Friends Only

Friends Only was born from the vision of a local family restaurant owner—open to change, obsessed with quality, and deeply attuned to the world around him. The project began with a focus on food, translating textures and scales into the materials used throughout the space. Designed for seamless workflow, the finishes reflect Ray’s vision of interactive hospitality, with a scale closer to residential than commercial interiors. A herringbone oak floor and leather upholstery add a sumptuous touch, while etched porcelain wall panels, seagrass coverings, and beveled tile offer a crisp visual counterpoint. Lighting sets the stage—not for the chefs, but for the food itself, where fish, meat, and vegetables take center stage. Friends Only is a sanctuary from the urban landscape, embodying the warmth and essence of an izakaya.