Contemporary Japanese restaurant sets opening date at UTC

A new upscale Japanese restaurant called Zoto is opening at University Town Center on Oct. 8. It is owned by James Beard-nominated restaurateurs Jim and Johnny Tung, who also own Kosen in Tampa.

Zoto will offer sushi, craft cocktails and Japanese shareable plates, among other items. On the menu will be raw offerings such as crudo and cold tastings, sushi rolls and seasonal nigiri and sashimi featuring fish flown in from Japan, according to a statement. Grilled meats like yakitori will complement those offerings, as will entrees such as miso salmon and pork katsudon. Japanese whiskey, Asian beers, sake, wine and Japanese-inspired cocktails will also be available. 

Executive Chef Lwin Siss will lead the kitchen, with more than 15 years of experience including at Michelin-recognized restaurants Norigami and Kosen.