In the vibrant culinary scene of Miami, discerning diners are always seeking that added touch of enchantment. This is precisely why I found myself at Jaya restaurant, known for its exquisite pan-Asian menu with a Miami twists, while drawing inspiration from Thailand, Korea, India, China, Vietnam and Japan. Nestled within the luxurious 5-star Setai hotel in South Beach, Jaya is a sight to behold. The sleek floor-to-ceiling glass doors in the lobby provides a glimpse into the restaurant and what lies beyond is truly impressive- a beautiful open-air courtyard with a retractable roof and a stone-filled pool stretching from end to end. The symmetrical wood columns lining the pool exude an elegant Eastern Zen spirit that seamlessly blends with the surrounding palm trees and dining tables. Our table, on the pool’s south edge with a view of the shimmering water underneath the Miami stars, made for a perfect evening.
Under the guidance of Executive Chef Vijay Veena, who hails from India, Jaya’s seasonal menu showcases the cuisines of Southeast and Northern Asian cultures with dishes such as the succulent Peking duck, Wagyu tataki, sea bass tikka with tamarind chutney, and the aromatic chicken Panang curry. Chef Vijay’s creations offer an impeccable fusion of Asian flavors, textures, and presentation that are meant to be shared amongst friends. It’s hard to resist the Thai seafood salad, but I opt for the perfect Thai tom yum goong soup and bite-sized tuna tacos in taro shells to start, which burst with fresh flavors enhanced by a zing from the jalapeno relish and nutty sesame. For the main course, I chose the melt-in-your-mouth miso black cod served with a squash truffle broth, while my friend relish the salmon glazed with honey and orange. To share, we indulge in two of the exceptional dim sum offerings – scallop and shrimp with truffle shavings, and short rib gyoza. For dessert, we savor the fresh strawberries paired with light-as-air crème. Jaya also offers an extensive selection of outstanding cocktails, including a delicious Passion Chili martini.
The name “Jaya,” derived from Sanskrit and meaning “victory,” was chosen to honor the award-winning designer of the Setai hotel, Jaya Ibrahim, who also designed the captivating Miami Beach restaurant we had the pleasure of dining at. As the evening progresses, prepare to be captivated by aerial acrobats, contortionists, and fire dancers who gracefully move from table-to-table, showcasing their talents and creating memorable moments that guests were eager to capture on their phones. After 10 pm, the atmosphere transforms into a vibrant nightclub with live DJ music and a kaleidoscope of colorful lights. To our right, a group of couples joyfully dance and sway to the happy Latin beats, their laughter echoing through the air. Jaya truly felt like a magical experience to behold. The good news is that there is more to discover during our next visit – Jaya’s legendary Sunday Jazz Brunch from 11:30 am to 3 pm. This extravagant brunch experience features a delicious assortment of breakfast classics and international flavors, including rotisserie, seafood, Asian dishes, and an array of desserts, all complemented by free-flowing Roederer Champagne.
Asian night Bazaar Dinner with fire dancer, contortionist and DJ music is from Thursday to Saturday 6 pm to 11 pm.
