Mayfair is no stranger to headline-grabbing openings, but the launch of MA/NA Mayfair promises to raise the bar. Helmed by London dining impresario Markus Thesleff, this high-concept Japanese restaurant and bar is set to open on 20 April 2026 at 30 Upper Grosvenor Street, offering a luxurious blend of fine dining, cocktail culture, and late-night entertainment.
What Makes MA/NA Special?
At the heart of MA/NA lies the Japanese philosophy of ‘mana’—a spiritual life-force believed to exist in all things. This ethos informs every aspect of the restaurant, from the carefully curated menu to the lighting, music, and overall atmosphere. The concept is designed as more than just a meal; it’s a seamless dining-and-drinking experience where cocktails flow into dinner, and dinner effortlessly transitions into a late-night cocktail session.
The venue boasts 156 covers, with spaces designed to accommodate both intimate dinners and lively social gatherings. This dual identity makes MA/NA unique in Mayfair, offering a sophisticated night out rather than a conventional sit-down experience.
The Team Behind MA/NA
Thesleff’s credentials speak volumes. The restaurateur is the driving force behind London favourites such as Los Mochis, LUNA Omakase, JUNO Omakase, and Sale e Pepe, as well as international projects including OKKU Dubai and Pangaea Nightclub.
Leading the kitchen is Executive Chef Leo Tanyag, whose experience spans Thesleff’s London venues and OKKU Dubai. Tanyag’s menu marries traditional Japanese techniques with a contemporary London-ready twist, balancing precision with indulgence.
On the bar side, Bar Director Pietro Collina—formerly of Viajante87, Nomad, and Eleven Madison Park—brings world-class expertise to MA/NA’s cocktail program, which features Japanese-inspired creations, meticulous technique, and rare spirits.
A Menu Designed to Impress
MA/NA’s menu is a showcase of refined Japanese cooking with standout ingredients and elevated presentation. Diners can expect dishes that combine indulgence with precision, from Ebi Wasabi, tiger shrimp tempura served with a creamy wasabi sauce, to Edamame Aburi enhanced with black truffle for a smoky, aromatic twist. The Kani Tartare Salad layers king crab with yuzu masago and delicate caviar pearls, while Spicy Tuna Crispy Rice delivers a satisfying crunch paired with bold umami. Sushi offerings like Scallop Dynamite Maki glazed with sweet soy sit alongside robata-grilled meats such as Bulgogi Robata, featuring bone-in ribeye with sesame soy. For tableside drama, Wagyu Ishiyaki is seared on a Himalayan salt stone, creating a rich, interactive dining moment. Completing the menu is a decadent Truffle and Garlic Fried Rice, perfectly balancing indulgence and comfort. Every dish is designed to impress both the palate and the eye, offering a full spectrum of Japanese flavours elevated for a London audience.
Beyond Dinner: A Complete Night Out
MA/NA sets itself apart by doubling as a cocktail-led destination. Guests can enjoy:
- A serious sake, wine, and rare spirits selection
- Japanese-inspired cocktails with intricate technique
- A late-night soundtrack curated by resident DJs
This dual identity means the venue works for a quick post-work drink or a full evening of dining and socialising, blending luxury and entertainment seamlessly.
The design, crafted by OV&CO, enhances this vision. Key features include a dramatic dragon-shaped banquette winding through the lounge, the handblown ‘Magma’ lighting sculpture by EWE Studio, an open wine room with a dedicated sommelier station, and a private dining room for up to 20 guests. Every element contributes to the sense of ritual and theatre that defines MA/NA.
Opening Details and Verdict
MA/NA opens on 20 April 2026 at 30 Upper Grosvenor Street, London. While bookings are not yet live, interested diners can register on the official website to secure priority access.
With its combination of luxury Japanese cuisine, expertly crafted cocktails, and a late-night entertainment edge, MA/NA is poised to be one of 2026’s most anticipated London openings. For those who appreciate precision in every dish, craft in every cocktail, and a dining experience that doubles as a night out, MA/NA promises to be a landmark Mayfair destination.
To find out more or to join the wait list for a reservation click here
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