Anto, a high-end Korean steakhouse that extends from the Antoya family of brands, has recently found its place in New York’s upper east side. Designed by DESFA GROUP, the general concept was ingeniously blended the Eastern and Western cultures into the space and offer visitors an immersive dining experience of Korean cuisine.

DESFA GROUP has taken an elegant and modern design approach to guide the spatial planning with various inspiration from Korean culture into the project. The dialog between tradition and modernity was seamlessly created through out the different dining scene starting from the cocktail bar, the opening seating area, the semi-private dining booth, the “Chef’s table”, and the private room located at the end of second level.

The general space features a predominant decor of rusted panels, as well as the use of solid wood and brass to create a rich and intense backdrop of minimalist design. A touch of bright colors is subtly integrated into the overall subdued color scheme through lighting and artwork that illuminate the visual experience. The narrow and elongated floor plan is commonly found in traditional New York architecture, posing a significant challenge to the project. The design team integrated the existing skylights, transforming them into the central network of light and created a sense of comfort within the space.

The curved bar counter crafted with rustic metal and tiles creates a sense of luxury at the arrival. The combination of solid wood frame structure and the light-brown mirror allows the space to extend visually beyond the existing limitation. The selection of materials brings a harmonious blend of roughness and delicacy, enhancing the spatial texture of the restaurant.

As guest enter the next space, a wall of translucent panels in the style of Xuan paper simulating natural light from windows, embellishing the booth design with cultural elements and creating a hazy eastern aesthetic.

The concept continue with a multitude of artworks in various forms and styles. From an art installation of Hibiscus flower with infinity lighting effect alongside the wine storage wall, to a model of the Korean “Turtle ship” anchors at the arrival of second floor, and ended with a large wall in the open dining space where BOJAGI, a representative of traditional Korean handicrafts made from different shades of color fabrics, was used to highlight the overall space palette.

With the spirit of creating world-class Korean cuisine, the founder of the brand envisioned Anto as an elegant dining space that weaves together diverse cultures. In the collision of tradition and modernity, Anto achieves a harmonious fusion of form and essence. It starts with a bowl and a spoon, but goes beyond just a meal. DESFA GROUP aims to provide guests with a fulfilling mind and body experience that will leave a lasting impression.