Lewis Lin to Open Hayashi Tarō in Mills 50

The shop will offer a concise to-go menu of bento boxes

Laine Doss
Written By Laine Doss
Regional Reporter
Photo: Official

Lewis Lin is poised to become one of Orlando’s most prolific chef/restaurateurs.

The chef is gearing up for the opening of Neko San, a six-seat omakase counter with an intimate sake bar in Lake Buena Vista. But before that, he’s bringing a bento shop to the city’s Mills 50 neighborhood.

According to Orlando Weekly, Hayashi Tarō will open at 714 N. Mills Avenue in April 2026, taking over the former Royaltea space.

The shop will offer a concise to-go menu that consists of just three different “omakase” bento boxes — each one filled with seafood flown in directly from Japan’s famed fish markets. In addition, Hayashi Tarō will offer ceremonial-grade matcha tea with their order. The boxes will start at $35 each.

Hayashi Tarō will also offer in-house dining at a small eight-seat counter, allowing guests to experience the artistry of the sushi chefs at work. The tiny spot will also offer sake tasting events.

Lin has made quite the name for himself in the culinary world. His izakaya Susuru is praised for its grilled yakitori and craft cocktails, while Juju earned a nod from the Michelin Guide. Lin also owns Wagyu and hot pot restaurant, Hinabe. 

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Regional Reporter
Laine Doss is an award-winning food and spirits writer with nearly two decades of experience. Laine is the former food editor of Miami New Times and has contributed to Broken Palate, Eater, and more. A native New Yorker, Laine now resides in Hollywood, Florida with her rescue dogs, Luna and Dora.
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