Maltese contemporary Japanese restaurant Aki is set to open its first international location in London’s Cavendish Square this September, in a move that brings one of Malta’s most celebrated dining experiences to the global stage.

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First launched in Valletta in 2020, Aki quickly earned a reputation for culinary excellence, securing a place in the Michelin Guide for four consecutive years. Its expansion to the UK capital will be the db Group’s first restaurant venture outside Malta.

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The new location – a Grade II-listed former bank just minutes from Oxford Circus – will feature an 80-cover dining room, mezzanine terrace, private dining area and atmospheric cocktail bars built into the building’s original vaults. The restoration is being led by Maltese-born, London-based designer Francis Sultana, known for blending classical architecture with contemporary flair.

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Aki London has already caught the attention of British food media, with features in Forbes, The London Standard, Restaurant Online, Fact London, Hot Dinners, Dine Out Magazine, and That’s Up.

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“After years honing our craft in Malta, and with the success of Aki in Valletta, we are excited to break into one of the most competitive food capitals in the world,” said db Group CEO Robert Debono. “We are transforming an exceptional listed building into a setting that will tantalise the senses through an exquisite menu, signature cocktails and an unrivalled ambience.”

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The London menu will include a refined selection of sushi, robata-grilled dishes, kushiyaki skewers and Japanese small plates, prepared with seasonal ingredients and presented with artistic flair. The bar offering will feature premium sake, Japanese whiskies, and signature cocktails such as the Rising Sun and Donabe Negroni – already generating online interest.

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The db Group has grown from a family-run venture into one of Malta’s largest operators in hospitality and leisure. Its portfolio includes the Seabank Resort & Spa, San Antonio Hotel & Spa, Melior Boutique Hotel, and a collection of restaurants including LOA, Aki, Amami and Tora, alongside franchise operations for Hard Rock Café, Starbucks and GROM.

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The launch of Aki London marks the beginning of a broader international expansion for the db Group, underscoring the potential for Maltese-born brands to succeed in the world’s most competitive markets.