Press

ReikiNa, a combination of two Japanese words that mean “divine energy” and a snack paired with sake respectively, opened in Memorial City’s popular mixed-use development in mid-July. It hovers above an Urban Outfitters, next to RA Sushi. A hand-painted finger pointing upward directs patrons from an al fresco, brick-walled staircase.

As the pandemic raged on in the outside world last year, diners were treated to an intimate dining experience in Chef Thomas Stacy’s home. The lucky few literally stepped into the chef’s personal home and got to know what inspired Stacy during the length of a 10-course meal. The small group sat around Stacy’s childhood dining room table and took in the art he had made on the walls while listening to his collection of vinyl records.

Stacy started with a ten-course meal for friends, and turned it into a weekly tasting menu at his own kitchen table. One year later, he is now running his own brick and mortar restaurant called ReikiNa. It combines Asian flavors with European traditions. Each meal is a communal experience with small groups and the menu changes every two months.