#Japan #Tokyo #Li Hua #Reika Group #Nouvelle Chinoise

An Exciting New Culinary Destination: Li Hua in Ebisu

On April 28, 2026, a new culinary gem named Li Hua (リーホァ) will officially open its doors on the second floor of the TIME ZONE terrace building in Ebisu, Tokyo. Known as a pioneer in Nouvelle Chinoise cuisine, this brand is a proud member of the Reika Group, under the direction of the renowned chef Shigeji Niiyama. This restaurant promises to deliver an extraordinary dining experience that engages all five senses, marking a significant addition to the world of fine dining in Japan.

Legacy of Innovation

The origins of Li Hua trace back to the illustrious career of Shigeji Niiyama, who has been a central figure in the evolution of Chinese cuisine in Japan. Niiyama began his culinary journey at the age of 16 and refined his skills under esteemed chefs in Tokyo's top hotels. In 1986, he worked as the sous-chef at the celebrated Rōran restaurant, and soon after, he became the head chef. In 2004, he launched his own restaurant, Reika, in Shinjuku Gyoen, which has since become renowned for blending Shanghai cuisine with seasonal Japanese ingredients and Western techniques.

Vision and Inspiration

At Li Hua, the culinary philosophy centers around the concept of “pursuit of vivid elegance.” The name Li Hua reflects the Chinese pronunciation of Reika, and the restaurant’s aim is to elevate the dining experience beyond the ordinary, inviting guests to enjoy a multifaceted sensory journey. The menu design emphasizes vibrant presentations, utilizing seasonal ingredients and traditional Chinese dishes reimagined with a modern twist.

• - Visuals: Guests will be treated to aesthetically pleasing dishes artfully arranged with exquisite tableware that echoes the beauty of the seasons.
• - Auditory Elements: The sounds of sizzling from the kitchen and the joy of conversation will create a delightful atmosphere.
• - Aromatic Appeal: The enticing scents of herbs and spices will greet diners upon their arrival, promising an appetizing experience.
• - Tactile Sensation: The menu features delicate starters that provide an engaging tactile experience to enhance enjoyment.
• - Tasteful Creativity: Li Hua will masterfully balance flavors—spicy, sweet, sour, salty, bitter, and spicy—for an unforgettable culinary satisfaction.

Signature Dishes

Li Hua will proudly offer signature dishes from the Reika repertoire, such as Shark Fin Soup, Peking Duck, and Shanghai Crab, while also introducing new dishes that celebrate Japan's seasonal produce. The menu is designed to inspire curiosity and playfulness, revealing the depth and variety inherent in Chinese cuisine. Chef Shūtarō Miyamoto, who has trained for 18 years at Reika, will bring Shigeji Niiyama’s culinary philosophy to life in this vibrant locale.

Unique Interior Design

The restaurant features approximately 29 tsubo of private dining space, meticulously designed to create a “material and modern” ambiance. With natural materials including solid wood, iron, and plaster walls, each of the intimate rooms is uniquely themed from two to four guests, promising a new discovery with each visit. Thoughtful lighting enhances both the dining experience and the ambiance, illuminating the dishes beautifully.

Menu Highlights

Lunch Offerings:

• - A business lunch with three courses for 1,500 yen (including tax).
• - A limited short lunch course of five dishes for 3,800 yen.
• - The Umehana lunch course features seven plates for 5,000 yen.
• - A weekend lunch option that includes four dishes for 2,500 yen.

Dinner Experiences:

• - The Sakura Course includes eight exquisite creations for 9,000 yen.
• - The Kiku Course offers a premium selection of eight dishes, including abalone and shark fin soup for 12,000 yen.
• - The flagship Ran Course, featuring nine distinct meals, is priced at 16,000 yen.

Drinks:
A carefully curated selection of wines, spirits, and teas will complement the dining experience, making sure guests enjoy their meals fully.

Restaurant Information

Restaurant Name: Li Hua (リーホァ)
Location: 1-17-17 Ebisu Minami, Shibuya, Tokyo, 2nd floor, TIME ZONE terrace building
Opening Date: April 28, 2026
Hours of Operation:

• - Lunch: 11:30 AM - 3:00 PM (last order for food at 2:00 PM)
• - Dinner: 5:30 PM - 10:30 PM (last order for food at 8:30 PM)

Closed: Mondays (the following day if it falls on a holiday)
Seating Capacity: 26 seats (four private rooms)

Li Hua is set to make waves in the culinary scene and invites all food lovers to embark on an unforgettable gastronomical journey. Reservations can be made through their Instagram page.