Pilar Akaneya

The story

Pilar Akaneya Madrid – Sumibiyaki Wagyu Restaurant in Chamberí

Tradition, Fire, and the Most Exclusive Wagyū

At Pilar Akaneya, the ritual of sumibiyaki—Japanese charcoal grilling—takes center stage in Madrid’s Chamberí district. This is a restaurant born from a deep respect for Japanese craft, where tradition, fire, and the finest wagyū create an experience that awakens all the senses. The restaurant is recognized by the MICHELIN Guide, a testament to its uncompromising quality and the unique dining ritual it offers.

Origin and Space

Founded in 2020 by Ignasi Elías and Chiho Murata, Pilar Akaneya is the culmination of nine years of experience since the first Akaneya opened. It holds several remarkable distinctions: it was the first restaurant in Europe to offer Crown Melon, the world’s most prestigious melon from Murata’s hometown of Fukuroi, and one of the first three in Spain to serve authentic Kobe Beef. In 2023, Hiroki Ito himself began presenting his legendary Matsusaka Beef from Ito Ranch here.

The space, designed by Chiho Murata and the C97 studio, evokes the aesthetics of classic Kyoto. Handmade rice paper lamps and seven custom-built barbecue tables are arranged across two adjoining rooms. Wood, iron, clay, and ash blend to create an atmosphere of Japanese sobriety and warmth.

Chef Pepe Fernández and the Sumibiyaki Experience

Leading the kitchen is Chef Pepe Fernández, whose career path is as compelling as the food he serves. Born in Algeciras, he grew up with the flavor of “charred meat cooked over wood and tucked into bread.” After training in London and at the two-Michelin-starred El Club Allard under José Carlos Fuentes, he was invited by Chiho Murata to lead Pilar Akaneya. Together, they created the Sansekai Menu, a sumibiyaki experience inspired by Japan.

The restaurant specializes in premium wagyū, offering tasting menus that showcase the finest cuts. The experience is built around the grill, where the purity of the product and the mastery of the fire are paramount. Pilar Akaneya is a destination for anyone seeking an authentic, immersive Japanese steakhouse experience in Madrid, where every detail—from the binchōtan charcoal to the hand-picked beef—speaks of a singular dedication to craft.