The Japanese lounge restaurant from chef Katsuya Uechi opens in the upscale Los Angeles mall.

Ben McCarthy, the founder of Hong Kong-based design firm Charlie & Rose, talks about weaving a narrative through the quirky, retro-futuristic interiors of Sheung Wan restaurant Honjo.

The design is an eclectic mish-mash of influences. A concert venue-style marquee hangs atop the wrap-around bar, while a separate sushi counter is adorned with the names of dishes in Japanese ...