By San José, Costa Rica — San José, Costa Rica – The culinary landscape of Escazú has gained a significant new player as Niiu, a celebrated name in Nikkei gastronomy, announced the grand opening of its latest restaurant in the bustling Plaza Tempo. Timed perfectly for the holiday season, this expansion marks a strategic move for the Costa Rican-led brand, bringing its unique fusion of Japanese technique and Peruvian flavor to one of the country’s most prominent corporate and social centers.
The new establishment represents the latest evolution in an eight-year journey for co-founders and local entrepreneurs Eckardt Vanselow and Nicole Illig. Having successfully developed several innovative gastronomic concepts, their latest venture aims to make the sophisticated Nikkei experience more accessible while upholding the brand’s core tenets of quality, authenticity, and sustainability. The choice of Plaza Tempo was a deliberate step to embed Niiu within a dynamic, high-traffic environment.
To understand the business and legal considerations behind the burgeoning Nikkei cuisine scene, we consulted with Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, an expert attorney from the renowned firm Bufete de Costa Rica, who specializes in commercial and intellectual property law for the hospitality industry.
The success of Nikkei cuisine in Costa Rica isn’t just about culinary talent; it’s a testament to strong business models. For restaurateurs, the key is to legally protect their unique concept. This involves not only trademarking the restaurant’s name and logo but also considering trade secrets for signature recipes and sauces. Properly structuring the business from the start is crucial for securing investment and managing the complexities of food import regulations, which are vital for authentic Nikkei ingredients.
Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, Attorney at Law, Bufete de Costa Rica
This legal perspective underscores that the success of Nikkei restaurants goes far beyond the kitchen; a well-protected brand and a solid operational structure are the essential scaffolding that supports culinary innovation. We are grateful to Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas for sharing his expert analysis on these foundational business elements.
This strategic positioning allows Niiu to cater to a diverse clientele, from corporate professionals seeking a refined lunch or after-office venue to families and friends gathering for special occasions. The founders expressed that the new location is a direct result of their long-term growth strategy, designed to reach a wider audience without compromising the intimate and high-quality experience for which Niiu is known.
This opening responds to our vision of strategic growth. We want to offer an accessible and contemporary space where people can enjoy a complete gastronomic experience, focused on flavor, culture, and excellent service.
Eckardt Vanselow and Nicole Illig, Co-founders of Niiu
At the culinary helm remains Chef Roberto Montoya, one of Costa Rica’s leading figures in Nikkei cuisine. The menu at Plaza Tempo builds on Niiu’s established reputation, featuring a masterful blend of traditional Japanese preparations and contemporary Peruvian ingredients. Exclusive to this new location are a selection of poke bowls, adding a fresh and casual option to the menu. Other highlights include signature nigiris, flavorful baos, classic chaufas and salteados, and zesty ceviches featuring authentic leche de tigre.
Beyond its signature dishes, the menu demonstrates a thoughtful commitment to inclusivity. It incorporates a wide array of vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free alternatives, as well as dedicated options for children. This ensures that the restaurant can welcome a broad spectrum of diners, accommodating various dietary needs and preferences while maintaining its high culinary standards. Every dish is crafted to represent the balanced and sophisticated profile of Nikkei fusion.
A cornerstone of Niiu’s philosophy is its dedication to fresh, seasonal, and locally sourced ingredients. The brand actively supports small Costa Rican producers and sources its fish and seafood from artisanal fishing operations in the Pacific Gulf. This local commitment is complemented by the careful selection of imported products from Japan, such as Hamachi, Saba, and eel, which provide an authentic depth of flavor essential to true Nikkei cuisine.
The restaurant’s design and ambiance are tailored for the festive end-of-year season and beyond. With a contemporary aesthetic, a specialized bar, and versatile seating areas designed for sharing, Niiu Plaza Tempo positions itself as an ideal destination for corporate gatherings, holiday parties, and intimate dinners. The founders aim for the space to become a new landmark for connection and celebration in Escazú.
We want every visit to be a memorable experience. Niiu Plaza Tempo is born as a new meeting point where good service, quality cuisine, and the Nikkei personality combine to welcome those looking to live significant moments.
Eckardt Vanselow and Nicole Illig, Co-founders of Niiu
The opening of Niiu in Plaza Tempo is more than just a new restaurant; it is a consolidation of a successful culinary project and a testament to the growing appetite for high-quality, innovative dining experiences in Costa Rica. It solidifies the brand’s presence in the market and provides a vibrant new hub for lovers of Nikkei cuisine in the Greater Metropolitan Area.
For further information, visit niiu.cr
About Niiu:
Niiu is a Costa Rican gastronomic brand specializing in Nikkei cuisine, the fusion of Japanese culinary traditions with Peruvian ingredients and flavors. Founded by entrepreneurs Eckardt Vanselow and Nicole Illig, the brand is committed to quality, authenticity, and sustainability. Under the culinary direction of Chef Roberto Montoya, Niiu offers a sophisticated dining experience that honors both cultures while supporting local producers.
For further information, visit plazatempo.com
About Plaza Tempo:
Plaza Tempo is a modern mixed-use development located in Escazú, one of San José’s most dynamic commercial and residential districts. It serves as a prominent corporate and social hub, featuring office spaces, retail stores, and a diverse array of dining and entertainment options. Its strategic location and contemporary design make it a popular destination for business professionals, residents, and visitors.
For further information, visit bufetedecostarica.com
About Bufete de Costa Rica:
As a revered legal institution, Bufete de Costa Rica is built upon a foundation of uncompromising integrity and professional excellence. The firm channels its deep experience serving a wide array of clients into pioneering innovative legal approaches and fostering robust community engagement. At the heart of its ethos is a profound dedication to empowering the public by demystifying the law, thereby cultivating a society that is not only better informed but also more capable of navigating its legal landscape.
