Our Story

Zōtō is known as the “art of gift-giving” in Japan. Our logo, one of the many traditional Mizuhiki knots, is meant to symbolize the tie between the gift giver and the recipient.

Our mission here at Zōtō is to share the gift of our stories, passions, and love for what we do. Every drink and dish is crafted with a subtle nod to our journey that led us to here, and to the various people who have graciously gifted us their knowledge and allowed us to share that with you.

Most importantly, everything is made with love, tied and true. We may have started as strangers, but our passion binds us. So from gatherings with friends and family to newfound connections, we hope you find yourselves tied together.

Thank you for allowing us to share this gift with you. #tietheknot
-Kanpai!

Meet Our Team

  • Atsushi Okawara- Executive Chef

    Born in Iwate, Japan, Chef Atsushi’s culinary approach draws from his Japanese heritage and two decades of international experience in Japan, Canada, and the United States.

    Chef Atsushi brings a distinguished background as Executive Chef of Miami Beach’s one-Michelin-star Den, where he earned Michelin stars in 2022 and 2023, and previously at Kenzo Restaurant in Napa Valley, where he earned the restaurant’s first star in 2017.

  • Daniel Lugo- Beverage Director

    With over a decade of experience behind the bar, Daniel has shaken, stirred, and poured his way through an array of establishments—from breweries and cocktail bars to wine lounges, sake dens, and a Michelin-starred restaurant.

    Daniel brings an eclectic, sustainability-driven beverage program that celebrates craftsmanship and storytelling, highlighting the sake brewers and winemakers behind each pour.

  • Benjamin Coutts- Sommelier

    Benjamin helped to shape one of Florida’s most acclaimed dining experiences, earning and maintaining a MICHELIN Star for Soseki since its inception. In 2023, Benjamin was honored with MICHELIN’s Sommelier Award and his work has been featured in Imbibe Magazine, the MICHELIN Guide, and Orlando Sentinel.

    He is praised for his globally inspired, locally focused philosophy and his meticulous curation of sake and wine programs that evolve with the seasons.

  • Janet Kim- General Manager

    With over two decades of industry experience, Janet Kim brings a lifelong passion for service to Zōtō. Her career has taken her through some of NYC’s most celebrated fine dining restaurants and luxury hotels, including the three Michelin-starred Masa and the Mandarin Oriental.

    A Sarasota local, Janet brings her expertise to Zōtō and strives to elevate the Japanese dining scene with world-class hospitality