August 20, 2024

Irasshaimase! 12 of the Best Japanese Restaurants in BGC

By: Melecio Martin G. Arranz IV

Filipinos have long been enamored with Japanese culture, and it’s not hard to see why. From the art of anime to the meticulous craft of sushi, there’s much to love about the culture. A big part of this fascination is, of course, the cuisine.

You might have heard the welcoming cry of “Irasshaimase!” as you enter a Japanese restaurant—this phrase symbolizes the warm hospitality and culinary delights that await. And when it comes to the best concentration of Japanese restaurants in Metro Manila, nothing beats Bonifacio Global City (BGC). No wonder BGC is a prime destination for food enthusiasts. Check out BGC’s must-try Japanese restaurants! 

12 Japanese Restaurants in BGC to Try 

Whether you’re craving a steaming bowl of ramen, fresh sashimi, or a sizzling plate of teppanyaki, you’ll find it all here. Explore some of the best Japanese dining spots in BGC that you absolutely need to try.

1. Mendokoro Ramenba

• Address: Unit 0109, Ground Floor, MITSUKOSHI BGC, 8th Avenue corner 36th Street, Grand Central Park North, Bonifacio Global City 
• Website: https://nipponhasha.com/ 
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mendokoro_ramenba/?hl=en 
• Operating hours: 11 AM–10 PM (Mon to Fri), 10 AM–10 PM (Sat, Sun, and Holidays)
• Must-try: Signature Ramen Bowls, such as Shoyu Ramen, Tantanmen, and Shio Ramen

Located in MITSUKOSHI BGC, Mendokoro Ramenba is a cozy spot serving authentic Japanese ramen. Focusing on quality and traditional techniques, it offers rich and flavorful broths plus handmade noodles in a no-frills dining experience.

2. Mitsuyado Sei-men

• Address: Unit 38, Basement 1, MITSUKOSHI BGC, 8th Avenue corner 36th Street, Grand Central Park North, Bonifacio Global City 
• Website: https://mitsuyadoseimen.mugengroup.ph/ 
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mitsuyadoseimenph/?hl=en 
• Operating hours: 10 AM–10 PM (Mon to Sun)
• Must-try: Signature Ramen and Tsukemen Dishes

As one of the best Japanese restos in BGC, Mitsuyado Sei-Men stands out for its authentic Japanese ramen and tsukemen. It offers top-notch quality, warm hospitality, and a vibrant ambiance, redefining the ramen and tsukemen experience.

3. Fukudaya

• Address: Unit 7 The Plaza, Arya Residences, McKinley Parkway, Bonifacio Global City
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/fukudaya.ph/?hl=en 
• Operating hours: 11 AM–3 PM & 6 PM– 10 PM (Sun to Wed), 11 AM–10 PM (Thu to Sat) 
• Must-try: Sashimi Platter (Maguro, Tuna, Salmon), Fukudaya Roll, Simmered Pork Belly with Raddish, Coffee Jelly with Japanese Hakushu Whisky

Fukudaya offers an intimate ambiance and authentic Japanese flavors with modern culinary techniques. Skilled chefs prepare sushi, sashimi, hot pot, and innovative appetizers like the famous Sashimi Platter in an open kitchen.

4. Izakaya Sensu x Chotto Matte

• Address: Net Park Building, 28th Street corner 5th Avenue, Bonifacio Global City
• Website: https://www.raintreehospitality.net/izakayasensu 
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/izakayasensuph/?hl=en 
• Operating hours: 11 AM–10 PM (Mon to Sat), 12 PM–10 PM (Sun)
• Must-try: Sensu Roll (Tempura Asparagus and Spicy Tuna), Hirame ‘Sugata-Age’ (Deep-fried Flatfish Nuggets), Goma Chazuke (Sesame-marinated White Fish Rice Porridge), Kakubin Highball

Izakaya Sensu x Chotto Matte is one of the best Japanese restaurants in BGC, blending izakaya culture with innovative Japanese cuisine. It offers a shared-plate experience in a relaxed setting. Meanwhile, Chotto Matte serves artisanal sakes, cocktails, and the famous Kakubin Highball at the bar.

5. Kinugawa

• Address: B1 Level – Food Court, Mitsukoshi Mall, Bonifacio Global City 
• Operating hours (Mitsukoshi Mall): 11 AM–10 PM (Mon to Fri), 10 AM–10 PM (Sat, Sun, and Holidays)
• Must-try: Sushi Omakase, Kinugawa Roll, Assorted Sashimi Platter

Kinugawa is popular for its fine sushi and sashimi. With a chic, modern setting, it’s a top pick for sushi lovers and those craving upscale Japanese dining. Enjoy locally and internationally sourced seafood, along with a variety of traditional and creative sushi rolls, sashimi, and hot dishes. Kinugawa guarantees a culinary adventure through Japan’s flavors, ideal for food enthusiasts.

6. Maisen

• Address: Shangri-La at the Fort, 30th Street corner 5th Avenue, Bonifacio Global City 
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/maisenph/?hl=en 
• Operating hours: 11 AM–12 MN (Mon to Sun)
• Must-try: Shio Pork, Kurobuta Loin Set, Katsumabushi Set, Original Moscow Mule, Saketini

Maisen is one of Japan’s top tonkatsu chains, bringing unique flavors to our shores as early as 2016. It is known for its crispy and tender pork cutlets and a delectable menu that includes traditional tonkatsu alongside new dishes tailored for the local palate. The restaurant only uses high-quality ingredients and authentic Japanese cooking techniques to deliver an exceptional dining experience.

7. Miyazaki Gyu

• Address: One McKinley Place, Podium Level, 26th Street between 3rd & 4th Avenue, Bonifacio Global City 
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/miyazakigyuph/?hl=en 
• Operating hours: 11 AM–11 PM (Mon to Sun)
• Must-try: Miyazaki Wagyu Beef Sushi, Miyazaki Wagyu Steak (Rib-eye and Tenderloin), Shabu-shabu, and Omakase Dishes

Miyazaki Gyu is renowned for its exquisite Miyazaki Wagyu beef, with its cherry-red color, even fat distribution, velvety texture, and rich flavor profile. Showcasing Japan’s top-grade beef, Miyazaki Gyu offers a relaxed dining experience featuring sukiyaki, shabu-shabu, roast beef, and unique dishes highlighting premium wagyu.

8. Nadai Fujisoba

• Address: SM Aura Premier, 4th Floor Food Court Area, McKinley Parkway, Bonifacio Global City 
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nadaifujisobaph/?hl=en 
• Operating hours: 11 AM-2:30 PM & 5:30 PM-11 PM (Mon to Sun)
• Must-try: Zaru Soba, Tempura Soba, Kitsune Soba

Nadai Fujisoba serves authentic Japanese soba noodles. The restaurant offers a serene dining atmosphere reminiscent of Japanese soba houses. Committed to quality and authenticity, Nadai Fujisoba ensures a memorable dining experience through traditional soba-making techniques and genuine hospitality.

9. Ogawa Traditional Japanese Restaurant

• Address: The Fort Strip, 5th Avenue, Bonifacio Global City 
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ogawa.manila 
• Operating hours: 12 PM –10 PM (Mon to Sun)
• Must-try: Tori Paitan Ramen, Spicy Tan Tan Men, Gyoza, Chashu Don

Built by Chef Kiyoshi Ogawa, his eponymous restaurant is known for its elegant setting and attention to detail. Ogawa emphasizes fresh and quality ingredients. The restaurant caters to classic and contemporary tastes and lets you dine in one of its private rooms for a more distinct experience.

10. Teppan Okochi

• Address: Unit 7 Ground Floor, One Square Building, 31st Street, Bonifacio Global City
• Operating hours: 11:30 AM–10 PM (Mon to Sat), 11 AM–10 PM (Sun)
• Must-try: A5 Wagyu Beef, Special Teppan Course, Osaka Experience Course, Grilled Chicken Teriyaki, Seafood Platter, Okonomiyaki, Yakisoba, Sukiyaki

Teppan Okochi is a teppanyaki restaurant in Bonifacio Global City known for its prime-grade meat, fresh seafood, and excellent service. The dining experience at Teppan Okochi is a delightful combination of culinary precision and showmanship, offering guests a front-row seat to watch skilled chefs prepare their meals on a teppan grill.

11. Ramen Nagi

• Address: L223 2nd Level, One Bonifacio High Street Mall, 5th Avenue corner 28th Street, Bonifacio Global City 
• Website: http://www.ramennagi.com.ph/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ramennagimanila 
• Operating hours: 11 AM–9 PM (Mon to Sun)
• Must-try: Truffle King Ramen, Gyoza, Pork Katsu Roll, Curry Chicken Karaage

Its sleek ambiance makes it perfect for work lunches or leisurely dinners. Indulge in its signature Truffle King ramen, flavorful gyoza, crispy Pork Katsu Roll, and mouthwatering Curry Chicken Karaage. Whether you’re a ramen enthusiast or exploring Japanese cuisine, this branch promises a delightful dining experience in the heart of BGC.

12. Wagyu Studio

• Address: 26th Street, Bonifacio Global City 
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wagyustudio/ 
• Operating hours: 12 PM–2 PM & 6 PM–9 PM (Tue to Sun)
• Must-try: Wagyu Sashimi, Tableside Wagyu Cooking

Wagyu Studio merges casual elegance with culinary innovation, offering a unique dining experience centered around the finest wagyu beef. Enjoy perfectly sliced wagyu tenderloin as delicate sashimi and savor tender beef cooked tableside. Every bite at Wagyu Studio is a revelation in gourmet indulgence.

Satisfy Your Cravings with the Top Japanese Dining Spots in BGC

BGC’s dynamic Japanese dining scene is a journey into culinary artistry and cultural richness. Whether savoring sushi precision or enjoying teppanyaki grill vibes, each spot offers a unique experience enhancing urban lifestyles.

Experience this daily with Federal Land’s condominium in BGC. From stylish condos to vibrant neighborhoods near Mitsukoshi Mall’s top-tier dining and cozy coffee shops, our residences blend comfort and convenience.

Nearby, The Seasons Residences BGC epitomizes luxury urban living in BGC. Visit Federal Land’s website, one of the leading real estate developers in the Philippines, to explore your future home, where every day embraces Japan’s energy and flavors.