Aka Teppanyaki: A Modern Ode to Japanese Culinary Art

Ayse Kubilay’s restaurant blends Zen philosophy with interactive dining.

Located within the luxurious Gloria Serenity Resort Hotel on Turkey’s Mediterranean coast, Aka Teppanyaki stands as a testament to the harmonious fusion of Far Eastern tradition and contemporary design. Drawing inspiration from classic Japanese architectural elements such as Shoji and Fusuma, Ayse Kubilay has crafted a space where translucent sliding doors and backlit lattice wall panels evoke the serene ambiance of Zen philosophy. This layering of textures—combining glossy and matte woods, linen, and velvet—creates a tranquil yet sophisticated environment.

The restaurant’s centerpiece is an open kitchen and bar encircling the teppanyaki grill, transforming dining into an interactive spectacle. Here, skilled chefs perform with flames, engaging guests in a culinary display that celebrates both Japanese technique and Mediterranean hospitality. The three-dimensional ceiling, constructed from wooden and metal pipes of varying sizes, not only conceals technical infrastructure but also mirrors the vibrant reds of Japanese culture and the fiery theatrics of teppanyaki cooking.

With a capacity for 48 guests indoors and an additional 60 on the open-air terrace, Aka Teppanyaki offers an intimate yet dynamic setting. The design blurs the boundaries between interior and exterior spaces through glass partitions, fostering a fluid connection with the surrounding landscape. Pendant lights, inspired by traditional Japanese fans, illuminate the dining tables, further enhancing the cultural narrative woven throughout the space.

Every detail of Aka Teppanyaki reflects meticulous research into Japanese culture and architecture. The integration of traditional elements with modern hospitality design sets the restaurant apart, providing guests with an unforgettable journey of discovery. The innovative ceiling system, developed to discreetly house complex ventilation above the open kitchen, exemplifies the project’s technical and creative prowess.

Recognized with the prestigious Golden A' Design Award in 2025, Aka Teppanyaki has been celebrated as a trendsetting creation that advances the fields of art, design, and technology. The restaurant’s unique blend of immersive dining, architectural storytelling, and cultural homage positions it as a benchmark for contemporary hospitality design.

Aka Teppanyaki invites guests not only to savor exceptional cuisine but also to experience the artistry and wisdom of Japanese-inspired architecture, making each visit a memorable exploration of taste and design.