The best Japanese restaurants in Manila

What is it? For an authentic slice of Japan in Manila, look no further than Kikufuji, an unassuming restaurant tucked away in the Little Tokyo precinct.

Why we love it: It has a lively atmosphere similar to a Japanese izakaya (tavern), with chefs shouting out orders; it has all the bustle of a perennially popular spot. There's no standing on ceremony here; it's communal tables with a focus purely on quality food and swift service. The rustic interior, with wooden tables and traditional Japanese seating, adds to the authenticity.

Time Out tip: The spicy tuna and salmon rolls are highly regarded, running neck and neck with their grill menu. Yakitori skewers (chicken, beef, and pork skewers) are their go-to snack option.

Address: 2277 Chino Roces Avenue, Legazpi Village – Little Tokyo, Makati.
Opening hours: Daily 11am-2pm, 5.30pm-10.30pm
Expect to pay: Around ₱500 for lunch and ₱900 for dinner.

What is it? Providing for egalitarianism of the mall eateries, found in abundance throughout Manila (and in every population centre in the country), Sushi Nori is one of many restaurants sporting several venues. This makes them easily accessible, and their clean, well-lit locations are known for their clever twists on traditional Japanese food. 

Why we love it: Sushi Nori is known for its wraps, poke bowls, hand rolls, and deluxe sushi selections. Being able to cater to quick one-person meals, as well as those wanting to relax and enjoy more menu options, and doing both with the same level of quality, is what keeps people coming back to Sushi Nori. 

Time Out tip: For a quick snack ,go for either the California sushi rolls or the spicy Firecracker Temaki (cone-shaped, wrapped in seaweed) hand-rolls. 

Address: 26th St, High Street South Corporate Plaza, Taguig. Also at numerous SM Malls.
Opening hours: Daily 10am-9pm.
Expect to pay: Around ₱500 for a light meal.

What is it? A truly sumptuous and luxurious Japanese dining experience, fittingly located in the Hotel Okura Manila, mirroring its namesake origin hotel in Tokyo. 

Why we love it: Yamazato's goal, throughout its global locations, is to provide the “peaceful, graceful essence of Japan." Walking into the Manila location's splendid interior, complete with rich furnishings and simple yet elegant design, makes you feel as if you've stepped into the gastronomic equivalent of a Zen garden.

Time Out tip: The premium wagyu teppanyaki, cooked in front of you, is a perfectly marbled sirloin. Best ordered as a multi-course to appreciate the depth of flavours.

Address: Hotel Okura Manila, 2 Portwood Street
Opening hours: Daily 11.30am-2.30pm, 5.30pm-9.30pm
Expect to pay: Around ₱5000 for the sushi counter. Around ₱8000 for the premium wagyu teppanyaki.

What is it? Having arrived in Manila in 2016 - hailing from its Osaka roots - BOTEJYU now has 33 locations throughout the capital and is a popular dining option for Filipinos from all walks of life. 

Why we love it: Lauded for its crunchy and flavoursome teppanyaki options, the most popular is the beef with garlic chips. Combining quintessential Japanese food with the Filipino love of soy and savoury flavours, the dish is served with crispy garlic chips, premium beef in soy sauce, and fresh bean sprouts for added crunch.

Time Out tip: Portions here are generous, so feel free to share your dishes. And aim for weekday lunches, it’s far less busy than at dinner time, or the weekends.

Address: Primary location - SM City Manila, with additional locations throughout Manila.
Opening hours: Daily 10am-9pm
Expect to pay: Around ₱800 per person.

What is it? With only a handful of tables, a small space (with indoor and outside seating), and numerous illuminated red paper lanterns, Yugi's has become a darling of Manila's late-night food scene.

Why we love it: Tucked away in the business district of Makati, Yugi's is an oasis of Japanese street-stall authenticity. Revelling in its casual atmosphere, you can enjoy their signature salmon sushi rolls and their highly regarded Tantan ramen with a sesame-flavoured, spicy broth.

Time Out tip: The perfect spot for quality late-night eats. Aim for the outside seating; comfy cushions, bright lanterns, and bustling city vibes.

Address: 8459 Kalayaan Avenue, Corner Don Pedro Street, Barangay Poblacion
Opening hours: Mon-Fri 1pm-2am; Sat & Sun 2pm-5am
Expect to pay: Around ₱400-500 for tempura or rice bowls.

What is it? As one of Manila's newest Japanese restaurants (open since late 2023), EDOYA's well-lit wooden interior, complete with a traditional Torii gate almost touching the ceiling, gives off a bright, welcoming feel.

Why we love it: Embracing the popularity of all things Japanese, EDOYA offers a selection of complimentary kimonos to wear while dining at the restaurant, as well as a cafe specialising in matcha, perfect for drinks and desserts.

But beyond the cool vibes, there are many delectable dishes. Covering the full array of appetisers, sushi and sashimi rolls, and ample mains, there's no shortage of choice. 

Time Out tip: EDOYA's shrimp tempura is exceptional - light and crispy on the outside, with firm, high-quality shrimp on the inside.

Address: 2277 Chino Roces Avenue (Little Tokyo), Legazpi Village, Makati
Opening hours: Mon-Thu 11am-3.30pm & 4.30pm-midnight; Fri-Sun 11am-midnight
Expect to pay: Around ₱400-500 for individual dishes.

What is it? With numerous Japanese restaurants in Manila focusing on tempura dishes, INOSHO's sights are set firmly on traditional ramen. 

Why we love it: With an upmarket ambience - warm lighting, jet-black tables, high ceilings, and a separate, well-stocked intimate bar area - INOSHO delivers the highest quality ramen in Manila.

Craftsmanship is not a word to be used lightly in cuisine, but the broth alone is worthy of the tag. The Tonkotsu-Gyokai broth blends pork bones and seafood, creating a distinct flavour with depth. Pork broth, dried bonito flakes, and baby sardines (among other ingredients) are combined with a 12-hour slow-cooked braised pork belly to deliver a truly special dish.

Time Out tip: Don’t be hasty in adding toppings, savour the flavour of the ramen. 

Address: 129 Bautista St. corner Tordesillas St., Salcedo Village
Opening hours: Sun-Thu 11am-11pm; Fri-Sat 11am-midnight
Expect to pay: Around ₱450-600 for ramen dishes.