The highly anticipated opening of Zuma Vail is finally here, bringing a touch of global culinary flair to the slopes of Vail. This new restaurant, a part of the renowned Azumi group, is set to serve guests its signature izakaya-style cuisine, adding a unique dining experience to the town's après-ski scene. With a rich history spanning over 25 years, Zuma has established itself as a global brand, with locations in London, Hong Kong, Dubai, and now, the United States, specifically in Miami, New York, Boston, and Las Vegas. Vail's addition to the Zuma family marks its first alpine location in North America, catering to the energy and clientele of this vibrant ski resort town.
The restaurant's interior design is a masterpiece in itself, transforming the space at The Sebastian-Vail. From the carved timber screens to the original Japanese beam pillars with glowing amber resin inlays, every element contributes to a warm and inviting atmosphere. The cozy booths along the perimeter and the sushi or robata counters provide a unique dining experience, allowing guests to witness the culinary artistry firsthand. Private dining rooms are also available for those seeking a more intimate gathering.
The menu at Zuma Vail is a celebration of the brand's beloved dishes, ensuring consistency across its global locations. Signature staples like spicy beef and miso black cod are served alongside innovative creations. Chef Marco Cannata emphasizes the importance of these signature dishes in keeping guests returning, while also offering new and exciting options. The menu features a variety of starters, including crab salad with avocado, mizuna, and sesame dressing, as well as tiger prawn tempura. For the main course, wagyu skirt steak with shiso sauce and salt-grilled branzino are recommended. And for dessert, the Vail-inspired maple cheesecake with huckleberry and kokuto graham crumble is a must-try, even if it means no room for anything else!
What sets Zuma Vail apart is its commitment to creating a vibrant atmosphere. The restaurant features a DJ booth, curated by a global head of music, to enhance the dining experience. This blend of culinary excellence and entertainment caters to the après-ski crowd, building up the mood for dinner and beyond. The energy of Zuma Vail is infectious, and it's largely attributed to the talented staff, both locally and globally.
The opening night of Zuma Vail was a grand affair, marked by a private pre-opening dinner and the traditional cracking of a barrel of sake. Francisco Troncoso, Azumi's group culinary director, engaged the crowd with a question, "Are you ready?" The enthusiastic response, "Hai!" (yes in Japanese), set the tone for the evening. Nick Fielding, senior vice president for Azumi, expressed his emotions, highlighting the collective effort that went into bringing Zuma Vail to life. The team's gratitude and excitement were palpable, and they can't wait to welcome guests to their new alpine haven.
