THE DISH: DEN OF DELIGHTS

Sushi Mizumi at Wynn Palace in Cotai is a feast for the senses.

ENTERING MIZUMI AT WYNN PALACE IN COTAI FEELS A BIT LIKE STUMBLING DOWN A RABBIT HOLE INTO A JAPANESE WONDERLAND. Designed by renowned New York-based Vicente Wolf Associates, the restaurant ushers visitors into a courtyard-inspired main dining room, where an Led-powered cherry tree sculpture changes colors with the seasons. Meanwhile, a palette of blazing orange and red sends a boomerang of warmth about the room, from the steel rock garden to the lively open kitchen. Within this designer den lies yet another surprise: Sushi Mizumi. Luring a steady stream of fashionable foodies, this restaurant within a restaurant — which earned the highest Forbes Travel Guide rating, five stars, in its own right—is located to the left of the main entrance, tucked away in its own intimate area that seats just 14 guests. Bright and bold, the contemporar y Japanese aesthetic pays tribute to nature with asymmetrical rock walls, stone features, and crimson floral motifs. Taking center stage, a hand-carved hinoki cypress wood sushi counter resides beneath a mobile of delicate gold and silver origami cranes that gleam when they catch the light. “By taking traditional Japanese elements and incorporating them into a luxurious and inviting environment, Vicente Wolf captured the spirit of a refined Japanese restaurant,” says Min Kim, Executive Chef of Mizumi at Wynn Palace. “The clean lines emphasize surprising decorative elements like the gold and silver origami cranes over the sushi counter—it all comes together to make the space outstanding.” If the attention to detail in the decor is any indication, guests are in for a treat when it comes to the food and service. Mizumi provides authentic omakase (meaning “to trust” in Japanese) experiences, where chefs craft a multicourse set dinner using fresh, seasonal ingredients flown in from Japan. The menu outlines three levels of omakase: Ume, Take, and Matsu—each of which includes seasonal appetizers, a sashimi platter, a selection of sushi, and dessert.

Whether you’re enjoying bluefin tuna from Okinawa or fresh sea urchin from Hokkaido, every ingredient has been carefully sourced from premium producers. “Japanese seasonal ingredients are the main focus at Sushi Mizumi, which expresses the true authenticity of our edo-mae (‘Tokyo-style’) sushi,” says chef Kim. “But another thing that stands out is that guests can interact directly with our sushi chefs, which is a really special part of the experience.” In most Japanese sushi restaurants, you’d expect to see just one chef behind the counter. However, diners at Sushi Mizumi are spoiled by a team of master sushi chefs who exhibit unparalleled precision as they craft each bite before your eyes. They will also take the time to explain the ingredients, preparation, and how to best enjoy each piece. Adding to the authentic atmosphere, you’ll also notice the tiny details, such as hand-cut crystal water glasses and artisanal hand-crafted pottery. As the sushi masters take you on a culinary adventure, Sushi Mizumi further enhances the experience with sake pairings—handpicked by the restaurant’s in-house sake sommelier. The possibilities include an array of rare sakes, many unique in Macau and exclusive to Wynn Palace, including Junmai Daiginjo—a rare, “A-list” sake that’s difficult to find outside of Japan. Of course, should you be craving something other than Japanese rice wine, you’re in good hands: The sommelier is also quick to pair the omakase menu with small-batch Japanese whiskies, cocktails, or even craft beers. From the personalized service to the seasonal ingredients, no two experiences at Sushi Mizumi will be alike. But one thing remains a constant: After an omakase dinner here, you’ll be grateful that you sat back and placed your trust in the experience.