Japanese fusion restaurant Maki is making its European debut later this year on Dean Street in London’s Soho.
The first Maki opened in Kuwait in 2002 to fuse Japanese ingredients and cooking methods with various cuisines including French, Italian, American, and Mediterranean. Makis were also opened in Bahrain and Beirut by former advertising executive Mohammed Zaitoon.
After establishing itself as a destination restaurant, Maki has won a number of awards in each country.
“This is a very exciting addition to the London restaurant scene and shows the draw of the capital for the finest cuisine,” said Salvatore Di Natale of leisure property specialists CDG Leisure, who handled the sale.
“Having something of Maki’s status in the heart of Soho will further lift the reputation of London as a global hub for the finest food.”
The Soho restaurant will open on the former site of Cookhouse Joe, which had occupied the Dean Street unit since last year.
Cookhouse Joe still operates restaurants in Soho’s Berwick Street – which was its first site opening in 2013 – and Old Compton Street – which was added last year.
Cookhouse Joe restaurants offer rotisserie chicken and a Middle Eastern menu from brunch for all day dining to cater to diners who want a quick bite during the day as well as offering table service and a more traditional dining experience in the evening.
