The energetic downtown vibe of Studio City Downtown Los Angeles comes alive at Studio City, the casually chic Cali-Mex restaurant and bar at Hong Kong’s Fashion Walk Food Street. Serving fresh modern Mexican favourites and fun drinks, it’s the perfect excuse to pause while leisurely cruising the bustling fashion district. Designer JJ Acuna created a high-energy vibe to complement the contemporary version of Mexican cuisine. “Downtown LA is stylish and eclectic, modern details mixing with Art Deco and other unique features. It’s actually going through a renaissance as unique shops and hip eateries blossom in the gritty neighbourhood. We want that experience in Studio City.”
The designer was so thrilled to recreate the stylish vibe all the way in Causeway Bay, “It was definitely a wow moment. We initially developed the concept for Macau. But it was on hold because of Covid and I was quite sad about it. But then they told us they wanted our design for Food Street in Fashion Walk, Hong Kong’s main fashion district, and it all made sense. There’s a market that goes to Causeway Bay that prefers elevated choices, more on global cuisine rather than local. We welcomed the move and we’re happy to design the Studio-City concept for this location.”
Guests can choose to dine or have drinks al fresco or indoors. Open-air dining is always fun, although the site of the busy bar at the façade, easily invites guests to take part in the celebration. Sans the stereotype multicolour décor of Mexican restaurants, Studio City resembles a spacious warehouse with chic and stylish details, old-world touches mixed with up-cycled design.
“Our colour choice for Studio City pays homage to the original Cali-Mex brand, but with a little twist. The colours are from natural finishes of brick, clay, and stone, instead of the usual paint and gloss ceramic tiles. Colours were adjusted to suit the space, like the yellow which was muted to an almost golden shade. We used it for the windows and we really think it pops,” he said. The bold flavours of Mexican cuisine align with Studio City’s vibrant scene. With a menu that serves tacos, burritos, and quesadillas side by side with vegan and keto treats, it’s all about giving well-loved traditions a modern touch.
