The name of the restaurant, Waku Waku, which opened on August 15, 2023, means something like “pleasing” or “exciting” in Japanese. The idea to open a 2D restaurant came from the owner’s wife, who knows and loves this type of eatery from Asia. Within four months, the drawings depicting a connection of Japan and Manchester, were made in the restaurant by themselves – without an artistic background. Before the Hong Kong-born owner moved to Manchester with his family two years ago, he worked in a bank.
But it’s not just the unusual design in black and white that stands out, but also the dishes and drinks-some are specially created in color. The chef, also from Hong Kong, has come up with special creations such as sushi with caramel. Fans of Japanese cuisine will definitely find what they are looking for: The menu includes sushi, sashimi, nigiri, carefully selected maki creations, the rice bowl donburi, omurice, an omlet of fried rice and scrambled eggs, undon noodles, teriyake squid, as well as delicious desserts.
