About Us
Our Story
UKIAH Japanese Smokehouse is a unique concept created as a collaboration between a group of friends. James Beard Nominated Chef Michael Lewis, Steven Haigh and Lizzy Maynes, (Kyu, Zuma) joined forces with seasoned restaurateur Michael Sponaugle to create a neighborhood restaurant serving Japanese soul food mixed with American BBQ.
Their first restaurant, opened in downtown Asheville in 2021, opposite the iconic music venue, The Orange Peel. After much success, the team found a perfect riverfront location for there second location in downtown Fort Lauderdale. This location is opening April 2025.
WHAT'S WITH THE NAMESponaugle: It spells “haiku” backwards, reflecting a little bit on our approach to food… structure and balance, turned upside down… | WHAT YOUR FAVORIT PART OF HOSPITALITY?Haigh: For me, it's the people. From the team to the guests, I love that everyday is a new experience.There is nothing better than a sea of smiling faces, enjoying good food, music and hanging out. | WHAT’S YOUR FAVORITE THING ON THE MENU?Maynes: That’s a tough question – I guess it depends on how I’m feeling! But you can’t go wrong with some sliced Hamachi, crispy Beech Mushroom, and Smoked Short Rib. |
Our Team
UKIAH’s menu was created by award winning Chef / Owner Michael Lewis. Chef Lewis has been involved in the culinary industry for over 25 years. Beginning in New York City, he trained under Chef Eric Ripert of Le Bernardin, Chef David Bouley, and most significantly, Chef Jean-Georges. where he worked in many of his restaurants, during which gained three Michelin stars. Most recently, he was Global Executive Chef for seven years at high-end Japanese restaurant Zuma, and then opened his own successful Asian inspired restaurant, KYU where he received numerous recognitions, including a James Beard nomination for Best New Restaurant within its first year.