For a Christmas party that leans towards the polished end of the spectrum, there's MA/NA Mayfair - an upmarket Japanese dining and drinking destination that brings together refined cooking, a serious bar programme and a late-night atmosphere that'll keep you entertained all evening.
At its core is the Japanese concept of ‘mana’ - a belief in the invisible energy carried through ingredients and the hands that prepare them. It’s a philosophy that shapes the entire experience, from the food to the flow of the night, making MA/NA particularly well suited to festive gatherings that are all about celebrating the merriest time of year.
The space is beautifully designed with dark wood panelling and warm amber lighting. A sculptural dragon-shaped banquette winds through the room, while a handblown lighting installation anchors the bar area, making this one of Mayfair's most enchanting venues. In terms of size, it's perfect for medium to large groups - a whole company takeover perhaps - with 156 covers. For smaller groups, the private dining room offers a more contained experience for up to 20 guests - well suited to team dinners or client entertaining during the festive period.
Food is led by Executive Chef Leo Tanyag, with a menu that boasts both delicate, precise dishes and more robust, shareable plates that you can really get stuck into. Highlights include tiger shrimp tempura with creamy wasabi, king crab tartare with yuzu and caviar pearls, and robata-grilled ribeye with ginger, garlic and sesame soy. Dishes like Wagyu seared on a Himalayan salt stone or truffle and garlic fried rice add a more indulgent note, fitting for the season without feeling too heavy.
The cocktail programme draws on Japanese bartending techniques with a focus on a considered selection of wine and sake. And, as dinner winds down, the space transitions into a bar-led setting, with resident DJs bringing more of a party feel.