KŌ by 99 Sushi Bar Makes Its Spanish Debut at the Iconic New Santiago Bernabéu Stadium
With its unbeatable location, refined menu, and buzzing social scene, KŌ by 99 Sushi Bar is set to be Madrid’s newest must-visit hotspot for lovers of luxury and gastronomy.
It’s going to be one of the openings of the year. And undoubtedly, one of the most anticipated arrivals on the city’s luxury scene. Grupo Bambú, the powerhouse behind the high-end culinary group 99 Sushi Bar, is bringing its newest and boldest concept to life this January. Enter KŌ by 99 Sushi Bar, a modern izakaya that will open in the exclusive gastro zone of Madrid’s much-talked-about New Santiago Bernabéu Stadium.
The brainchild of the De León brothers—Fernando and Pedro—who founded Grupo Bambú in 2005, this expansion is just the beginning. Following Madrid, KŌ will soon open additional locations in Abu Dhabi (summer 2025) and Dubai (2026), continuing the brand’s international footprint.
A Fresh, Bold Concept with a Twist
KŌ by 99 Sushi Bar is a contemporary reinvention of the traditional izakaya—a lively yet refined Japanese tavern designed to celebrate the art of social dining. Expect vibrant energy, innovation, and, of course, a spectacular blend of Japanese gastronomy and nightlife glamour.
This 600-square-meter haven can accommodate up to 99 guests and features an elegant dining area, an exclusive terrace that’s destined to be the chicest summer hotspot in Madrid, and several VIP rooms for those seeking a more private dining experience. It’s where the finest in Japanese cuisine meets the buzzing heart of the city.
Jaime Castañeda, Grupo Bambú’s International CEO and one of the creators of the KŌ concept, shares, “KŌ stays true to the culinary excellence of 99 Sushi Bar while introducing a dynamic, bold space where food, drinks, music, art, and fashion all come together. It’s more than just a restaurant; it’s a vibrant urban meeting point, a playground for the stylish and in-the-know crowd of Madrid.”
A Culinary Experience Like No Other
The KŌ menu has been carefully curated by Grupo Bambú’s Culinary Director, Rubén Guerrero, who brings his years of experience to create a lineup of dishes that balance classic Japanese techniques with contemporary twists. And leading the kitchen is Executive Chef Noam Herrera, a veteran of 99 Sushi Bar and former sous-chef at the prestigious Saddle restaurant.
Highlights of the menu include exclusive creations like garlic-infused king crab with quail eggs and salmon roe, carabinero and lobster tartare with egg white and fried egg yolk, delicate tempura scallops with lime zest and fresh wasabi, and the dramatic Robata grilled dishes.
The robata (Japanese charcoal grill) takes center stage with exciting new options such as grilled free-range chicken glazed with Gochujang honey and crispy chicken skin, and Atlantic sea bass with white miso. Add in impeccable A5 Kobe beef from Japan, a selection of signature sushi, and shareable small plates, and you’ve got a truly indulgent experience.
Unforgettable Cocktails & an Impeccable Wine List
If 99 Sushi Bar redefined fine wine pairings, KŌ by 99 Sushi Bar is taking it up a notch with a cocktail menu that’s equally sophisticated. Signature drinks like Zen (spiced rum, amaretto, yuzu juice, and thyme syrup), the Last Samurai (reposado tequila, sake Junmai, and umeshu), and the 99 Spritz (Dreamy Clouds sake, vodka, Aperol, chamomile syrup, and champagne) are ideal for sipping alongside your meal or enjoying solo.
And for all-day enjoyment, look no further than the Wasabi Sour (Kobe fat, wasabi, tequila, angostura, and egg white) or the 99 G&T (Roku gin infused with watermelon and clarified double cream).
Managing the wine list is Mónica Fernández, Grupo Bambú’s Spain Director, a renowned expert who’s been recognized with prestigious accolades like the 2016 National Gastronomy Award for Best Restaurant Director and the 2017 Prix au Sommelier (Best Sommelier in the World).
A Stunning Setting
KŌ’s sleek interior is as much a work of art as the food on your plate. Designed by the De León brothers and Jaime Castañeda (who also crafted the interiors of 99 Sushi Bars in Abu Dhabi and Dubai), the restaurant exudes luxury with its premium finishes, natural materials like selected stones and woods, and carefully curated lighting that sets the perfect mood for every meal.
KŌ by 99 Sushi Bar Details
Location: New Santiago Bernabéu Stadium – Private box between Padre Damián and Rafael Salgado streets
Opening Hours: 1:00 PM to 1:00 AM, Monday to Sunday
Average Price: 125 euros
