The restaurants, commissioned by award-winning architecture and interior design firm Luchetti Krelle and Steelman Partners, were recognised on the shortlist of 214 projects from over 70 countries for the world’s only dedicated food and beverage spaces award. Kiyomi, a prestigious one hat Japanese restaurant and bar helmed by internationally recognised Restaurant Executive Chef, Chase Kojima, and Amalfi Coast-inspired Italian restaurant Cucina Vivo, are shortlisted in the category for Best Australian & Pacific Restaurant.

Kiyomi layers cultural cues inspired by traditional Japanese motifs and artefacts with sharp, contemporary detailing. The venue’s standout feature is a bespoke large-scale art installation by Japanese street artist Houxo Que. The 6-metre fluorescent UV artwork echoes the restaurant and bar’s modern, yet distinctly Japanese vibe and sets the tone for the creative menu. Cucina Vivo, inspired by the cliff-top restaurants along the Amalfi Coast, celebrates the Gold Coast’s enviable climate by including a spacious outdoor terrace. In true Italian style, the use of stone and marble create strong architectural elements and add to the distinctly Italian seaside atmosphere. The International Restaurant & Bar Design Awards will be held in London on October 1 2015.