It’s no secret that Japanese food is considered one of the most popular in the world. For some, no cuisine offers a better variety of yummy options to order on a daily basis. I don’t think I’m exaggerating when I say I can go an entire week of eating food just from Japanese cuisine and not get bored because of the different dishes I can try each meal time.
Japanese food is also a safe haven for couples or friends who are deciding where to hang out but can’t quite seem to put a finger on which restaurant to go to. “Japanese nalang?” is not an uncommon phrase uttered when the list of dinner or lunch options just isn’t exciting enough.
With that in mind, here are 8 Japanese restaurants in the Makati area that will certainly appease your appetites (in no particular order):
Izakaya Kikufuji or Seryna at Little Tokyo
I know what you’re thinking: these are two different restaurants that just happen to be in the same area. Well, picking only 8 Japanese restaurants in Makati is harder than you think. Besides, both of these options are still found at Little Tokyo, so you can head there and choose from either of the two, or even go to both. Let’s just count them as one option.
The area surrounding these restaurants may not be the prettiest, but only few can top the duo in terms of Japanese authenticity. From fresh sushi, to rice bowls, up to wagyu sticks, you won’t leave either of these establishments disappointed.
Ebi 10
One of Poblacion’s newest establishments, Ebi 10 is a must-try for Japanese aficionados. They’ve got a wide assortment of tempura options while their sushi rolls and other items on menu provide top-notch food. The environment also makes you feel like you’re actually in Japan, producing a great experience.
Ooma
I prefer to call this place sushi heaven. The only challenge of eating at Ooma is that you’re going to want everything on menu, but needless to say, your tummies aren’t going to be so thrilled about that.
However, I would suggest going overboard every now and then. You only live once! So the next time you visit this place, order as many rolls as you can muster!
Kai
Although a little upscale in terms of price, you can’t go wrong by eating at Kai.
If you’ve managed to save up enough money that you’d be willing to splurge a little more than normal on good Japanese dishes but not totally emptying out your pockets, this place is a must-visit. I highly recommend the wagyu options as well as the Sukiyaki.
Ukokkei Ramen Ron
If you’re looking for good authentic ramen, Ukokkei is the place to be. The items on menu are fairly priced and the variety of options will make you return multiple times. They’ve also got kick-ass gyoza that goes perfect with a delicious bowl of their numerous specialties. Let’s just say it gets the job done.
Nihonbashitei
The place I personally consider as the Swiss army knife of Japanese food in Makati, “Nihon” has got you covered regardless of what you’re craving. Sure, the setting doesn’t have the prettiest walls or the most amazing of scents, but take a look at the menu and you’ll know why everyone drools at the thought of eating here.
Want wagyu sticks? Check. Yummy miso soup? Check. Extraordinary sushi rolls? Check. Katsu curry? Check. Ramen? Check. Name it, and they’ve got it.
Mendokoro Ramenba
There’s a reason why when you head to Mendokoro, it’s a high likelihood you’ll be waiting almost an hour before getting seated.
Let’s keep it simple: Their ramen is undefeated in terms of amazingness.
Kimpura
Eating at Kimpura is so good that I know a bunch of people who make it a point to go here at least once a month. The restaurant looks beautiful the moment you walk in and the ambiance is always remarkable. There’s no sugar-coating that the food is very costly, but after a few bites you’ll quickly realize you got your money’s worth. Until today, no other Japanese restaurant in the Philippines can make fried rice as yummy as Kimpura can.
What are on your list? Tell us about them below!
