Savor traditional Japanese cuisine in Charlotte

This SouthPark restaurant practices the oldest form of Japanese cooking.

A chef tends to meat grilling in the kitchen of a restaurant.

Mizu Sous-chef Tyler Maney lays skewers over hot charcoal in tradition with Robata grilling.

Photo by CLTtoday

Food is a necessity but it can also be an artistry. Located atop the Hyatt Centric Hotel in the heart of SouthPark, Mizu is the only restaurant in Charlotte where guests can enjoy traditional Japanese Robata cooking.

Considered the oldest form of Japanese cooking, Robata began centuries ago by fishermen who prepared seafood by laying skewers over a wood grill. The practice evolved to charcoal — where the high heat locks in the juice— providing food with incredible flavor and texture.

A photo of grilled chicken skewers laid on a plate.

After sampling, this editor highly recommends the delicious Yaki-Tori chicken skewers.

Photo by CLTtoday

Led by Executive Chef Luis Vargas-Diaz, guests can savor meat, seafood, and seasonal vegetables while witnessing the sparks and bustle of live-fire cooking.

Mizu provides an elaborate selection of Maki sushi rolls + a list of delicious cocktails. There are also plenty of options for vegetarian guests.

Furniture on a rooftop bar sits idle as a sunet over the Southpark skyline descends in the distance.

A great time to visit Mizu is just before sunset. Lucky guests will get a pristine sunset view over the SouthPark skyline from the rooftop balcony.

Photo by CLTtoday

Whether it’s date night, a work event, or celebrating a family night out, Mizu offers a vibrant yet intimate atmosphere. The decor and lighting fixtures pay homage to the Japanese influence that has cultivated into a savory menu + an experience found nowhere else in the Queen City.

More from CLTtoday
Dining in Charlotte is always a fresh experience, with new restaurants popping up all the time — and more on the way. From a classic hamburger to fine dining, bookmark this page to keep in the know about all the new restaurants coming to town.
Charlotte is getting ready to watch the Kentucky Derby in style.
Farms across the Charlotte region are welcoming guests for the strawberry season to pick fresh fruit.
Here’s what the drought means for your lawn, your wallet, and what comes next.
We sat down with the barbecue expert to ask about his experiences on “Top Chef,” and to ask his expert opinion on Charlotte’s food scene.
What to expect at two of Charlotte’s outdoor venues ahead of concert season.
From the return of “Phantom of the Opera” to Broadway newcomers like “Death Becomes Her,” theater lovers will experience a showstopping season in Uptown.
Plot Twist aims to be the “cool older sister” behind Trope Bookshop, offering all-day coffees, cocktails, and a hangout space in the community.
The July Fourth display will bring the Knights and the Charlotte Symphony together to honor the 250th anniversary of the United States and feature the annual WBT Sky Show.
This is your chance to score new records or longtime favorite albums at local stores participating in the music lovers’ holiday.