The sushi spot always had customers enjoying their meals at the outdoor tables along the sidewalk. The dining room, although nothing extraordinary, was consistently clean and inviting, featuring floor-to-ceiling windows that allowed passersby to peek inside. It was a popular hangout for local middle school and high school students who would eat there after tutoring sessions at the nearby Starbucks. Couples also frequented the restaurant for affordable dining, and the chicken teriyaki dish was a favorite among those who were not fans of California rolls or sushi in general. Oh, kids!
I'm talking about the Sushi Maki along Sunset Drive at 5812 Sunset Dr., which has just closed its doors after 25 years in South Miami.
The original Sushi Maki location in South Miami had a large dining room with floor-to-ceiling windows
Sushi Maki photo
A Family-Run Miami Staple Since 2000
Founded in 2000, this location was the sushi chain's first ever store, which is a huge deal for a company that has since grown into a giant wholesale and catering business in South Florida, in addition to its restaurant model. But its story might be even more inspiring than its success.Sushi Maki's story begins with the Ng family's journey from Hong Kong to Miami, where patriarch Allan Ng arrived with just $70, a high school education, and an unwavering work ethic, according to the restaurant. Starting with a modest Chinese takeout spot, Allan built what would become the successful Canton Chinese Restaurants brand, which at one point was all over Miami, including in Pinecrest. His son, Abe Ng, inspired by his father's tenacity and entrepreneurial spirit, returned home after graduating from Cornell University to take the family business in a bold new direction.
In 2000, he opened the first Sushi Maki in South Miami, determined to make sushi more accessible and mainstream in a city better known for its cafecito than its sashimi.
Abe reached out to New Times' food editor Nicole Lopez-Alvar when he read this story on Wednesday, July 23. He writes, "This store was indeed our very first and holds many special memories for us. We have loved being on Sunset Drive all of these years and watching this neighborhood grow and transform. It was with a heavy heart that we made this difficult decision. Life — and especially the restaurant business — is full of tough choices, and we have faith the future will continue to bring more opportunities. I am an optimistic realist, and I truly believe that Sushi Maki's best years are still ahead of us."
Sushi Maki Still Thrives in South Florida
From its humble beginnings, Sushi Maki has grown into a beloved South Florida staple with locations in Coral Gables, Palmetto Bay, Kendall, and even inside Whole Foods Markets and Miami International Airport.With 12 locations and 12 market stations in partnership with Whole Foods, Abe's mission remains clear: to bring fresh, feel-good sushi and positive vibes to as many people as possible. Judging by the loyal following and recent New Times' win of Readers' Choice Best Catering 2024, he's just getting started.
