Tucked away on the second floor of the Man Yee Building at 68 Des Voeux Road Central, 饗和民 (Xianghemin) offers a delightful spot for Japanese cuisine lovers seeking both comfort and quality in the heart of Hong Kong Island. This cozy restaurant provides a welcoming atmosphere perfect for weekday dinners or leisurely lunches amid bustling Central. Known for its generosity in portions like the soft shell crab spider roll and perfectly fried tempura, the menu expertly balances familiar favorites and unique Japanese-inspired dishes.
While 饗和民 is celebrated for its extensive menu and cozy seating, guests should expect a Hong Kong-style Japanese dining experience rather than strictly authentic flavors. The restaurant shines with value-driven lunch sets that include a drink, salad, and dessert, making it a popular choice for groups, families, and young couples. Signature dishes like the Wagyu Sukiyaki and ox tongue with eel rice provide variety, although some diners note the need for more generous portions or slight adjustments in seasoning. The ambience is relaxed, with friendly service and a well-managed reservation system that helps avoid wait times during peak hours.
Positive remarks : Many diners praise 饗和民 for its generous soft shell crab rolls, crispy tempura fried to perfection, and comfortable seating in a great Central location. Patrons enjoy the variety offered, including vegetarian options, and appreciate the friendly staff and convenient online ticketing system.
Constructive feedback : Some guests find the food a bit oily and salty with portions of certain dishes like ox tongue and eel rice being less generous than desired. A few reviews mention that the flavor of certain items such as the Wagyu Sukiyaki could be enhanced, and there are occasional comments about the restaurant lacking traditional Japanese authenticity.
- What are the opening hours of 饗和民? 饗和民通常在每日中午12點至晚上10點營業,但建議在前往前確認餐廳的最新營業時間。
- Does the restaurant accept reservations? 是的,饗和民接受預訂,建議提前致電或透過餐廳的官方網站進行預訂。
- Is takeout available? 是的,饗和民提供外賣服務,顧客可透過餐廳的官方網站或電話訂購。
- Are vegetarian options available? 是的,饗和民提供素食選擇,顧客可在點餐時詢問服務員。
- Is free Wi-Fi available at the restaurant? 是的,饗和民提供免費Wi-Fi,顧客可在用餐期間使用。
饗和民, known internationally as Watami, is a beloved Japanese izakaya and restaurant chain with a captivating history that began in 1986. Founded by visionary entrepreneur Watanabe Miki, the brand started as a traditional Japanese-style tavern and quickly gained popularity for delivering authentic dining experiences with a welcoming atmosphere.
Over the decades, Watami has evolved dramatically, expanding its footprint beyond Japan. A significant corporate change took place in 2017 when the HNA Group, through its subsidiary Ai Qi Yuan Wei Catering, acquired a 60 percent stake in Watami's operations in mainland China. This move signified the brand’s growing influence in Asian markets and its strategic focus on regional expansion.
However, in 2019, Watami International Limited completed a full buyback of its Chinese operations, regaining 100 percent ownership. This transition reflected the company’s commitment to maintaining control over its brand identity and culinary standards, ensuring consistent quality and customer experience across all locations.
Today, the Watami branch located at 2/F, Shop 213, Man Yee Building, 68 Des Voeux Road Central offers visitors a taste of this rich heritage. While the menu embraces a Hong Kong-style Japanese cuisine twist, it still honors the traditional izakaya spirit through diverse dishes perfect for groups, couples, and families seeking accessible Japanese flavors in a comfortable setting.
- 1986: Watami was founded by Watanabe Miki, launching its first izakaya and Japanese cuisine restaurant.
- 2017: 60% stake in Watami China was acquired by HNA Group subsidiary Ai Qi Yuan Wei Catering, marking a significant corporate partnership.
- 2019: Watami International Limited completed the full buyback, regaining 100% ownership of its China business, reaffirming its independence and dedication to quality.
Located on the second floor of the Man Yee Building in Central, Hong Kong, 饗和民 offers a unique dining experience that blends authentic Japanese flavors with a local twist. This restaurant is known for its diverse menu, featuring everything from sushi to hearty hotpots, making it a go-to spot for both locals and visitors alike.
- Authentic Japanese ambiance
- Variety of dishes
- Vegetarian-friendly options
- Inconsistent food quality
- Service can be inattentive
- Limited parking
饗和民 is perfect for casual dining, family gatherings, and quick lunch breaks. Its diverse menu caters to a wide range of tastes, making it suitable for both young couples and larger groups.
Reservations are recommended during peak hours. The restaurant also offers takeout options for those on the go. Be prepared for a bustling atmosphere, especially during lunch hours.
饗和民 is a solid choice for those seeking a blend of Japanese cuisine and local flair. While it has its imperfections, the overall experience is enjoyable, making it a worthwhile stop in Central, Hong Kong.