KOKO Japanese Pub
KOKO Japanese Pub in Cocoa Beach
If you’re looking for one of the most talked-about dining experiences on Florida’s Space Coast, KOKO Japanese Pub in Cocoa Beach deserves a spot on your list. Located in the heart of downtown Cocoa Beach, KOKO has earned statewide attention as Brevard County’s first Michelin Recommended restaurant, placing Cocoa Beach on the culinary map alongside some of Florida’s most respected dining destinations.
KOKO combines the atmosphere of a modern Japanese izakaya with an elevated sushi experience, offering thoughtfully prepared dishes built around premium ingredients, traditional Japanese techniques, and creative flavors. The restaurant sources Japanese seafood, heritage meats, and fresh produce to create a menu that changes with the seasons and reflects both local and global influences.
Cuisine / Vibe
Michelin Recommended Japanese pub featuring sushi, sashimi, seasonal small plates, premium seafood, craft cocktails, sake, and an upscale yet approachable dining experience.
Contact
(321) 613-3473
Website
Hours
• Tuesday–Thursday: 5:00 PM – 10:00 PM
• Friday & Saturday: 5:00 PM – 11:00 PM
• Sunday: 5:00 PM – 9:00 PM
• Closed Monday
Why Visit Koko Japanese Pub?
• First Michelin Recommended restaurant in Brevard County
• Led by Chef Daniel Penovich, a Cocoa Beach native with experience at Michelin-recognized restaurants
• Premium sushi, sashimi, and seasonal Japanese-inspired cuisine
• Extensive sake, wine, and craft cocktail selections
• Located in the heart of downtown Cocoa Beach
Brevard County's First Michelin Recommended Restaurant
In 2026, KOKO became the first restaurant in Brevard County to be included in the Michelin Guide. Michelin inspectors recognized the restaurant for its quality ingredients, skilled preparation, and overall dining experience, making KOKO the first and currently only restaurant in Brevard County to receive Michelin recognition.
While KOKO is listed as a Michelin Recommended restaurant rather than a Michelin Star recipient, inclusion in the Michelin Guide is still a significant achievement. The recognition places KOKO among a select group of restaurants that Michelin inspectors believe are worth seeking out for exceptional dining.
Meet Chef Daniel Penovich
Behind KOKO is Chef Daniel Penovich, a Cocoa Beach native who returned home after building his culinary experience in renowned kitchens around the world. A graduate of Johnson & Wales University, Penovich worked as a chef in Copenhagen and later at Orlando’s acclaimed Kadence, where he was part of the team when the restaurant earned its Michelin Star recognition in 2022.
His experience in some of the world’s most respected culinary environments helped shape the vision for KOKO—a restaurant that delivers sophisticated Japanese-inspired cuisine while remaining approachable and connected to the local community.
What to Expect at KOKO
Guests can enjoy a menu featuring sushi, sashimi, small plates, seasonal specialties, and omakase experiences. Every dish reflects a commitment to quality ingredients and careful preparation, whether you’re ordering fresh seafood, specialty rolls, or chef-driven creations.
The restaurant also offers an extensive sake selection, Japanese and local draft beers, and a curated wine list that complements the menu.
Visit KOKO Japanese Pub
Located just a few blocks from the beach in downtown Cocoa Beach, KOKO offers visitors a dining experience unlike anything else on the Space Coast. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion, planning a date night, or simply looking to experience Brevard County’s first Michelin Recommended restaurant, KOKO delivers a memorable meal that has earned recognition well beyond the Space Coast.
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