4 Best Japanese Restaurants in Manila

There’s always something special about eating at a Japanese restaurant. Part of Japanese cuisine’s charm is its versatility - it can be enjoyed alone or with a group. If you need something fresh, savory, and hearty, check out any Japanese restaurants in Manila. These top restaurants share a rich symphony of flavors with tradition-filled dishes. 

Manila's Must-Try Japanese Dining Destinations

Manila’s food scene is filled with diverse flavors; Japanese food constantly stands out from the sea of international tastes. The cuisine of the land of the rising sun is renowned for its thorough preparation and artful presentation. Here are some outstanding Japanese restaurants in Manila, where each bite takes you on a gastronomic journey. 

Ginzadon
 

Taking its name from Japan’s well-known luxury district Ginza and the Korean term for money, ' don,’ Ginzadon puts a twist on the usual Japanese restaurant menu by combining Japanese and Korean food. If you’re a fan of side dishes, you’ll surely love it here because there are two kinds of side dishes - okazu and ban chan. 

Their maki rolls and sushi are highly praised for their quality and flavor. The seafood used for their sushi is fresh and high-quality. There are eight types of sushi but availability depends on the ingredients. 

You can spice things up by ordering Galbi Bi Jim (braised rib stew) and kimchi stew. These classic Korean dishes will appeal to your palate and make you want additional servings! Make a reservation since it can get packed, especially on the weekends. 

Yamazato
 

If you want an exquisite dining experience for a special occasion like a wedding anniversary or family reunion, this Michelin-starred Japanese restaurant is the best place for your celebration.

Yamazato specializes in kaiseki and teppanyaki dining. Kaiseki dining gives you an unobstructed view of the chefs preparing sashimi and sushi. They also allow you to reserve a private teppanyaki room to savor your meal quietly. 

Another thing that makes Yamazato unique is their kaiseki for kids where the meals are served in a box to be revealed one at a time. The portions are enough for a kid-sized appetite and they wisely arrange the food to incorporate vegetables!

Adults also get to treat themselves to the wide array of wines and sake that perfectly accompany the meal sets. For Japanese haute cuisine that makes your milestones even more memorable, Yamazato has the perfect venue. 

Yawaragi

If you don’t like having limited food choices, Yawaragi Buffet has a full range of Japanese and Filipino specialties that will satisfy your taste buds. 

The Kisetsu Buffet pays homage to the principle of Japanese cuisine that believes in using high-quality ingredients at the peak of their flavor. Upon entering, you will be greeted by the driftwood sculpture at the center of the marble and glass-dominated dining hall. Depending on the group size and privacy you need, you can book their private dining spaces. 

Indulge in their top-notch seafood, which is Yawaragi’s hallmark offering. You can feast on Irish oysters, king crabs, and Boston lobsters, but it is important to note that sometimes menu choices are different on weekends and weekdays. 

For Japanese ramen lovers looking for variety in the usual noodle stock base and flavors, try their hotspot station where you can taste unique soups like their salmon hotpot. Make sure you get the full buffet experience by partnering their crowd-favorite tempura with their free-flowing drinks - buko juice, champagne, wine, and many more!

Conclusion

Japanese restaurants in Manila offer an immersive cultural ambiance, transporting diners to the heart of Japan. From traditional decor to authentic tableware, the ambiance complements the dining experience, creating a sense of connection to Japanese culture.

Japanese culinary techniques like teppanyaki and kaiseki offer a unique and interactive dining experience. Watching skilled chefs showcase their knife tricks, grilling techniques, and meticulous preparation adds an element of entertainment to the meal, making it an event rather than just a dining occasion.

Beyond the delectable flavors, it explores culture, artistry, and unique dining experiences that leave a lasting impression, making each visit to these Japanese restaurants in Manila a delightful and memorable affair.