Small Business Spotlight: Inside Moody Tongue Sushi with Chef Jared Rouben

Our Small Business Spotlight series celebrates the passionate entrepreneurs, chefs and creators who help shape the vibrant culture of The Palm Beaches. From neighborhood favorites to innovative newcomers, these stories highlight the people and ideas bringing fresh energy to the destination. Read on for more on Moody Tongue Sushi.

The Palm Beaches’ culinary scene continues to evolve with standout concepts like Moody Tongue Sushi, an intimate omakase restaurant inside the Hilton West Palm Beach. Chef, brewmaster, and co-founder Jared Rouben shares the inspiration behind the MICHELIN-selected experience.

Known for pairing expertly crafted sushi with house-brewed beers, the restaurant earned a MICHELIN Selection in April 2025, highlighting its dedication to creativity, craftsmanship and hospitality.

We caught up with Chef Rouben to learn more about what brought him to The Palm Beaches, how the destination inspires his culinary approach and his favorite pairing on the menu.

What brought you to The Palm Beaches?

Jared Rouben:
The people and the culinary community. We’ve felt welcomed in The Palm Beaches for years, dating back to when we first began hosting our beer and sushi pop-ups at the Four Seasons Resort. Along the way, we built friendships that ultimately inspired us to open this restaurant with the teams at the Hilton West Palm Beach and Related, and we’ve felt like part of this growing community ever since.

How does Palm Beach County inspire you as a chef?

Jared Rouben:
The people inspire us with their culinary knowledge and appreciation for great food. Palm Beach County understands great cuisine, and sharing a menu with guests who truly value the experience and hospitality is why we got into this industry.

Do you have a favorite sushi and drink pairing?

Jared Rouben:
I love the Medai with Florida orange zest paired with our Orange Blossom Belgian Blonde. The sweet and tart notes of the Florida oranges complement the citrus profile of the beer, creating a fun and distinctly local pairing.

From thoughtfully crafted sushi to innovative beer pairings, Moody Tongue Sushi is bringing a fresh perspective to the dining scene in The Palm Beaches. Whether you’re a dedicated foodie or simply looking for a unique dining experience, this MICHELIN-selected restaurant offers a memorable way to explore the destination’s evolving culinary landscape.

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Jessica Pierce

Palm Beach, FL

Jessica Pierce is a writer and content creator for The Palm Beaches, inspired by the coastal culture, natural beauty, and vibrant lifestyle of Palm Beach County. A local for 25 years, she brings an insider’s perspective to the region’s beaches, waterways, and signature Palm Beach style. Guided by her love of photography, nature, the water, and the community she knows by heart, Jessica crafts elevated stories that capture the true spirit of the place she calls home.

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