Oxford has welcomed its latest new restaurant KIBOU which officially opened its doors today. The contemporary Japanese restaurant and bar opened its sixth restaurant in Little Clarendon Street, after Cheltenham, Bristol, London, Cambridge and Solihull.
The former Wilding site has undergone an impressive transformation, now boasting a striking Japanese-inspired design featuring KIBOU’s signature murals hand-painted by the talented Gloucestershire illustrator Martyna Sabadasz, and a stunning cherry blossom installation extending from the facade to the venue’s interior.
The new 100-cover place features a range of individually designed areas with multiple vantage points. The open-plan structure allows views of the sushi kitchen, a conservatory with cosy booth seating, a cocktail lounge and a thematic walled courtyard seating a maximum of 40. The private dining room, accommodating space for up to 12 guests, is also visible but is perfect for those desiring more seclusion.
In the lead up hundreds of people were given the chance to sample its menu, through dining training nights and an opening party.
The Oxfordshire Guardian was on the guest list and enjoyed an evening sampling Japanese canapes and wine, prosecco and Japanese Gin and tonic.
We enjoyed tako yaki (octopus), prawn crackers, dynamite cauliflower, salmon and avocado volcano roll, beef cheeks and bell peppers. The courtyard area was lovely – brimming with pots of hydrangeas, seating and Tokyo décor – and on Friday we were treated to a DJ’s tunes. The staff were bubbly and attentive, making the evening relaxing and fun.
However, the evening’s highlight was certainly the traditional Kagami-biraki, a sake barrel opening ceremony, to toast the launch. We counted back from three in Japanese signalling the selected guests to break open the barrel with the provided wooden hammers allowing the sake (rice wine) to be served.
Imogen Gautama-Whelan, General Manager at KIBOU Oxford, said:
“We’re thrilled to finally welcome guests to KIBOU Oxford. The venue has undergone a total redesign, and it’s been amazing to see people’s reactions when they first step through the door. We’ve received tremendous support from the local community since announcing our move here, and are thrilled to now be a firm fixture within this bustling neighbourhood. Our team, made up of both new recruits and past team members from Wilding, are eager to show off the restaurant, and I can’t thank them enough for all their hard work in getting the place ready.”
Head Chef Balazs Jakab added:
“We can’t wait to introduce Oxford to KIBOU’s unique flavour of Japan. Our menu features a wide range of classic and contemporary dishes, each crafted with passion and precision. From our slow-cooked ramen and hot Japanese sharers, to our premium sushi and sashimi platters, we aim to delight our guests with every bite.”
If this has whetted your appetite, head to www.kibou.co.uk for more information and to book a table.
