Pharrell Williams Collaborates with Launchpad Hospitality to Establish Two New Japanese Restaurants in Miami

Introducing Nami Nori and Matsuyoi in Miami before to their arrival at his hometown of Virginia Beach. Nami Nori is currently receiving reservations in Miami.

Image: Launchpad Hospitality

Pharrell Williams has collaborated with the Launchpad Hospitality group to establish two new Japanese restaurant locations in Miami. Skateboard P, in collaboration with his staff, is introducing one of his preferred eateries to the Design District of the dynamic Floridian city. The introduction of Nami Nori and Matsuyoi merges one of New York's premier hand-roll establishments with the ingenuity of an international innovator.

The new collaboration signifies the inaugural joint effort between Nami Nori and Pharrell. The Nami Nori Miami location commenced operations in mid-December, while the second Japanese establishment, Matsuyoi, is scheduled to open this month. This is their inaugural project after Pharrell became a partner and advisor at Launchpad Hospitality Group. Pharrell, a Miami resident, aimed to introduce these restaurants here prior to launching them in his birthplace of Virginia Beach.

Image: Launchpad Hospitality

Nami Nori and Matsuyoi are located in the same building within the Design District. Matsuyoi occupies the upper level, providing a more sophisticated, intimate, and atmospheric venue. Chef Taka Sakeda designed a multi-course dinner focused on open-style hand rolls, known as temaki. It is a 10-seat chef's station situated within a cocktail bar and lounge ambiance. A supplementary private dining room and terrace accommodate 14 individuals. Matsuyoi provides a sophisticated experience through wine and sake pairings. The design draws inspiration from wood-block artist Kawase Hasui, incorporating shou sugi ban wood and black terra-cotta tiles in the bar area to enhance the chef's counter, which is made of dark stone and accompanied by moss-green stools. Co-chef partners Sakaeda and Jihan Lee create trademark hand-rolls that include X.O. sauce scallop, tuna poke, and spicy crab dynamite for Nami Nori, located beneath Matsuyoi. Focusing on temaki, the venue reflects Miami’s beaches, including neutral hues, vibrant luminosity, and enough space.