The Fusion of Cantonese Cuisine and SAKE HUNDRED NIKO at Forum Restaurant
In a remarkable culinary development, the renowned three-Michelin-star restaurant, Forum Restaurant in Hong Kong, has started serving SAKE HUNDRED’s prestigious sake "NIKO" from May 2026. This collaboration marks an exciting intersection between top-tier Cantonese cuisine and exquisite Japanese sake, reflecting the brand's commitment to enriching lives through flavor.
SAKE HUNDRED is driven by the mission to "enrich hearts and color lives," and it has positioned itself as a leading international luxury sake brand, expanding its influence beyond Japan. Since 2025, the brand has aimed its international expansion toward the Asian market. Notably, in the upcoming Oriental Sake Awards 2025, SAKE HUNDRED’s "Raihi" has been named a category champion, with "NIKO," "Shirin," and "Amai Iro" winning gold medals, further solidifying the brand’s reputation.
A significant milestone in SAKE HUNDRED’s popularity came in February 2026 when a lottery sale for its flagship sake "Byakko" received over 1,000 applications, selling out within moments. Amidst this rising acclaim, the introduction of "NIKO" at Forum Restaurant showcases the company's growing presence in the Hong Kong market.
Forum Restaurant: A Culinary Landmark
Established in 1977, Forum Restaurant is celebrated as one of the top Cantonese dining establishments globally. In 2020, it achieved the prestigious three-Michelin-star status, a testament to its excellence, making it one of only two Chinese restaurants in Hong Kong to reach such heights. The founder, Yeung Koon Yat, known as the "Abalone King," is credited with mastering abalone dishes, having impressed prominent figures like Deng Xiaoping by serving exquisite meals. Under the leadership of current Head Chef Adam Wong, who began his culinary journey at Forum in 1992, the restaurant has maintained its three-star status for six consecutive years.
Chef Wong’s dedication to crafting exceptional Cantonese dishes enhances the dining experience, aligning perfectly with the refreshing profile of SAKE HUNDRED’s "NIKO." This sake, with its juicy pear-like aroma, complements the delicacies of Cantonese cuisine, including premium ingredients like bird's nest, lobster, and abalone.
Innovations in Pairing Fine Chinese Cuisine with Japanese Sake
Jacky Luk, the head sommelier at Forum Restaurant, stands at the forefront of redefining how Cantonese dishes and beverages interact. His recognition as the inaugural recipient of the "Sommelier Award" in the Michelin Guide for Hong Kong and Macau underscores his expertise in creating innovative food and drink pairings. His endorsement of "NIKO" bolsters the sake's reputation within the restaurant, affirming its suitability alongside Cantonese creations.
Having previously partnered with luxury hotels and fine dining restaurants, SAKE HUNDRED’s venture into one of Hong Kong's finest Chinese establishments illustrates the brand's versatility and commitment to expanding its horizons. The introduction of "NIKO" is not merely an operational choice—it's a symbol of the harmonious relationship between Japanese and Chinese culinary traditions.
A Glimpse into Future Plans
SAKE HUNDRED continues to grow its presence in prestigious venues globally, with plans to conduct pairing events in Thailand, Taiwan, and Australia throughout 2025-2026. Notable collaborations include Michelin-rated restaurants that underscore the brand’s ongoing mission to elevate the cultural appreciation of sake within diverse culinary landscapes.
By introducing its sake in celebrated foreign kitchens, SAKE HUNDRED not only solidifies its status in the premium yakiniku realm but also enhances its identity in Asian gastronomy. This is just one of many steps SAKE HUNDRED is taking to redefine the standards for Japanese sake worldwide, thereby ensuring its growth and influence in the luxury beverage market.
Conclusion
The launch of SAKE HUNDRED's "NIKO" at Forum Restaurant is a groundbreaking moment that exemplifies the potential of sake beyond its traditional pairings. With a focus on relationship-building and cultural exchange, SAKE HUNDRED is poised to not only satisfy taste buds but also create memorable experiences for those who cherish life’s finer moments.