese cocktail lounge in South Beach / Photo via Kiss South Beach

Leading the beverage program is Joji Watanabe, cofounder of the acclaimed New York cocktail bar Rokc, recognized for its innovative techniques and presentation. At Kiss, Watanabe brings an experimental flair, crafting drinks like the “Smoky Piña Colada” with mezcal and milk-washed coconut milk, or the bold “Cucumber in the Pepper,” a spicy margarita served in a hollowed-out red bell pepper. Nostalgia meets creativity in offerings like the “Coke Without Coke,” a housemade cola syrup combined with rum and over ten intricate ingredients.

Kiss: a stylish new Japanese cocktail lounge in South Beach / Photo via Kiss South Beach
Kiss: a stylish new Japanese cocktail lounge in South Beach / Photo via Kiss South Beach

From juices to cocktails

“Every cocktail we serve has a story, from its ingredients to the way it’s presented,” shares Watanabe, emphasizing the artistry behind each creation.

 

The culinary offerings, curated by Kissaki Miami’s executive chef Benjamin Tellez, strike a balance between light bites and indulgent treats. Guests can savor dishes such as crispy Wagyu tacos with sesame avocado purée, delicate caviar cones filled with Ossetra caviar and crème fraîche, and elevated patatas bravas featuring confit potatoes with a duo of aioli. Desserts include a matcha pot de crème paired with sesame doughnuts and a luxurious vanilla soft-serve garnished with olive oil, sea salt, caviar, and gold flakes.

Kiss: a stylish new Japanese cocktail lounge in South Beach / Photo via Kiss South Beach
Kiss: a stylish new Japanese cocktail lounge in South Beach / Photo via Kiss South Beach

The ambiance at Kiss is an elegant blend of vintage charm and contemporary sophistication. Velvet chairs, plush lounge seating, and polished wooden tables create a warm and inviting atmosphere.

Inventive drinks and elevated tapas

The space is further enhanced by soft instrumental music — ranging from jazz to acoustic melodies — that complements the intimate vibe. Guests can opt for a spot at the bar to watch the bartenders perform their craft, complete with theatrical elements like smoke and fire.

 

“Kiss is a natural progression of what we’ve been building in this neighborhood,” says owner Gary Kanfer. “It’s a place where locals can unwind, try something new, and enjoy an exceptional dining and drinking experience.”

Kiss: a stylish new Japanese cocktail lounge in South Beach / Photo via Kiss South Beach
Kiss: a stylish new Japanese cocktail lounge in South Beach / Photo via Kiss South Beach

Kiss is located at 500 S. Pointe Dr., Miami Beach, and welcomes guests Wednesday through Sunday starting at 6:30 p.m. until late.

 

If you found this article about Kiss interesting, please share it. You can also check this article about Miami Art Week in our Luster English section.

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