NIWA, an elegant new omakase restaurant on Caine Road, is a tranquil oasis which magically transports diners away from the bustle of Hong Kong’s Soho district.

Located adjacent to the Shelley St escalator, the 4,000-sq ft space was reimagined by Design East, a studio that has built an impressive portfolio of sophisticated dining venues in Hong Kong.

From the moment you step past the handcrafted timber door, you feel the calming essence of a Japanese garden – Japanophile’s will have already noted that “niwa” means garden in Japanese!

Lush greenery and carefully curated botanical elements blur indoor-outdoor boundaries, creating a living “garden” atmosphere. Stone accents, granite columns, and handcrafted door handles enhance the organic feel.

Shoji screens and tokonoma-like alcoves, showcasing seasonal art, honour Japanese traditions, with wood and washi paper sourced from Japan to support traditional artisans.

Lead designer Yuki Yasukagawa says the layout encourages intimate yet communal interactions. The open-plan arrangement with one centre dining table and private rooms fosters a sense of shared experience whilst creating a sense of privacy for those who desire.

“The integration of natural elements and sightlines creates a peaceful atmosphere where guests can connect through shared appreciation of the space and cuisine,” she says.

NIWA’S design heightens sensory awareness, enabling diners to fully appreciate the culinary artistry of the omakase chefs, and to create an atmosphere that aligns with the zen philosophy of simplicity and focus.