Less than a year after the successful opening of the restaurant’s first location in Hallandale Beach, ETARU, the contemporary Japanese eatery with Robatayaki cuisine opens its second South Florida restaurant at Icon Las Olas in Fort Lauderdale. 

Brought to the United States by Rainer Becker, co-founder and creator of Zuma restaurants worldwide and ROKA London, ETARU’s menu revolves around the central Robata Grill; a concept which originated with the fisherman of Japan’s Northern coast who charcoal-grilled fish on their boats and shared with one another via outstretched oars. 

Sashimi, maki rolls, salads and tataki, snacks and soups are all beautifully presented on specialty plateware, handmade and imported from Japan. Tokusen – special raw sashimi dishes – include plates like ROKA London’s signature Black Kampachi Sashimi with yuzu truffle dressing; Wagyu Sushi with oscietra caviar, scallions and ginger; and Tuna Toro Tartare with wasabi ponzu dressing and rice crackers.

ETARU will also offer a full sushi selection including nigiri. At the heart of the restaurant’s menu is Robatayaki dishes including black cod marinated in yuzu miso with pickled radish; ETARU’s signature lamb cutlets with Korean spices and sesame cucumber; and grilled octopus with whipped tofu and pear salad. 

ETARU’s beverage program features a variety of signature cocktails such as the Beyond the Sea with Grey Goose Vodka, lychee & kombu cordial and champagne; Rita Okinawa made with yuzu kosho Maestro Dobel Tequila, yellow chartreuse, lime and agave and Edamame Fizz with Bombay dry gin, edamame cordial, shiso, lime and sparkling wine.

The indoor-outdoor space, designed by Miami Beach’s Urban Robot Associates, is outfitted with natural touches of wood and pops of color mixed with industrial-chic design elements. An impressive tree-like structure will serve as the centerpiece of the restaurant alongside the central Robata grill, which will have an open concept, allowing U to see the action of the kitchen.