Following its tremendous success in London, and more recently Dubai, ROKA – the world-famous contemporary Japanese restaurant, will be arriving to Kuwait in the country’s first Waldorf Astoria. Expected to open in Autumn 2021, the iconic luxury hotel features 200 deluxe guestrooms and will be located in The Avenues, real estate developer Mabanee’s most notable 360,000 square metre leasable area development and Kuwait’s largest retail, entertainment and lifestyle destination.
ROKA is a meeting place where food and drinks are shared with friends and loved ones around the Robata (‘ro’) and heat, warmth, and an all-embracing energy surround (‘ka’). The award-winning restaurant’s modern Japanese cuisine centres around the Robata grill, which originates from the fishermen of the northern coastal waters off Japan who would cook fish on boats with different charcoals and share the food with one another using their oars.
Commenting on the exciting partnership, Chief Executive Officer of Mabanee, Mr. Waleed Alsharian said: “We are very pleased to be bringing the exceptional and renowned ROKA restaurant to Kuwait. Mabanee strives to create unique experiences for its customers, a vision that is embedded in our values as well as all projects we develop. We believe this is an ideal partnership that will add value to the prestigious Waldorf Astoria Kuwait, soon to be opening its doors this autumn.”
Sven Koch, CEO Azumi Ltd, commented: “We are delighted to partner with Mabanee Group for our first ROKA opening in Kuwait. It is an honour to work with Mohammed Abdullatif Alshaya, a true visionary and market leader. We are excited to be present in Kuwait’s largest and most visited retail and lifestyle destination – The Avenues, as well as to work with Mr. Waleed Alsharian and his team. We look forward to a flourishing future together.”
ROKA Kuwait joins an expanding network of the coveted restaurant concept, including four in London, one in Dubai, and one soon to arrive in Riyadh. Designed by Noriyoshi Muramatsu, the interiors of ROKA Kuwait will showcase key elements that connect all ROKA restaurants as well as details that are exclusive to Kuwait – demonstrating the organic evolution of the brand whilst still embodying the true ROKA spirit. As always, at the core is the Robata grill, the heart of the restaurant and from where the heat and unique energy flows.
Emma Banks, Vice President, F&B Strategy & Development, EMEA at Hilton, said: “We are thrilled to be partnering with Azumi Limited to bring this award-winning Japanese restaurant concept to Waldorf Astoria Kuwait. ROKA’s delicious cuisine and welcoming yet energetic ambiance will no doubt make it a sought-after dining destination. We look forward to bringing this wonderful gastronomic experience to our guests.”
Slated to open in Autumn 2021, Waldorf Astoria Kuwait is located directly adjacent to the popular Avenues Mall, providing seamless access to over 1,100 shops and 28 cinema screens, making it the perfect address for both leisure and business.
