That's why we've rounded up five must-try Japanese spots in Luzon that will satisfy your cravings for authentic and quality Japanese food. So, let's dive in!
Photo by Saigosan
Nestled in Uptown Mall, Saigosan is a Japanese restaurant that boasts a modern and vibrant interior, showcasing the lively pop culture of Japan. What sets this restaurant apart is its Western-Japanese fusion menu that presents innovative twists to classic Japanese dishes. If you're looking for something different from your usual sashimi or tonkotsu ramen, Saigosan has got you covered with its modern takes on these favorites. Now, going to their menu—for an exciting and tasty appetizer, try Saigosan's Mini Volcano (P280), their take on California rolls. These rolls are packed with a harmonious balance of flavors that make them a perfect introduction to Saigosan's innovative Japanese menu. You shouldn’t also miss out on indulging in their Grilled Yakiniku Don with Egg (P445) - a mouth-watering dish of super tender and extra flavourful beef strips. This restaurant's version of yakiniku don is a must-try and might even become your new favourite.
Photo by Kureji
It’s a small but cozy Japanese that can make you feel like you’re in a traditional Japanese izakaya, complete with wooden furniture, dim lighting, and an overall cosy atmosphere. Their menu is filled with a variety of dishes that are made with fresh and high-quality ingredients, including classic Japanese favourites such as ramen, tempura, and sushi. However, what sets Kureji apart from other Japanese restaurants is its unique and creative take on these classic dishes. One of their must-try dishes is their Kureji Omelette Rice (P280), which features a fluffy egg omelet on top of a bed of steaming hot rice, served with your choice of beef or chicken. This dish is bursting with flavour and texture, making it a perfect comfort food that will satisfy your cravings Another standout dish at Kureji is their Gyoza (P180), which features pan-fried dumplings filled with a mixture of ground pork and vegetables, served with a side of tangy soy-vinegar dipping sauce. These dumplings are crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside, making them a perfect appetizer or side dish to share with friends.
Photo by Katsu Sora
Katsu Sora specializes in katsu, a classic Japanese dish of breaded and deep-fried pork or chicken cutlets. Their menu boasts an impressive selection of katsu dishes made with top-notch ingredients, carefully chosen for their quality and tenderness, including premium imported pork and chicken. The Premium Tonkatsu Set (P375) is a must-try, featuring a thick and succulent pork cutlet that's expertly breaded and fried to perfection. It comes with unlimited servings of Japanese rice, miso soup, and a fresh cabbage salad. For seafood lovers, the Seafood Katsu Set (P485) is a standout dish, with a medley of prawns, scallops, and fish fillet that's expertly breaded and deep-fried to a crispy golden brown. Like the tonkatsu set, it's served with unlimited rice, miso soup, and cabbage salad. If you're seeking a chic and contemporary Japanese restaurant that offers delectable katsu dishes, Katsu Sora's various locations across Luzon are a must-visit.
Photo by Kazunori Japanese Restaurant
Located in the charming nooks of Kapitolyo, Makati lies Kazunori Japanese Restaurant, an alluring culinary haven also known as Kazu Cafe. Its snug and inviting atmosphere sets the perfect stage for the contemporary twist on traditional Japanese dishes that await foodies in the vicinity.
The Chicken Teriyaki Don is a true standout dish, priced at a reasonable P550. It features a crispy and succulent chicken katsu served on a bed of fluffy rice, bathed in a delectable egg and onion sauce that tantalizes the taste buds. The dish is topped off with a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds and green onions, adding depth and dimension to its already sensational flavours. And let's not forget about the sushi roll, an absolute must-try on the menu, priced at P380-1000. This roll boasts a fresh and luscious tuna mix, mixed with a mayo sauce and nestled in a cosy bed of vinegared sushi rice. The crowning glory of this roll is the crispy tempura flakes that elevate its texture, providing an irresistible crunch with every single bite.
Photo by Kikufuji Izakaya
Kikufuji is a little slice of Japan tucked away in the bustling streets of Little Tokyo in Makati. This unassuming restaurant may be small in size, but it is big on flavor, serving up some of the best Japanese cuisines in the area. Kikufuji's Gyu Don (P250) is a delectable and filling meal that is perfect for any time of day. This dish features succulent slices of beef that have been expertly marinated in a luscious and savoury sauce before being cooked to perfection. The beef is then placed atop a mound of piping hot rice and topped with a flawlessly prepared fried egg. Each bite is a heavenly combination of tender beef and creamy yolk, guaranteed to satisfy any palate. Another must-try dish is the Katsudon (P260) a quintessential Japanese comfort food that is sure to tantalize your taste buds. The pork cutlet is coated in panko breadcrumbs and expertly deep-fried to a crispy finish, creating a satisfying crunch with every bite. Served with rice, the dish is topped with a delicious sauce, caramelized onions, and a perfectly cooked fried egg, all contributing to a delectable blend of flavours. The combination of the crispy pork and fluffy rice creates a perfect harmony, while the sauce adds a delightful sweetness and umami flavour.
