A stunning new restaurant has opened its doors in Houston. Now open in Upper Kirby/River Oaks, Haii Keii is a boldly designed Asian restaurant that features Japanese-inspired dishes and an imaginative cocktail program in a setting inspired by the likes of Kill Bill and Blade Runner.
Open now, Haii Keii is set to become one of the most immersive new dining destinations in Houston. Designed by gin design group, Haii Keii blends tradition with innovation throughout its 3,000-square-foot space and 1,000-square-foot patio.
Per the press release, the group took inspiration from Ridley Scott’s sci-fi epic Blade Runner as well as Quentin Tarantino’s intense revenge thriller Kill Bill for its design.
Notable interior features include an inverted 8-foot Bonsai tree adorned in LED leaf clusters as a focal point. The feature is amplified in a larger-than-life red-hued mirror. Other interior design touches include a Plexi screen-like portal situated in the entryway, where visitors follow through to a lobby of scintillating metallic walls and multicolored plush seating.
The restaurant itself is equipped with projections via 8-foot Shoji screens as well as 4,000 feet of crimson rope accenting its black leather booths (pictured above_.
“Haii Keii is more than just a restaurant—it’s an experience. We wanted to create a space where people can explore the bold, diverse flavors of Asia while being immersed in an atmosphere that feels both vibrant and refined,” said Jarred Tosto, Managing Partner, in a press release. “Our goal is to deliver an unforgettable experience for every guest.”
Haii Keii’s menu celebrates the culinary diversity across Asia. Curated by Executive Chef Jeffrey Taylor and Sushi Chef Jose Espinoza, the restaurant fuses traditional with modern focusing especially on small and shareable plates. Highlights include the East Coast Oysters and Flounder Ceviche Cold Plates, Lobster Dumplings, Eel & Foie, and house-made Warm Milk Bread Hot Plates, as well as Wagyu Flights.
On the seafood side, Haii Keii offers a pristine selection of Maki, Nigiri, and Sashimi including signature maki rolls such as the Murakami Roll and Banh Mi Roll.
The restaurant also features an imaginative, Asian-inspired cocktail program. Featured cocktails include their vodka-based take on the lychee martini, Spring in Nagano, velvety Ube Espreso Martini, and JST with matcha and pandan. Japanese Whiskey, sake, wine, and beer, will also be available at the bar.
Lastly, Haii Keii will feature a Happy Hour from 5 to 7 pm Monday through Friday, where patrons can enjoy half-off dishes at the patio and bar. The venue will also roll out lunch service beginning next month.
Haii Keii is now open at 3300 Kirby Drive. Interested parties can make reservations via Toast Tables. Valet parking is available nightly.
See also: 10 highly anticipated restaurant openings in Houston