The top line: Set in the former site of Turkish restaurant Rüya in the heart of Mayfair, MA/NA is a new luxury Japanese dining and drinking destination inspired by the concept of ‘mana’ - the Japanese belief that every ingredient carries an invisible power. The restaurant is designed as a progressive experience, moving from refined dining to an intimate late-night cocktail bar, bringing together Japanese cuisine, cocktails, wine and sake within a striking, design-led interior suited to its Mayfair address.
The menu: Led by executive chef Leo Tanyag, the menu balances tradition and modernity, drawing inspiration from across Japan’s culinary landscape. Small plates include o-toro tartare with fatty bluefin tuna, avocado, truffle soy, kaiware, tobiko, daikon, fresh wasabi and rice crisps; and avocado aburi with grilled avocado, Japanese teriyaki mushrooms and spicy aioli; alongside larger signatures such as gindra saikyo-yaki - roasted North Atlantic cod with yuzu miso, pickled kimchi daikon and edamame; and A5 Wagyu Ishiyaki, where tenderloin is seared on a Himalayan salt stone and served with garlic ponzu and Asian leaves. MA/NA is also one of a handful of restaurants in London officially certified to serve Kobe beef, which is selected only from the Tajima strain of Japanese Black cattle raised in Hyōgo Prefecture. Desserts feature a dark chocolate fondant paired with wasabi ice cream; and a yuzu crème brûlée with coconut crumble, lime-yuzu gel and fresh strawberries. The bar programme is led by Thesleff Group Bar Director Pietro Collina with signature serves featuring the Noble Martini made with Grey Goose Altius Vodka, dry vermouth, Château d’Yquem and lemon twist; the Goya Sour with Haku Vodka, Yuntaku Japanese Amaro, pineapple, peach and passion fruit; and a Bamboo Piña Colada with Bacardi Ocho, pineapple, charred coconut cream and pandan.
The vibe: Interiors are designed by Los Angeles studio OV&CO, inspired by Kyoto’s autumnal palette and the energy of Tokyo after dark. Dark timber, soft amber lighting and sculptural detailing define the space, anchored by a dragon-shaped banquette that winds through the room as a central design feature. A handblown Magma light installation by EWE Studio acts as a focal point, while a private dining room for up to 20 guests offers an intimate setting for celebrations and exclusive experiences.
And another thing: MA/NA describes itself as the world’s first fully gluten-free Japanese restaurant, approved by Coeliac UK, and operates an entirely nut-free kitchen.