Dining at MA/NA Mayfair, a newly established restaurant in one of London’s most prestigious areas, offers not only a chance to indulge in some of the finest authentic Japanese cuisine available but also a vibrant atmosphere ideal for enjoyable meals with friends. Owned by the Thesleff Group, which also operates Los Mochis, Juno, Luna Omakase, and Sale e Pepe, MA/NA presents a luxurious yet relaxed environment that is both chic and inviting.
Located just a short distance from Hyde Park, MA/NA brings together several appealing elements. The restaurant features high-quality ingredients and expertly crafted cocktails, such as the Blistered Margarita, which combines Patrón Silver Tequila, lime, and blistered jalapeño agave for a sophisticated flavor with a spicy finish. The ambiance is enhanced by comfortable music levels, allowing guests to enjoy uplifting tunes while easily engaging in conversation. Additionally, the staff is friendly, discreet, and knowledgeable, creating a welcoming atmosphere that feels like an extension of one’s own living room.
The Concept and Design
MA/NA derives its name from the Japanese concept of ‚mana,‘ which embodies the belief that ingredients possess a unique power—an invisible force that contributes to life. This philosophy informs the restaurant’s approach to food and drink, as well as the overall design of the space, which was crafted by the Los Angeles-based studio OV&CO.
The interior is adorned in warm brown and golden hues, reflecting the serene warmth of a Kyoto autumn blended with the vibrant energy of Tokyo at night. This cocooning and refined design aligns with current aesthetic trends.
The restaurant occupies a spacious ground floor, cleverly divided into sections through varying levels. Guests are welcomed through a lobby into a lounge and bar area, where skilled bartenders are ready to prepare a cocktail of choice. A taste chart on the menu categorizes drink options by flavor profiles—such as ‚refreshing,‘ ‚umami,‘ ’spirituous,‘ or ‚fruity’—to assist patrons in their selections, with non-alcoholic options also available.
Descending a few steps leads to the main dining area, highlighted by a handblown Magma lighting installation from EWE Studio. For more intimate gatherings, a private dining room accommodating up to 20 guests is also available.
Culinary Offerings
MA/NA Mayfair promises a discerning menu inspired by the life force of ingredients and the invigorating power of nature. Executive chef Leo Tanyag leads the culinary team, offering a diverse à la carte menu that includes vegetarian, fish, and meat options, all gluten-free. Classic Japanese flavors are prominent, featuring dishes like O-Toro Tartare, teriyaki mushrooms, sesame, Wagyu tenderloin, and wasabi, all served in generous portions. Sharing dishes is highly recommended.
Some standout selections include:
- Iwa-ebi Wasabi (rock shrimp tempura paired with wasabi mayonnaise)
- Nasu (buttery miso aubergine)
- Scallop maki (rich yet balanced)
- Signature A5 Wagyu Ishiyaki steaks, renowned for their tenderness and refinement
MA/NA is among the few restaurants in London officially certified to serve Kobe beef, sourced exclusively from the Tajima strain of Japanese Black cattle raised in Hyōgo Prefecture.
Guests can complement their meals with a selection of wine or sake, with the house sommelier available to assist in choosing the perfect pairing. After dining, patrons can return to the bar for playful cocktails, crafted under the guidance of Thesleff Group’s bar director Pietro Collina, who has an impressive background at establishments such as Viajante87, Nomad, Side Hustle, and Eleven Madison Park.
MA/NA Mayfair is located at 30 Upper Grosvenor St, London W1K 7PH.
About the Author
Ellie Stathaki serves as the Architecture & Environment Director at Wallpaper*. With a background in architecture from the Aristotle University of Thessaloniki in Greece and a focus on architectural history from the Bartlett in London, she has been part of the Wallpaper* team since 2006. Stathaki has traveled extensively, visiting notable buildings and interviewing prominent architects, and has contributed to various publications and judging panels.
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