Since its opening in 2024, Akira Back London has made a significant mark on the vibrant Mayfair dining scene. Chef Akira Back’s innovative blend of Japanese and Korean culinary traditions continues to captivate food lovers and critics alike, cementing its place as one of London’s must-visit luxury dining destinations. Nestled within the Mandarin Oriental Mayfair, the restaurant offers a sophisticated dining experience where bold flavours, meticulous technique, and a striking design come together to create an unforgettable gastronomic journey.
Did you know? Dosa by Akira Back, an intimate Korean Chef’s Table, quickly earned a Michelin Star in 2025, highlighting the restaurant’s commitment to culinary excellence.
What Critics Have Said Since Akira Back London Opened
Akira Back London has already garnered mixed yet enthusiastic reviews from various renowned critics. SquareMeal and Elite Traveler have praised the restaurant’s striking ambience and unique culinary fusion, with dishes like the Dynamite Lobster and Tuna Pizza standing out for their innovative presentations. However, some critics, including Jimi Famurewa of The Standard, have highlighted areas where the execution could be further refined, especially in terms of the overall consistency of the dishes. Despite these critiques, the restaurant’s bold concept and stunning atmosphere have left a lasting impression on the London dining community.
Akira Back: The Chef Behind the Masterpiece
Chef Akira Back is no stranger to the global culinary scene. Born in Seoul, South Korea, he transitioned from professional snowboarding to becoming a celebrated chef who brings bold flavours and innovation to every dish. His expertise has earned him accolades across the globe, including Michelin stars for his restaurant Dosa in Seoul. With over 28 restaurants in his portfolio, Back’s international appeal is undeniable. At Akira Back London, Chef Back draws inspiration from his formative years, blending meticulous Japanese techniques with the robust flavours of Korean cuisine, creating a familiar and entirely new menu.
Mandarin Oriental Mayfair: A Jewel in London’s Luxury Landscape
The Mandarin Oriental Mayfair stands as a striking example of modern luxury. Located at the prestigious Hanover Square, this boutique hotel represents the pinnacle of urban sophistication. The hotel perfectly balances contemporary design, Asian heritage, and luxury, making it an ideal setting for Akira Back’s innovative culinary vision. The property stands as one of the most recent luxury hotels in Mayfair, designed by Rogers Stirk Harbour + Partners and Studio Indigo, offering guests a refined and exclusive experience.
The Art of Fusion: Japanese and Korean Culinary Excellence
At the core of Akira Back London’s menu is the art of fusion – a sophisticated blend of Japanese and Korean flavours. Chef Back brings together the precision and delicate nature of Japanese cuisine with the bold, earthy flavours of Korean dishes. The result is a dining experience that surprises and delights the senses. Every dish is a reflection of Chef Back’s travels, heritage, and deep respect for both culinary traditions. Ingredients are carefully sourced, with an emphasis on local seasonal produce whenever possible. Akira Back London isn’t just about food; it’s about storytelling through cuisine, where every bite reveals a new chapter in the chef’s journey.
Menu Highlights: A Culinary Adventure
The menu at Akira Back London offers a diverse range of options, ensuring there’s something for everyone. From a lavish Akira Back Breakfast, which offers a luxurious twist on the classic full English breakfast, to signature dishes like the AB Tuna Pizza and Dynamite Lobster, the restaurant offers a variety of delights that promise to be as exciting as they are flavourful. The dishes reflect the global influences Chef Back has encountered in his career, incorporating both traditional and contemporary twists. The all-day dining menu also extends to the chic ABar Lounge, where guests can enjoy expertly crafted cocktails paired with refined small bites.
The Experience at Akira Back London: A Multi-Faceted Journey
Dining at Akira Back London is not just about the food; it’s about the experience. The ambience and interior design play a crucial role in setting the tone for the meal. The restaurant’s sleek, modern design is enhanced by dramatic elements inspired by nature. From the stunning triple-height sky roof to the marble staircase that leads to the dining area, every aspect of the space is designed to captivate. Subtle references to the elements – air, water, and earth – create a calm and inviting atmosphere. For a more intimate experience, the restaurant offers private dining rooms for special occasions or business gatherings.
Akira Back London’s Pricing and Target Audience
Akira Back London operates in the upper-tier segment of the London dining scene, with prices reflecting its premium offerings and location. Guests can opt for the AB Set Lunch, which offers a two-course meal for GBP 38, or indulge in signature dishes such as the Tuna Pizza (GBP 26) and Dynamite Lobster (GBP 46). For those looking for an even more exclusive experience, the Michelin-starred Dosa by Akira Back offers a high-end tasting menu priced at GBP 185 per person. The target audience includes affluent locals, international travellers, and food enthusiasts who are willing to invest in a high-quality dining experience.
Dosa by Akira Back: A Michelin-Starred Experience
Within the walls of Akira Back London is an even more intimate dining experience – Dosa by Akira Back. This exclusive space offers guests the chance to experience Korean fine dining at its best, with a tasting menu priced at GBP 125 per person. The chef’s table concept allows diners to witness the artistry behind each dish, enhancing the immersive experience. The innovative approach and dedication to Korean culinary traditions have earned Dosa a Michelin Star in 2025, further solidifying Akira Back’s position in the culinary world. The atmosphere in Dosa is unlike any other, with a design inspired by the mineral elements of the earth, creating a sensory experience that complements the refined dishes.
Abar Lounge: Signature Cocktails and Exclusive Bites
The ABar Lounge at Akira Back London offers guests a chance to unwind with expertly crafted cocktails and refined small bites. The lounge’s energetic vibe contrasts with the more serene atmosphere of the main dining room, providing a space to relax and socialise. Signature cocktails like the Hatsuhi Sunrise and Shochili Mango tantalise the senses, while the small bites menu offers treats like Wagyu Tartlet and Korean Fried Chicken. It’s the perfect setting to enjoy pre-dinner drinks, after-dinner cocktails, or simply a relaxing evening with friends.
Ambience and Design: Where Nature Meets Luxury
The design of Akira Back London draws inspiration from nature, with elements that reflect the primal forces of earth, wind, and water. Guests are welcomed into a space that’s as visually striking as it is inviting, with dramatic features like the triple-height sky roof and sculptural wooden vortex suspended from the ceiling. The interior, conceived by Tokyo-based agency Curiosity, stimulates the senses and creates a sophisticated yet comfortable environment. The space evolves throughout the day, transitioning from a bright and airy dining area to a dynamic, energetic lounge in the evening, offering a perfect blend of nature and modern luxury.
Critical Reception and Early Reviews: A Mixed Bag
Since its opening, Akira Back London has received a range of reviews. While many critics have praised the restaurant’s design and the innovative fusion of Japanese and Korean cuisines, others have pointed out areas for improvement. For instance, SquareMeal commended dishes like the Dynamite Lobster and Tuna Pizza, while The Standard’s Jimi Famurewa awarded the restaurant two stars, citing some inconsistencies in the food’s execution. However, the success of Dosa by Akira Back, which received a Michelin Star within a few months of opening, suggests that the restaurant’s potential to become a London culinary institution is undeniable.
The Strategic Fit with Mandarin Oriental Mayfair
Akira Back London’s opening at the Mandarin Oriental Mayfair is a strategic collaboration that enhances both the restaurant and hotel’s prestige. The Mandarin Oriental Hotel Group is known for its commitment to luxury and world-class service, and Akira Back’s inclusion in the brand’s London property aligns with their philosophy. The integration of both a high-end restaurant and an exclusive private dining space like Dosa by Akira Back elevates the hotel’s culinary offerings, making it an even more compelling destination for discerning guests seeking a truly luxurious dining experience.
Launch Event and Reception: A Momentous Occasion
The grand opening of Akira Back London in February 2025 was a landmark event for both Chef Akira Back and the Mandarin Oriental Mayfair. It marked not only the launch of the restaurant but also the celebration of Dosa by Akira Back’s Michelin Star recognition. The event offered guests the chance to meet Chef Back in person and enjoy an evening filled with entertainment and top-tier cuisine. The launch further cemented Akira Back London’s place in London’s competitive fine dining scene, drawing both locals and international visitors eager to experience the latest culinary innovation.
Pricing Strategy: Affluent Clients and International Appeal
With its luxury location and Michelin-caliber chef, Akira Back London operates with a premium pricing strategy. The restaurant offers several dining options that cater to a diverse range of budgets, from the affordable AB Set Lunch to more expensive signature dishes like the Wagyu Short Rib. The pricing structure ensures that the restaurant remains accessible to a wide range of clients, from local professionals seeking a high-end lunch spot to international tourists looking for an exceptional dining experience. Given its prime location in Mayfair, the target audience is predominantly affluent individuals with a taste for luxury and an appreciation for innovative cuisine.
Conclusion
Akira Back London is set to become a key player in the city’s already competitive dining scene. Combining a Michelin-starred chef with a luxurious setting, the restaurant offers something for everyone: creative fusion dishes, signature cocktails, and an immersive dining experience that reflects the best of both Japanese and Korean culinary traditions. While initial reviews have been mixed, the restaurant’s ambitious vision, coupled with its impeccable location and affiliation with the Mandarin Oriental Mayfair, suggests a bright future ahead.
