The group that brought you Yabu and Ippudo introduces two new Japanese concepts, both proudly family-owned and unforgettably delicious
Omotenashi - the Japanese principle that drives the culture’s outstanding and wholehearted hospitality. At Kiwami Food Hall, The Standard Group’s new all-Japanese destination, the sense of omotenashi is well and truly alive as they perfect every minute detail of your soon-to-be favourite foodie playground.
"[Kiwami] means master, or the point at which someone or something is best or most successful" explains John Concepcion, founder of The Standard Group. "Kiwami is all about finding the masters of each field of Japanese cuisine."
Even for this F&B giant, opening an all-new brick-and-mortar concept is an applause-worthy feat. "The secret lies in consistency: consistently good food, and consistently good service", Concepcion beams. "Once you have these two main factors, success is always possible."
Step through the sleek glass doors and enter the elegant food hall, designed by Tokyo-based architectural firm Studio MYU. Decorated with warm wooden beams that background the striking indigo hues, the interiors transport you to an exciting haven that champions four staple Japanese dishes: yakitori, tendon, tonkatsu and ramen.
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The grand food hall is not quite a food court and not quite a fine dining establishment, gracefully walking the line between the two. Recounting his travels, Concepcion notes that many food courts ultimately fail because they prioritised quantity over quality. "I decided to create a space that had a curated handful of concepts, but with the best-of-the-best food", he remarks.
The Standard Group is a stellar exemplar of an accomplished family-run business. Thus, it is especially meaningful that Kiwami spotlights the talents of two family-owned restaurants from Japan with their newest franchises: Yakitori Hachibei and Hannosuke.
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