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.

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