KOJO

Absolutely recommend this place! I made reservations for my birthday and everything was ready and all of the employees were extremely nice. The food and drinks were delicious! The server was great and made sure to check on any dietary restrictions and allergies. The atmosphere is great, nice and cozy. I love the little ducklings too. Making and adjusting the reservation was also very easy. I will definitely return.

Cocktails were inventive and well put together. Edamame was delicious. The chili sauce needs to go EVERYTHING! The tuna tataki was real close to that time I had freshly line caught tuna fileted and served with packet kikomans soy sauce in the mid pacific on the back of the mighty Warship Chase. We ordered the Hakaido scallops with Uni because we have never had uni and figured this was the best place to try it. I will be back for this dish alone. The mains we ordered were the skirt steak and noodles with pork. I will also make a completely separate trip from the above mentioned trip just to eat these again. 10 out of 10. No notes. Eat and drink here. You'll thank me.

Kojo is widely considered one of the top dining destinations in downtown Sarasota, often praised for its "electric" NYC-chic vibe and a menu that delivers a sophisticated take on modern Asian fusion. Must-Try Dishes According to local diners and food critics, several items consistently stand out as highlights of the menu: Pork Belly Bao Buns: Frequently cited as a "star" of the meal, noted for being soft, flavorful, and perfectly crispy. Miso Black Cod: Often called the best version of this dish by guests, it is highly recommended for its tender texture and deep flavor. Crispy Nori Tacos: Specifically the spicy tuna and Hokkaido scallop versions are praised for their unique seaweed shells and fresh ingredients. Mushroom Rice Pot: A substantial, savory dish often prepared table-side that guests find incredibly satisfying. Matcha Mochi Doughnuts: A favorite for finishing the meal, described as "ridiculously rich" and a must-try for dessert lovers.Atmosphere & ExperienceVibrant Ambiance: The restaurant features a chic, dimly lit interior with a "nice buzz," making it ideal for a memorable date night or a lively outing with friends. Creative Cocktail Program: The mixology team is frequently highlighted for inventive drinks like the Midori Sour and the Black and Gold, which pairs bourbon with toasted sesame oil. Exceptional Service: Staff members like Diego or Michaela for being knowledgeable, attentive, and providing a "seamless" dining experience. Thoughtful Details: From hand-drawn cards for special celebrations like engagements to unique chopstick rests (small wooden ducks), the attention to detail adds a personalized touch to your visit. Practical TipsSharing Style: The menu is designed for sharing small and large plates, so it’s a great spot for groups who want to try a variety of different flavors. Reservations: Because it is a popular spot that "gets packed" quickly, booking a table in advance through the official website is highly recommended. Convenience: It’s located right in the heart of downtown next to the Art Ovation Hotel, with easy parking available in the Palm Avenue garage