Shota Nakajima Kevin Lee Justin Weiss event headshots 2026

FIU Embrace Dinner hosted by Shota Nakajima, Kevin Lee and Justin Weiss

Ticket price listed is inclusive of all taxes and fees.


Ticket price listed is inclusive of all food and drink.

WHEN?
Thursday, February 19
7:00 PM - 10:00 PM

WHERE?
Zuma Miami at Kimpton EPIC Hotel
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General
Admission

Ticket price listed above is inclusive of all taxes and fees.
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Things to Know

What's Included

All food and drink is included at this event.

Dress Code: Smart Casual

A polished yet relaxed look. Opt for slacks, button-down tops, and dresses. Low heels or dressy flats optional.

Seated

Indoors

Wines

21 years of age and older


Description

Join us at Zuma Miami, the globally acclaimed Japanese izakaya-style restaurant overlooking the Miami River, for a special evening in support of FIU Embrace. This intimate dinner brings together three powerhouse chefs — Shota Nakajima, Kevin Lee, and Justin Weiss — for a one-night-only culinary collaboration that celebrates innovation, artistry, and purpose.

Nakajima, a Top Chef finalist and James Beard Award nominee, is celebrated for his modern interpretations of Japanese cuisine that balance precision and creativity. Kevin Lee, a rising culinary star, is known for his bold, boundary-pushing dishes that fuse tradition with contemporary technique. Justin Weiss, Zuma Miami’s Executive Chef, brings his signature flair for sophisticated Japanese dining, ensuring each course reflects the restaurant’s globally recognized standard of excellence.

Together, these chefs will craft a multi-course menu that showcases their individual perspectives while harmonizing beautifully with Zuma’s refined, waterfront ambiance. Expect vibrant flavors, elevated presentation, and expertly paired beverages for an unforgettable evening.

Beyond the culinary experience, this dinner supports the transformative mission of FIU Embrace, dedicated to empowering individuals with disabilities, chronic illness, and neurodiverse communities through advocacy, education, and inclusion.

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General
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Ticket price listed above is inclusive of all taxes and fees.
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Additional Event Information

Guests will be assigned seating prior to this event. We can only guarantee that tickets purchased within the same transaction will be seated together. If you would like to be seated with another guest(s) who purchased ticket(s) separately, please send your request via email to [email protected]. The Festival cannot guarantee the accommodation of specific dietary requirements (including preferences and allergies) at this event. Please contact us at [email protected] no later than two (2) weeks prior to this event to inquire if the venue and chefs can assist with your request.

100% of net proceeds from the Festival benefit students of the Chaplin School of Hospitality & Tourism Management at Florida International University who assist Festival organizers in all aspects, including Festival planning, logistics and overall execution.

All guests must adhere to the Festival bag policy.

To request materials in accessible format, register a service animal and or secure an accommodation, please contact FIU’s Office of Civil Rights Compliance and Accessibility (OCRCA) at 305.348.2785 or [email protected] at least two weeks in advance of the event or at the earliest possible opportunity.

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