Janina Wolkow, Founder of Sumosan, shares what sets the Bahrain outpost apart. From a dynamic menu to curated art partnerships, it’s more than just a dining destination. Sumosan Bahrain blends global elegance with the warmth of local culture
What makes Sumosan Bahrain different from your other global locations?
Every Sumosan location reflects its surroundings while remaining rooted in the philosophy we’ve nurtured from the very beginning: exceptional modern Japanese cuisine in a stylish, welcoming environment. Bahrain has its own rhythm and energy — there’s a warmth and openness here that we’ve embraced fully. At Sumosan Bahrain, we’ve created a space that feels both cosmopolitan and local, where our brand’s global DNA harmonises perfectly with the Middle East’s spirited dining culture.
How did you tailor the menu to suit Bahrain’s dining scene?
Bahrain’s guests are incredibly well-travelled and have a strong appreciation for quality and flavour. While we’ve brought our signature dishes — like the Sumosan Lobster Salad and 24-hour Miso Black Cod — we’ve also expanded the selection of raw dishes and introduced seasonal specials. We constantly attune ourselves to our guests’ preferences — observing, adapting, and innovating. Our menu breathes and evolves with the same vibrant energy that our diners bring to our tables.
What was the design vision behind the space?
Sumosan Bahrain’s venue offers a harmonious blend of spaces: a refined dining area, an intimate private room, a stylish bar lounge, and a scenic terrace. Designed by Bishop Design, each area reflects the local cultural spirit while embodying the brand’s unique identity.
The journey begins with a lush pathway leading to a striking entrance framed by layered wood columns. Inside, the venue exudes opulence, combining the brand’s signature green palette with natural materials like wood and stone, complemented by refined metal accents.
Dylan Adams of Bishop Design, the Senior Designer for the project, shares:
“The design narrative speaks softly of opulence, weaving together the brand’s signature green palette, the organic richness of wood and stone, and the polished refinement of metal cladding. Throughout the venue, we’ve included standout features — like the wave-patterned metal chains and the bold, fan-like wall installation, illuminated to create intricate natural textures — to draw the eye and captivate the senses.”
He continues: “Lighting plays an orchestral role, setting warmth and intimacy, especially in the dining area where bespoke lighting elements enhance the luxurious fabrics.”
The bar lounge, framed by glowing back-bar niches, invites guests to unwind beneath rippling ceiling panels and sophisticated engraved metallic walls. Every design detail fosters a dialogue between the venue and its guests, seamlessly blending comfort with elegance, allowing Sumosan Bahrain to fully embrace its distinctive setting.”
Tell us about your partnership with the RAK Art Foundation.
During a visit to Bahrain, I had the pleasure of meeting Sheikh Rashid Al Khalifa when I was invited to view his art exhibition at the Ritz.
What followed was a rare and special experience — a private tour of his foundation, where I had the opportunity to see not only his own beautiful works but also a number of pieces from his personal collection, thoughtfully curated over the years.
I was truly moved by what I saw. There was such depth, elegance, and quiet power in the space — it felt like a hidden gem that deserved to be shared more widely.
That’s how the idea was born: to bring a part of that world to our PDR. From now on, we’ll be showcasing works by Sheikh Rashid, or from his collection, in the space — rotated regularly to keep it evolving and ever-inspiring.
Which dishes are you most excited for guests to try?
My personal favourite is always our sushi and sashimi — I think it truly showcases the precision, quality, and care that define our kitchen. I’m always excited for guests to try any of our dishes, ideally shared between the tables to get the full Sumosan experience. That’s really how the menu is designed — full of contrasts and complementary flavours that come alive when enjoyed together.
I’d recommend starting with the Sashimi Taquitos, which are playful and beautifully balanced. The Wasabi Prawns are a longstanding favourite, offering just the right mix of indulgence and heat. And of course, the 24-hour Miso Black Cod is one of our most iconic dishes for a reason. We’ve also introduced a dry-ager in Bahrain, offering a selection of premium beef cuts that bring something new and exciting to the menu.
How do you bring Sumosan’s signature hospitality to life here?
For us, hospitality isn’t just service — it’s connection. We’ve trained our team to understand not only the menu and the flow of the restaurant but also the feeling we want to create: warm, thoughtful, and confident. In Bahrain, there’s a genuine love for hosting and making people feel welcome, so it’s been a beautiful synergy. Our team envelops guests in genuine care that transcends mere service — creating connections that transform first-time visitors into cherished regulars.
What role do you hope Sumosan will play in Bahrain’s dining culture?
We hope to become a place where people come to mark special occasions, but also somewhere they return to regularly — whether it’s for a Saturday lunch, dinner with friends, or simply a great cocktail at the bar. Sumosan is about more than food — it’s about shared moments, ambience, and enjoyment. We’re proud to contribute to Bahrain’s growing dining landscape and to offer an experience that captures global excellence while resonating with the soul and rhythm of this extraordinary island kingdom.
