Credit: Angelina Bruno
Ukiah Japanese Smokehouse is bringing its bold flavor game to brunch, launching an all-new weekend lineup that’s as lively as the New River it's nestled next to. Since opening, the downtown Fort Lauderdale hotspot has earned a devoted following for its mashup of Japanese flair and American smokehouse soul.
Now it’s giving weekends an extra-bubbly (ahem, unlimited mimosas, bellinis and Belvedere Bloody Marys?) treatment.
“Business has been amazing... we’ve really felt the love from the community since day one,” Chef Michael Lewis, co-owner of Ukiah Japanese Smokehouse, tells Browardist. “With brunch, we wanted to create something that feels uniquely Fort Lauderdale but still true to Ukiah... laid-back, vibrant and a little unexpected.”
Kicking off Saturday, October 25, brunch will run Saturdays and Sundays from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., complete with those lovely riverside views, live DJs for select sessions and a menu that takes comfort food on a thoughtful detour. Preliminary intrigues include the Ukiah Benedict with a choice of pulled pork, soft-shell crab or avocado topped with yuzu hollandaise; Karaage Chicken & Waffles with maple syrup and salted butter; Banana Bourbon French Toast drenched in sesame caramel; and a prime ribeye known as “Fancy Steak + Eggs.”
“It’s not your typical eggs-and-bacon affair... it’s a celebration of flavor, energy and that community spirit that makes weekends here so special,” Lewis added. “We want guests to feel like they’re on vacation right in their own backyard.”
And, yes, for those who prefer their brunch bubbly, Ukiah is offering three free-flowing beverage packages — from $25 La Marca mimosas and bellinis to $55 Moët & Chandon Champagne with Belvedere Bloody Marys.
We’ll cheers to that.
Brunch is served every Saturday and Sunday from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Ukiah Japanese Smokehouse in downtown Fort Lauderdale. Reservations via OpenTable or ukiahrestaurant.com.
