Japanese mackerel-themed restaurant brand Sabar has partnered with Hong Kong bluefin tuna chain Doraya to open a joint venture in Causeway Bay.

The new Sabar x Doraya venue, Sabar Ltd’s first attempt to establish a brand presence in Hong Kong, will serve saba (mackerel)/tuna fusion dishes from its Circle Tower location.

Sabar president Takanobu Migita said both he and Sabar’s local partner FFJ Co, which operates the Doraya restaurants in Hong Kong, believe the combination of saba and tuna will offer a new experience for gourmands in Hong Kong who like Japanese dining.

“Being in the heart of the region, the city is an excellent platform to promote our high-quality cuisines to customers in Hong Kong and across Asia,” said Migita, hinting at plans to expand in further regional markets.

Beyond its 17 locations in Japan, Sabar currently has only one other overseas outlet in Singapore.

Dr Jimmy Chiang, associate director-general of investment promotion at Invest Hong Kong, said Hong Kong people love to dine out and Japanese food is a favourite choice.

“Together with the huge number of visitors from around the world and the mainland, it is the best place for restaurants to promote their food and culture in the region.”

Source: Inside Retail Hong Kong.