UNI, an extraordinary new Japanese fine dining restaurant, opens this month in the heart of Paris's prestigious Golden Triangle. Created by hospitality visionary Alexander Orlov and helmed by Michelin-recognized Singaporean chef Akmal Anuar, UNI devises Japanese dining in Paris through its innovative menu, meticulously designed spaces, and unparalleled attention to detail.

Named after the Japanese word for sea urchin, a delicacy central to the restaurant's philosophy, UNI draws inspiration from the traditional Japanese Inrō, ornate cases once used to safeguard precious treasures. Like these ceremonial vessels, UNI reveals its secrets gradually, inviting guests on a sensorial journey where each course unveils new depths of flavour and artistry.

Chef Akmal Anuar brings an impressive set of accolades to UNI, having earned Michelin recognition for his work at 11 WoodFire in Dubai, Goldfish Dubai, and Otoro London. His culinary journey began in his father's kitchen and was refined through training under Belgian Michelin-starred chef Emmanuel Stroobant, experiences at Iggy's (World's 50 Best Restaurants), and collaborations with Richard Sandoval in Dubai.

At UNI, traditional Japanese techniques meet bold contemporary interpretations. Signature dishes showcase the restaurant's namesake uni alongside other premium ingredients. Each creation is presented on exquisite porcelain from Italy's Ginori and Japan's Tokyo Design Studio. 

UNI's beverage offerings reflect the same commitment to authenticity and excellence. The collection features rare Junmai Dai-Ginjo sakes from prestigious houses, including Dassai and Aramasa, elegant Japanese wines from Yamanashi Prefecture, an exclusive selection of high-end Japanese whiskies, and curated tea-inspired cocktails, each inspired by Japanese mythology.

The restaurant unfolds across three distinct spaces, each celebrating different aspects of Japanese heritage. The main dining room features a stunning golden-red fresco inspired by 18th-century Japanese painting, with stylised traditional folding screens. The secondary dining space is decorated with hand-painted woodblock prints on precious wood, reminiscent of 17th-century Japanese artistry. The private lounge channels the serene elegance of samurai residences with tatami mats, low tables, and sliding rice paper panels, accommodating intimate dining experiences of up to eight guests. 

The architecture is rich with cultural renaissance with golden screens, carefully arranged ikebana, the Japanese art of flower arrangement. Bonsai trees create an atmosphere of refined tranquility, while staff uniforms are inspired by traditional Japanese Komonos. 

Alexander Orlov, founder and chairman of Bulldozer Group, brings over two decades of luxury hospitality expertise to UNI. With more than 20 iconic venues across Dubai, Paris, London, and Marbella, Orlov is renowned for creating restaurants that seamlessly blend culinary excellence with sophisticated design and immersive guest experiences. 

Reservations are available to book now: uni-fr.com