
Gekko
RESTAURANT SUMMARY

Where Japanese precision meets Miami's electric energy, Gekko Miami transforms the traditional steakhouse into an intoxicating fusion of culinary artistry and nightlife sophistication. This Brickell neighborhood destination, meaning "moonlight" in Japanese, illuminates the city's dining scene with its distinctive blend of premium steakhouse fare and innovative sushi craftsmanship.
Born from the visionary partnership between hospitality mogul David Grutman of Groot Hospitality and global music icon Bad Bunny, Gekko represents a bold evolution in Miami fine dining. Since opening in August 2022 at the SLS Lux Brickell Tower, the restaurant has redefined luxury dining expectations under the culinary leadership of award-winning Executive Chef Juan Ibarra Heredia. Recognized as Chef of the Year 2025, Heredia brings his expertise in Mediterranean and Nikkei cuisines to create a menu that honors Japanese tradition while embracing Miami's vibrant spirit. The restaurant's 185-seat space, designed by the acclaimed Rockwell Group, has quickly established itself among the best restaurants Miami offers.
The cuisine at Gekko centers on Japanese-inspired steakhouse excellence, featuring premium Wagyu beef cuts presented through dramatic tableside flame-seared preparations. The culinary program showcases signature dishes including expertly crafted crab cake, delicate lobster dumplings, and the restaurant's renowned Wagyu steaks that exemplify the chef's commitment to precision and elevated presentation. The comprehensive sushi program features both classic and innovative preparations, anchored by an intimate six-seat omakase counter where guests witness the artistry of traditional Japanese technique. This dual focus on premium steaks and exceptional sushi positions Gekko uniquely within Miami's competitive fine dining landscape, offering both à la carte selections and curated tasting experiences.
The restaurant's atmosphere balances opulent sophistication with Miami's signature energy through rich jewel-toned interiors, golden ambient lighting, and dramatic design elements including a custom gold and red dip-dyed rope installation. The main dining room flows seamlessly into a vibrant lounge featuring late-night DJ sets and VIP bottle service, while the outdoor patio provides an elevated setting for the restaurant's popular happy hour. The Rockwell Group's design creates intimate spaces within the grand 185-seat layout, enhanced by velvet draperies and graphic wallcoverings that evoke the restaurant's moonlit concept. Service reflects the venue's luxury positioning, with attentive staff guiding guests through both the culinary offerings and the restaurant's extensive wine program and bespoke cocktail menu.
Gekko reservations are highly sought after, particularly for the omakase counter and prime evening slots when the restaurant transitions from fine dining to its signature nightlife experience. This unique concept makes Gekko Miami essential for discerning diners seeking both exceptional cuisine and the electric atmosphere that defines Miami's luxury dining scene.
CHEF
Alex Chi
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