25 Jun 2025 By May Ng

Steve Leung Design Group celebrates Japanese Aesthetics and Culinary Mastery at MINATO in Hong Kong

MINATO: A Contemporary Ode to Japanese Aesthetics in Wan Chai

Set within the Great Eagle Centre in Wan Chai, MINATO is the newest teppanyaki destination by Steve Leung Hospitality (SLH) and Steve Leung Lifestyle (SLL), under the Steve Leung Design Group. Seamlessly blending modern minimalism with timeless Japanese tradition, MINATO invites discerning diners into a poetic experience of design, nature, and gastronomy—just steps from the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre.

Designed Around “Ma” (ま): A Harmony of Space and Stillness
Led by Design Director Hester Lau, the space unfolds over 4,000 square feet through four tranquil themes: Mountain (山), Forest (森), Stars (星), and Moon (月). The journey begins with a dramatic black façade and artful Zen-inspired installations, guiding guests into warm interiors where wood, stone, and shoji screens create a quiet luxury.

Dining Spaces Rooted in Nature

  • Sushi Bar (Mountain): A timber-clad sushi counter for 8 guests, echoing serene mountain retreats.

  • Teppanyaki Rooms (Forest & Stars): Flexible layouts accommodate private or shared settings, with sliding doors and curated artwork reflecting nature’s quiet power.

  • VIP Room (Moon): A soft, circular space for 8, lit like a full moon—ideal for intimate gatherings.

Artful Interiors Meet Culinary Precision
Minimalist textures and bespoke decor—bonsai, Zen gardens, ceramics—create a sanctuary. Design Director Alison Lee infuses each room with seasonal narratives, while lighting master Tino Kwan lends an ethereal glow throughout.

More than just a restaurant, MINATO is a tranquil immersion into Japanese culture—where simplicity meets sophistication, and every detail is an invitation to slow down and savour.