A new dining spot has opened in Central Hong Kong: Akira Back, located on the fifth floor of The Henderson. This marks the first Hong Kong restaurant by Chef Akira Back, who is known for blending Japanese and Korean flavors with Western influences. With restaurants already in cities like Paris, Dubai, Singapore, and Seoul, his arrival in Hong Kong adds to a growing international presence.
Chef Back was born in Seoul and raised in Aspen. Before becoming a chef, he was a professional snowboarder. His journey through different cultures and experiences is reflected in the food he creates. At Akira Back Hong Kong, the menu includes dishes that mix tradition with creativity. One example is the AB Tuna Pizza, which layers thin slices of tuna sashimi over a crisp base with ponzu and truffle oil. Another standout is the Toro Tartare, served with caviar and a variety of condiments inspired by Korean royal cuisine.
The restaurant also offers dishes meant for sharing, including Brother from Another Mother and Rock Shrimp Tempura. For mains, guests can enjoy items like Alaskan King Crab Legs or 48-hour Wagyu Short Ribs, a dish inspired by Chef Back’s mother’s home cooking. Desserts include playful takes on familiar flavors like Apple Harumaki, a nostalgic caramel apple served with cinnamon cream cheese or AB Tiramisu, with espresso lady finger, reinvented oolong mascarpone and burnt espresso tea ice cream.
The drinks menu features cocktails that draw from Chef Back’s background like the spicy and tangy Gochujang Michelada, the floral and refreshing Four Islands Highball, the citrus-forward Yuzu White Negroni, and the clean, herbaceous Bamboo Serenity. There’s also a selection of wines and spirits from Japan, Korea, and Europe, chosen to match the food.
The space itself was designed by AB Concept and combines modern design with artistic touches. At the entrance, a sculpture inspired by swirling water sets the tone. Inside, guests will find marble floors, metal walls, and a ceiling painted by hand. The bar area stands out with a pink marble counter and custom leather stools. The main dining room features curved lines, soft lighting, and large windows that let in natural light. Colors and textures throughout the space reflect both Japanese tradition and contemporary style. There’s also a sushi bar for a more personal experience, with artwork by Chef Back’s mother, Young Hee Back, adding a warm touch. For private gatherings, a separate room offers bold design elements like graffiti-style patterns and playful ceiling shapes.
Akira Back is the first of three restaurants planned for The Henderson. It sets the stage for a new dining experience in Hong Kong, with more to come at Summit 38 and Cloud 39, the building’s rooftop event spaces.
Akira Back Hong Kong
5/F, The Henderson, 2 Murray Rd, Central, Hong Kong
