James Beard-nominated restaurateurs to open upscale Japanese spot at UTC

An upscale restaurant and bar featuring Japanese influences is heading to University Town Center in Sarasota in the form of Zoto.

The restaurant at 190 North Cattlemen Road will feature a 60-seat dining room and a 50-seat patio, taking cues from contemporary Japanese minimalist styles, according to a release. Guests enter a dark and moody space framed by soft oak wall panels, woven ceiling elements, natural greenery, and a glowing central bar that anchors the room.

Expected to open this summer, the restaurant is phase one of a two-part project. The second phase includes a hidden room called Yugen, which will feature more intimate chef’s table experiences.

According to the news release, the menu will feature elevated interpretations of Japanese food, connected with a comprehensive beverage menu including Japanese whisky, Asian beers, premium sake, an extensive wine list, and Japanese-inspired cocktails.

Zoto is being developed by James Beard-nominated restaurateurs Jimmy and Johnny Tung. “Zoto was designed to feel both intimate and open—a space that respects quiet moments, but also buzzes with energy around the bar,” Johnny Tung says in the release. 

The Tungs also operate Kōsen in Tampa.

“After seeing the response to Kōsen, we knew we wanted to expand our presence in the Tampa Bay area,” Johnny Tung says. “Sarasota has world-class beaches, and is on the rise as a top travel destination. It just felt like the right move.”

Zoto is one of several new restaurants and businesses coming to UTC, a shopping district bordering Sarasota and Manatee counties.

This article originally appeared on sister site YourObserver.com. Correction: This article was updated to correct the restaurant address.