Udon know what you’re missing!
From sushi to curry to tempura to teriyaki to ramen and so much more, Japanese cuisine just has so many flavors, textures, and tastes to offer! And while it’s no wonder that Japanese restos have become so popular and widespread all over Metro Manila, finding that perfect spot for you can be quite the challenge!
That’s why Booky has come up with our list of favorite and best Japanese restaurants. Read on for the Top 10 Japanese Restaurants we can’t let gyoza of!
10. Ganso-Shabuway – multiple branches
Ganso-Shabuway is an international franchise from California that offers Japanese style hot pot. They serve all-natural grass fed beef, fresh produce and other hot pot toppings.
It’s for people who are looking for a healthier dining option.
It’s not for sushi lovers.
Recommended dishes: Wagyu beef set, their Seafood Deluxe Set.
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9. Tajimaya – Makati
Tajimaya is one of the most underrated and secret gems in the metro. It offers affordable eat-all-you-can premium meats and seafood on charcoal grill. Includes: beef, pork, chicken, cuttlefish, special sausage, shrimp, salad, rice, squid roll, kimchi, bottomless iced tea.
It’s for foodies who want to try Japanese grilling.
It’s not for people who unique flavors of sushi.
Recommended dishes: Tajimaya Tamagoyaki, Wagyu Jou Karubi, Tsukene
TIP: They also have branches in Mall of Asia, Alabang Town Center, and Vista
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G/F, One Rockwell West Tower, Rockwell Center, Rockwell, Makati
8. Soru Izakaya – multiple branches
Soru Izakaya is a modern Japanese restaurant offering innovative takes on cuisine classics. The culinary style is referred to as the “new Nippon” which translates to new Japanese.
It’s for Japanese food enthusiasts craving a different approach to their favorite dishes.
It’s not for loyalists to traditional Japanese cooking.
Recommended dishes: Royal Seafood Teppan, Maguro Furai Maki, Ika Aburi
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140 Maginhawa St, Sikatuna Village, Diliman, Quezon City
7. Shinsen Sushi Bar & Restaurant – Sapphire Bloc and Hampton Gardens
Shinsen is a homegrown Japanese bar and restaurant serving the freshest and finest classic Japanese dishes. The kitchen staff is proudly Filipino and was trained professionally by Japanese chefs.
It’s for anyone craving authentic Japanese food.
It’s not for those looking for fusion dishes or modern twists.
Recommended dishes: Maguro Sashimi, Chirashi Sushi, and Kari Kari Kari Yaki.
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North Tower, The Sapphire Bloc, Sapphire Road, Ortigas, Pasig | Hampton Gardens Arcade, C. Raymundo Ave.
0977-899-1105 | 0977-855-1105
6. Mendokoro Ramenba – multiple branches
If you’re willing to splurge and slurp on some seriously delicious ramen, Mendokoro Ramenba is the place. You get every penny’s worth with their deeply savory broths, flavorful meats, and fresh noodles–all in one umami bomb of a bowl!
It’s for those who are craving ramen
It’s not for those who are on a tight budget
Recommended dishes: TanTanMen, Gyoza
5. Icho – Annapolis
Icho offers Japanese favorites like sushi, sashimi, rolls, donburis, teppanyaki, robatayaki, aburi sushi and ramen. This is their first branch in the Metro.
It’s for people who are looking for a new Japanese resto to try in the Greenhills area.
It’s not for those who prefer the gritty hole-in-the-wall vibe of Little Tokyo.
We recommend: Hiroshima Kaki Motoyaki, Ebi Jyu, Shake Sashimi
Reservations are accepted
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6 Annapolis Street, Greenhills, San Juan
4. Unakichi – Makati
Never tried Unagi but dying to give it a taste? You definitely should head over to Unakichi. They have a wide variety of unagi dishes that are a luxury to the taste buds!
It’s for those who want to try something new
It’s not for those who want budget-friendly meals
Recommended dishes: Unajyo Sho, Hitsumabushi, Tenju Set, Sashimi Set
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Makati Square, GF, Amorsolo Street, Makati, Metro Manila
3. Yayoi – multiple branches
Yayoi specializes in serving Teishoku set meals which are comprised of a main dish, side dish, miso soup, and freshly steamed rice all on one tray. These kinds of meals are an ode to the foundation of Japanese cuisine and with each bite, you’ll surely taste the authenticity.
It’s for those who want set meals
It’s not for those who are looking for sashimi
Recommended dishes: Yakiniku Jyu, Namban Teishoku, Mix Toji Teishoku
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2. Kikufuji Izakaya – Makati
Kikufuji is one of the popular Japanese restos in the metro for their hefty portions of fresh, authentic, and undeniably delicious dishes. They have grilled entrées, sashimis and sushi, tempura, and so much more. Do note that they can be very busy, so prepare to wait!
It’s for those who have big appetites!
It’s not for those who don’t like waiting in long lines and long service
Recommended dishes: Kani Salad Special, Salmon Don, Grilled Wagyu Beef Cube Skewers
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2276 Pasong Tamo St. Pio Del Pilar Makati, Philippines
1. Nikkei – multiple branches
Nikkei is a homegrown concept that showcases Japanese-Peruvian dishes. Each of their branches offers something special–Nikkei flaunts their ceviche and sashimi; Nikkei Nama Bar has the best rice bowls, while Nikkei Robata gives you the best of Japanese grilling.
It’s for those who want chill vibes and a laidback atmosphere
It’s not for those looking for a casual dining type
Recommended dishes: Soft shell crab roll, Nikkei Cevhiche, Hamachi Kama, Grilled Salmon Belly with Mushrooom Risotto
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