Zitz Sum Restaurant in Miami: A Profile

Zitz Sum is a contemporary Asian-inspired restaurant located in Coral Gables, Miami. The restaurant is known for its fusion of Japanese, Italian, and Chinese flavors, and specializes in dumplings and small plates. In 2022, Zitz Sum was awarded the Michelin Bib Gourmand designation, which recognizes restaurants that offer good quality food at a reasonable price.

Chef and owner Pablo Zitzmann’s unique culinary vision has earned Zitz Sum a spot on the list of the 100 Best Restaurants in Miami and Beyond in 2024. Zitzmann’s mash-up of Asian, Mexican, Latin American, and Italian influences has garnered critical acclaim and a loyal following. The restaurant’s menu features a variety of dishes, including pork belly bao buns, lobster dumplings, and wagyu beef tataki, all expertly prepared and beautifully presented.

Zitz Sum’s contemporary yet cozy atmosphere and innovative menu make it a must-visit for foodies looking for a unique dining experience in Miami. Whether you’re in the mood for a quick bite or a full meal, Zitz Sum’s small plates and dumplings are sure to satisfy.

History of Zitz Sum Restaurant

Zitz Sum is a contemporary Asian-inspired neighborhood restaurant located in Coral Gables, Florida. It was founded by Chef Michael Zitzmann, a Colombian chef who began his culinary journey at a young age. After working in various restaurants in Miami, Chef Zitzmann decided to open his own restaurant that would offer a unique fusion of Asian and Italian cuisine.

Zitz Sum started as a pop-up restaurant from Chef Zitzmann’s home in 2020, and last year he converted it to a brick-and-mortar on Coral Gables’ Alhambra Circle. The first year-plus involved a lot of trial and error, but with time and the confidence of positive reviews, the restaurant “has gotten to the point where we’re really finding our voice.”

The restaurant’s name, Zitz Sum, is a play on Chef Zitzmann’s last name and the Cantonese word for “together.” The name reflects the restaurant’s mission to bring people together through food and create a sense of community.

Zitz Sum’s menu is inspired by Japanese, Italian, and Chinese flavors, featuring small plates and dumplings that are perfect for sharing. The restaurant’s focus on small plates and communal dining is meant to encourage guests to try a variety of dishes and share their experience with others.

Since its opening, Zitz Sum has received numerous accolades, including a 2022 Michelin Guide Bib Gourmand. The restaurant has quickly become a local favorite, offering a unique dining experience that is both approachable and sophisticated.

Location and Ambience

Zitz Sum is located in the heart of Coral Gables, Florida, on Alhambra Circle. The restaurant is situated inside a bank building, which might seem unusual at first, but adds to the unique and cozy atmosphere of the place. The restaurant is easily accessible, with plenty of parking spots available nearby.

Upon entering the restaurant, guests are greeted by a warm and inviting atmosphere. The interior is modern and stylish, with a touch of Asian-inspired decor. The dim lighting and soft music create a relaxing and intimate ambiance, perfect for a romantic dinner or a night out with friends.

The seating options at Zitz Sum are diverse, ranging from cozy booths to larger tables for bigger groups. The restaurant also has an outdoor seating area, perfect for enjoying the warm Miami weather while savoring the delicious food.

Overall, the location and ambience of Zitz Sum are a perfect reflection of the restaurant’s unique fusion of Asian and Italian cuisine. The friendly and welcoming atmosphere, combined with the stylish interior and cozy seating options, make for an unforgettable dining experience.

Menu Highlights

Zitz Sum’s menu is a fusion of Japanese and Italian cuisine with a touch of Latin American and Asian influences. The menu is subject to daily changes, but there are some standout dishes that are always worth trying.

One of the most popular dishes on the menu is the Wagyu Beef Carpaccio. The thinly sliced beef is served with truffle oil, parmesan cheese, and arugula. The combination of flavors and textures is simply divine. The Crispy Octopus is another must-try dish. The octopus is cooked to perfection and served with a spicy aioli sauce that adds a nice kick to the dish.

For those who love pasta, the Spaghetti Carbonara is a must-try. The pasta is cooked al dente and served with a creamy sauce made from egg yolks, parmesan cheese, and pancetta. The dish is simple but incredibly flavorful.

If you’re looking for something a little more unique, try the Pork Belly Gyoza. The dumplings are filled with juicy pork belly and served with a soy-based dipping sauce. The combination of flavors is simply amazing.

Finally, no meal at Zitz Sum is complete without trying one of their signature cocktails. The Yuzu Margarita is a refreshing and tangy twist on the classic margarita. It’s made with yuzu juice, tequila, and a touch of honey. For something a little stronger, try the Samurai Sling. This cocktail is made with gin, cherry liqueur, and lemon juice and packs a punch.

Overall, Zitz Sum’s menu is innovative and delicious. There’s something for everyone, from meat lovers to vegetarians. The restaurant’s fusion of Japanese and Italian cuisine is unique and exciting, and the daily changes to the menu keep things fresh and interesting.

Notable Chefs and Staff

Zitz Sum is known for its talented chefs and staff who bring their unique experiences and skills to the kitchen. Here are some of the notable chefs and staff at Zitz Sum:

Chef/Owner Pablo Zitzmann

Pablo Zitzmann is the chef and owner of Zitz Sum. He has worked in the kitchens of renowned chefs such as Michelle Bernstein and Jean-Georges Vongerichten. He has also been recognized for his work at No Name Chinese, Zitz Sum’s predecessor, and was able to beat Iron Chef Bobby Flay in his own kitchen. Pablo’s mash-up of Asian, Mexican, Latin American, and Italian influences earned him a Michelin Bib Gourmand designation in 2022. Born in Georgia and raised in Chile, Pablo brings a unique perspective to the Miami restaurant scene.

Chef de Cuisine Alex Chang

Alex Chang is the Chef de Cuisine at Zitz Sum. He has worked in some of the best kitchens in the world, including The French Laundry and the Momofuku restaurants in New York City. Alex is known for his creative approach to cooking, and he brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to the kitchen at Zitz Sum.

Pastry Chef Veronica Manolizi

Veronica Manolizi is the Pastry Chef at Zitz Sum. She has worked in some of the best restaurants in Miami, including Alter and KYU. Veronica is known for her inventive desserts, which often incorporate Asian flavors and ingredients. She brings a unique perspective to the pastry program at Zitz Sum.

General Manager Brooke Mallory

Brooke Mallory is the General Manager at Zitz Sum. She has worked in the restaurant industry for over a decade, and she brings a wealth of experience to her role at Zitz Sum. Brooke is known for her friendly and welcoming demeanor, and she ensures that every guest at Zitz Sum has a memorable dining experience.

Customer Experience

Zitz Sum offers a warm and welcoming atmosphere that makes customers feel right at home. The friendly staff greets guests with a smile and is always ready to provide recommendations or answer any questions they may have.

The restaurant’s interior is cozy and intimate, with dim lighting and comfortable seating that creates a relaxed and comfortable ambiance. The decor is modern and chic, with Asian-inspired accents that add to the overall aesthetic.

As for the food, customers rave about the quality and flavor of the dishes. The menu offers a wide variety of Asian-inspired small plates and dumplings that are perfect for sharing. The portions are generous, and the prices are reasonable, making it an excellent value for the money.

The restaurant also offers a full bar with an extensive wine list and a variety of cocktails and beer. The drinks are expertly crafted, and the bartenders are knowledgeable and friendly, making for an enjoyable drinking experience.

Overall, customers leave Zitz Sum feeling satisfied and impressed with the quality of both the food and the service. It’s the perfect spot for a date night or a night out with friends, and it’s sure to leave a lasting impression.

Reviews and Ratings

Zitz Sum has received generally positive reviews from customers and critics alike. The restaurant has a 4.2-star rating on Yelp based on 196 reviews, with many customers praising the food, service, and atmosphere. One reviewer wrote, “The food was amazing, the service was friendly, and the atmosphere was great. I highly recommend this place.”

Condé Nast Traveler also reviewed the restaurant, describing it as a “funky 60-seat restaurant” with a unique focus on Asian-inspired dishes. The review praised the restaurant’s “impeccable service” and “warm, welcoming, gracious hospitality.”

The Miami-based food blog The Infatuation also reviewed Zitz Sum, noting that the restaurant’s menu stands out from other Miami restaurants. The review states, “Our point is, if you eat out in Miami often enough, menus blend together into a mash of tartares, octopus, and burrata blobs. Zitz Sum, however, is different.”

Overall, Zitz Sum appears to be a popular choice among those looking for a unique dining experience in Miami. With its focus on Asian-inspired dishes and commitment to service and hospitality, the restaurant has earned a solid reputation among locals and visitors alike.

Community Involvement

Zitz Sum is not only a restaurant that serves delicious food, but it is also actively involved in the community. The restaurant regularly participates in local events and supports various organizations and charities.

One of the ways in which Zitz Sum gives back to the community is by hosting fundraising events. For example, in 2022, the restaurant hosted a charity dinner to raise money for the Miami Children’s Health Foundation. The event was a huge success, and Zitz Sum was able to donate a significant amount of money to the foundation.

In addition to hosting events, Zitz Sum also supports local organizations. The restaurant has donated food and resources to various charities and non-profits, including the Miami Rescue Mission and the Lotus House Women’s Shelter.

Another way in which Zitz Sum is involved in the community is by supporting local farmers and producers. The restaurant sources many of its ingredients from local farms and markets, which not only supports the local economy but also ensures that the food is fresh and of the highest quality.

Overall, Zitz Sum is a restaurant that is committed to making a positive impact on the community. Whether it’s through hosting events, supporting local organizations, or sourcing ingredients locally, Zitz Sum is dedicated to giving back to the community that has supported it over the years.

Future Plans

Zitz Sum has quickly become a popular spot in Miami for those looking for a unique dining experience. The restaurant has already received numerous accolades, including a Michelin Guide Bib Gourmand in 2022. With its success, it’s no surprise that the team behind Zitz Sum has big plans for the future.

One of the most exciting plans is the expansion of the restaurant. Zitz Sum hopes to open additional locations in other parts of Miami, as well as in other cities across the United States. This will allow more people to experience the delicious fusion of Asian and Italian cuisine that Zitz Sum has to offer.

In addition to expanding the physical locations, Zitz Sum also plans to expand its menu. The restaurant is always experimenting with new flavors and dishes, and they hope to continue to push the boundaries of what’s possible with their unique fusion cuisine. This means that customers can expect to see new and exciting dishes on the menu in the coming months and years.

Finally, Zitz Sum is committed to continuing to provide excellent service to its customers. The restaurant’s friendly and knowledgeable staff are always happy to answer questions and make recommendations, and they plan to continue to go above and beyond to ensure that every customer has an enjoyable dining experience.

Overall, the future looks bright for Zitz Sum. With its delicious food, friendly service, and ambitious plans for expansion, it’s clear that this restaurant is here to stay.