Description:
A primarily Japanese restaurant also serving Korean food located within a residential area in Malta. The concept focuses on an informal dining experience where guests can share sushi or izakaya-style dishes such as tempura, yakitori or sashimi. Earlier night customers may also opt for a more traditionally Western three-course meal, including yakimono, agemono and teppanyaki dishes. This flexible approach appeals to a wide audience and supports both casual and structured dining styles.
Brief:
Asian food in a Mediterranean setting. The interior should emit the essence of northeast Asian culture with a combination of traditional technology and aesthetics, resulting in an informal yet elegant interior design. The building is an art deco townhouse that has undergone numerous interventions over the years. The design strategy was to remove later additions and highlight the original architectural features.
Interior:
The response to the space was to merge the existing building with Asian elements suited to its new use. The main bar and sushi kitchen are treated as built-to-fit insertions, deliberately contrasting with the host space to define flow and function.
Seating:
Seating options include high stools along the long bar, bench seating, and conventional tables and chairs, offering guests a flexible dining experience. Materials such as cypress, bamboo and Japanese cedar introduce warmth, cultural reference and a tactile hospitality aesthetic.