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A Taste of Tokyo: Discovering Metro Manila's Best Japanese Eats

Craving the delicate flavors of Japanese cuisine? From the irresistible crunch of tempura to the rich, savory depths of ramen and the refined simplicity of sushi, dining at a Japanese restaurant offers an array of flavors and textures that captivate and satisfy.

With its range, Japanese cuisine has something for everyone—whether you're in the mood for something light like a platter of fresh sashimi or a hearty bowl of umami-packed miso soup.

In Metro Manila, the love for Japanese food is more than evident, with numerous Japanese restaurants dotting the cityscape, each bringing authentic tastes right to your table. No matter if you're a sushi aficionado or a ramen enthusiast, this guide will direct you to the top Japanese dining spots near you.

From traditional izakaya joints to contemporary eateries reinventing classic dishes, get ready to explore the best places to satisfy your Japanese cravings!

Manmaru – Authentic Osaka Flavors Right to Your Table

Nestled near Makati Cinema Square, Manmaru is a bustling beacon for Japanese cuisine enthusiasts, often spotted by the long lines of eager diners waiting outside. Originally known as Yatai Izakaya Osaka Manmaru in Japan, this establishment offers an authentic slice of Japanese culinary culture right in the heart of Metro Manila.

The ambiance of the restaurant mirrors the welcoming izakayas of Osaka, with spacious seating arrangements that invite diners to relax and enjoy their meal in comfort.

For sushi lovers, the Manmaru Roll is a must-try, featuring freshly-made sushi. If you’re in the mood for something with a bit of crunch, the Kushi Katsu Moriawase will satisfy your cravings with its variety of deep-fried skewers, each bite crispy and golden.

For a more filling dining experience, the Sake Bento Box offers a well-rounded meal. It includes grilled salmon, an assortment of appetizers, fresh salad, steamed rice, and miso soup, providing a filling and flavorful meal that showcases the best of what Manmaru has to offer.

  • G-1 Makati Cinema Square, Fernando St. Pio del Pilar, Makati City, Metro Manila
  • Mondays to Sundays: 11:30 AM-12:00 AM
  • Cash; Credit Card; Debit Card; GCash; Visa; Mastercard; American Express
  • Casual Dining, Japanese

Botejyu – A Japanese Culinary Journey in One Menu

At Botejyu, the breadth of Japanese cuisine unfolds in a setting that marries traditional wood decor with a hint of sophistication. Stepping into this restaurant, you're immediately introduced to an impressively comprehensive menu that covers sushi and sashimi to heartier dishes like takoyaki, okonomiyaki, and beyond. It's a culinary playground that welcomes both seasoned aficionados and newcomers to Japanese cuisine.

Start your exploration with some fresh sushi options. The Spicy Maguro Tuna Roll is a fiery delight, while the Salmon Nigiri is simplicity at its finest, showcasing the natural flavors of the fish. For those in search of comfort in a bowl, the Pork Tonkotsu Ramen, rich with Char Siu Pork, offers a deep, satisfying umami kick.

However, if it’s a combination of flavors you seek, the Grilled BBQ Pork Hokkaido Style is a filling choice, served alongside hot chahan and a crisp side salad. And for a taste of Osaka's street food scene, don't miss the Osaka Premium Takoyaki. Choose between the Smoked Bacon and Cheese Takoyaki for a smoky, creamy bite, or the Umami Sauce & Mayo Takoyaki for a classic taste with a twist.

  • Unit B11, 2/F Gateway Mall, General Aguinaldo Ave, Cubao, Quezon City, Metro Manila
  • Monday to Sunday: 10:00 AM-10:00 PM
  • Cash; Credit Card; Debit Card; GCash; Visa; Mastercard
  • Casual Dining, Japanese

Nikkei Robata – A Fusion Feast of Fire and Flavor

Nikkei Robata serves up a delicious blend of Peruvian-Japanese cuisine, with an atmosphere that's just as vibrant as its food. The restaurant sports a warm and rustic ambiance, featuring elements like exposed wood and bricks in neutral shades, all brightened by colorful murals that adorn the walls.

The highlight at Nikkei Robata is undoubtedly the robata grill. Here, top-quality meats and seafood are expertly cooked over charcoal, which enhances their natural flavors to mouthwatering levels. A must-try is the Hamachi Kama—robata-grilled hamachi collar served with tare sauce and a refreshing cilantro salad that perfectly complements the smoky taste.

For those in the mood for something a bit lighter, the Miso Salmon Roll is an excellent choice. It features salmon rolled with sesame seeds, miso mayo, togarashi, and cucumber, creating a delightful mix of flavors that are both refreshing and satisfying. Alternatively, the Ahi Tamago Poke is another great option for a filling yet light dish, combining tuna with spicy mayo, tobiko, katsuobushi, scallions, egg, sesame seeds, gohan, nori tempura, Nikkei sauce, furikake, and nuts.

  • 2/F, Greenbelt 3, Esperanza St. corner Makati Ave., San Lorenzo, Makati, Metro Manila
  • Monday to Thursday and Sunday: 11:00 AM-9:00 PM, Friday to Saturday: 11:00 AM-10:00 PM
  • Cash; Credit Card; Debit Card; GCash; Visa; Mastercard; American Express
  • Casual Dining; Japanese-Peruvian
  • Order from any of these locations/branches: Makati City, Taguig City, Pasay City

Shefu Denz – Authentic Japanese Delights on a Budget

Affordability meets authenticity in a cozy setting that might be small but surprises with big flavors at Shefu Denz. This little gem of a restaurant, tucked away and unassuming, serves up traditional Japanese dishes that resonate with the true essence of Japan, including some delicacies rarely found elsewhere.

For a start, delve into the traditional tastes with Natto, the Japanese fermented soybean, known for its unique texture and health benefits. You can enhance this experience by pairing it with Tuna Sashimi if you opt for the Maguro Natto. Don't miss their Edamame, simple yet perfectly boiled Japanese beans that make for a healthy and addictive nibble.

Their sushi rolls are another highlight, with the spicy Volcano Roll standing out as a fiery favorite, packed with flavors that erupt with each bite. For a comforting dish, the Shoyu Tonkotsu Ramen offers a warming, savory broth accompanied by perfectly cooked noodles, making it a soul-soothing choice. Add a side of crispy Tori Karaage for the perfect complement.

Seafood lovers will rejoice over the Sake Don, a bowl of fresh Salmon sashimi over seasoned rice, offering a simple yet profoundly satisfying meal.

  • 216B Aguirre Ave, BF Homes, Parañaque City, Metro Manila
  • Monday to Sunday: 11:00 AM-10:00 PM
  • Cash; Debit Card; GCash; Visa; Mastercard
  • Casual Dining, Japanese

Ooma – A Modern Twist on Japanese Classics

Find a blend of traditional Japanese and inspired modern dishes that promise to satisfy all your cravings for Japanese cuisine at Ooma. With a cool and contemporary setting decorated with elements of Japanese art and calligraphy, Ooma is an excellent choice for birthday celebrations or casual dinners with friends.

Start your meal with their Tori Karaage, fried soy ginger-marinated chicken thigh that's glazed with soy dashi. This dish is not only a crowd-pleaser but also a great start for anyone looking for a fusion of flavors in their appetizers.

For those adventurous in taste, the Taco-Maki is a must-try. This temaki revolution brings a Mexican twist to the Japanese staple, with options like the Soft Shell Crab Taco-Maki, featuring crispy soft shell crab with aligue mayo and ebiko.

For a more traditional yet hearty meal, the Gyudon is a standout choice. This dish combines beef short plate, shiitake mushrooms, onion, and fried shallots, topped with a fresh egg and house tare.

Alternatively, the Tsukemen offers a unique dining experience with fresh wheat noodles served alongside simmered beef sukiyaki, fried enoki, and a savory soy dashi broth, perfect for dipping and savoring each bite.

Sensei – A Hidden Gem for Japanese Comfort Food

Tucked away in a cozy corner of a neighborhood in the south of Metro Manila, Sensei offers a surprise to those who venture through its unassuming doors. Known for its laid-back vibe and compact size, Sensei makes every dining experience feel intimate and personal.

Start your meal at Sensei with their Maki rolls. A must-try is the Spicy Salmon, which is adorned with tenkasu, togarashi, gochujang mayo, chili oil, and ebiko, all sprinkled with sesame seeds.

For meat lovers, the Hanger Steak is a great choice for your main course. It comes beautifully plated with charred eggplant puree, crispy potato crisps, nira, mushrooms, and a rich sake-ponzu butter drizzled with truffle oil.

Those preferring something a bit lighter might opt for the Saba, a beautifully grilled mackerel served alongside eggplant and bell pepper dressed in nanbanzu. Complete your dining experience with the Beef Chahan — a hearty bowl of Japanese rice tossed with tender beef brisket and mixed vegetables, providing a perfect end to a flavor-packed meal.

  • 181 Aguirre Avenue, BF Homes, Parañaque City, Metro Manila
  • Monday to Thursday: 12:00 PM-3:00 PM; 6:00 PM-10:00 PM, Friday to Sunday: 11:00 AM-3:00 PM; 5:00 PM-10:00 PM
  • Cash; Credit Card; Debit Card; GCash; Visa; Mastercard
  • Casual Dining; Japanese

Tsukiji – A Culinary Voyage to Tokyo's Finest Flavors

Tsukiji offers a dive into authentic Japanese cuisine, with a menu that showcases the best of Japan—from soba and sashimi to crispy tonkatsu and buttery gindara. Drawing its name from Tokyo’s iconic fish market, Tsukiji was a pioneer in Manila for directly importing and serving fresh seafood and Miyazaki Wagyu beef straight from Japan.

With its reputation, diners here always try their Sashimi Mix, which includes a selection of seven types of sashimi: salmon, scallops, hamachi (yellowtail), maguro (tuna), hontoro (fatty tuna belly), tako (octopus), and ebi (prawns). Each slice is a testament to freshness and quality. If you're in the mood for something more filling, consider the Kurobuta Tonkatsu—crispy breaded pork cutlet from Kyushu, served alongside Japanese Potato Salad for a comforting meal. Alternatively, you can warm up with their Shoyu Ramen, featuring noodles in a rich soy sauce-based broth with sliced roast pork, embodying the heart and soul of Japanese comfort food.

  • 3/F Milky Way Building, 900 A. Arnaiz Avenue, Makati City, Metro Manila
  • Monday to Sunday: 11:00 AM-9:00 PM
  • Cash; Credit Card; Debit Card; GCash; Visa; Mastercard
  • Casual Dining; Japanese

Yabu: House of Katsu – The Ultimate Katsu Experience

For the quintessential katsu experience in Metro Manila, Yabu: House of Katsu is the go-to destination. Since its inception, Yabu has captivated the local food scene by being the pioneer in offering high-quality Japanese Katsu, perfectly tailored to the Filipino palate.

The secret to Yabu’s widespread acclaim lies in its expertly crafted katsu, featuring a crispy golden-brown crust encasing juicy meat. Each dish is served with a traditional set of sides, including rice, shredded cabbage, warm miso soup, and tangy pickles - all of which are refillable.

Before you dive into the main course, exploring Yabu's appetizers is a must. The Agedashi Tofu, with its panko-crusted Japanese tofu topped with bonito flakes and radish, drizzled in soy-dashi sauce.

For enthusiasts of pork katsu, the Rosu Kurobuta Katsu Set is a must-try. This premium pork cutlet, made from Kurobuta—the "Kobe beef" of pork—is renowned for its rich marbling and flavor. Alternatively, the Chicken Katsu Curry, featuring a crispy chicken cutlet atop a bed of richly spiced curry, provides a hearty and satisfying meal for those who love the spicy taste of curry.

  • 2/F The Block, North Ave cor EDSA, SM City North EDSA, Bagong Pag-Asa, Quezon City, Metro Manila
  • Monday to Sunday: 10:00 AM-9:00 PM.
  • Cash; Credit Card; Debit Card; GCash; Visa; Mastercard
  • Casual Dining; Japanese

Salaryman – A Slice of Tokyo Life in the Metro

Step into Salaryman for a slice of Tokyo right in the heart of BGC, offering a refreshing break from the city's hustle. This unique establishment spans two floors, each providing a different vibe and dining experience tailored to various preferences.

On the first floor, you'll find the main dining area, designed with a warm and inviting ambiance that's perfect for couples and small groups. Here, patrons can enjoy classic Japanese dishes like Oyakodon, a comforting bowl of chicken and egg over rice, or Tantanmen, a spicy and savory ramen that's sure to please any noodle enthusiast. The setting is ideal for intimate dinners or casual date nights, with a menu diverse enough to cater to a wide range of tastes.

The adventure continues on the second floor at 4649, a vibrant "subway-themed" bar that captures the essence of Japan's bustling metro system. Complete with train-related decor and even subway handlebars, this floor offers a playful and immersive atmosphere. It's the perfect spot to enjoy a Classic Highball, a refreshing staple in Japanese drinking culture. Pair your beverage with some delicious Butabara (pork belly) or Ikayaki (grilled squid) skewers for a truly authentic izakaya experience.

  • Bellagio Tower 2, Forbestown Rd, Taguig, Metro Manila
  • Monday to Sunday: 5:00 PM-2:00 AM
  • Cash; Credit Card; Debit Card; GCash; Visa; Mastercard
  • Bar and Restaurant; Japanese

Watami – Casual Japanese Dining Redefined

Watami brings the essence of Tokyo's vibrant dining scene right to your local area. As a leader in Japan's food and beverage industry, with over 700 branches across the Asia Pacific, Watami promises an experience that blends culinary excellence with a welcoming ambiance.

The restaurant's spacious layout includes smartly partitioned areas that provide privacy while maintaining an open feel. The comfortable, cushioned seating in printed booths adds a dash of sophistication to the space, making it ideal for both romantic dates and family dinners. The cozy yet chic environment is just the beginning of what Watami has to offer.

On the menu, the Fatty Salmon Nigiri stands out—a juicier take on the classic salmon nigiri, it promises a melt-in-your-mouth experience that sushi lovers will adore. For those with a hearty appetite, the Pork Cutlet Katsu set is a must-try; it comes with all-you-can-eat cabbage, rice, and miso soup, ensuring no one leaves hungry.

Don’t forget to try their Shrimp Tempura, light and crispy, it’s the perfect complement to any meal. Watami’s blend of quality, comfort, and authentic Japanese flavors makes it a top choice for anyone craving a genuine taste of Japan in a laid-back setting.

  • 4/F, 9th Ave cor 36th St, Uptown Mall, Fort Bonifacio, Taguig, Metro Manila
  • Monday to Thursday: 11:00 AM-10:00 PM, Friday to Sunday: 11:00 AM-11:00 PM
  • Cash; Credit Card; Debit Card; GCash; Visa; Mastercard
  • Casual Dining, Japanese

Metro Manila boasts a vibrant array of Japanese restaurants, each offering its unique spin on beloved classics from sushi to ramen, and everything in between. Whether you're in the mood for a quick bite at a casual spot or a more refined dining experience, there's something to satisfy every palate and occasion.

So why wait? Grab your loved ones, explore the rich culinary landscape showcased in this article, and dive into the delightful flavors of Japan right here in the city.

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