When UKIAH Japanese Smokehouse opened this past May in Fort Lauderdale, it almost immediately became a South Florida favorite thanks to its location along the New River and its take on “Japanese soul food’’ with an American twist.
Now, welcome to brunch at UKIAH from the team led by Chef and Co-Owner Michael Lewis. Launched this past October, brunch at UKIAH is as good as it gets – featuring a menu that includes Karaage Chicken & Waffles (crispy fried chicken with buttery waffles, maple syrup, and salted butter); UKIAH Benedict (Carolina Pulled Pork, Soft Shell Crab, Avocado, topped with poached eggs and yuzu hollandaise on an English muffin); and Banana Bourbon French Toast finished with salted sesame caramel.
Never pass on the Crispy Baby Back Ribs (my favorite) of the Fancy Steak + Eggs (12oz Prime Ribeye and two Sunny Side Eggs).
Served Saturday and Sunday from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m, the brunch menu also includes signature cocktails.
“Like most of the dishes on all my menus, I decided to include the items that I enjoy eating the most. In this case, the brunch items I crave,’’ Lewis told me.
His favorite brunch item?
“That changes on a daily basis,’’ Lewis said. “Last weekend I really wanted crab. So I was all about the Stone Crab claws and the soft-shell crab Benedict. But the French toast never disappoints.’’
Lewis said his decision-making process as to what the UKIAH brunch menu includes “is less of a test, trial and error situation’’ and more of deciding what the “must haves’’ are.
“Then find the space and time to execute those items successfully,’’ Lewis said. “I know our regular guests will come and join us for brunch as they know how wonderful the food and space is already. I also expect to see new faces as they enjoy a beautiful day on the riverwalk and stumble on us for a great brunch break.
“Business at UKIAH has been wonderful. I think UKIAH fits in the neighborhood very well, I’ve always believed that UKIAH is a neighborhood restaurant with a diverse enough menu to make stand out and feel new each time you go, while always providing that items you crave.’’
https://www.ukiahrestaurant.com
Photo Credits: FoodShootsDanJPG