Craving for some sashimi, sushi, or ramen lately? These BGC restaurants could satisfy you.
For a city as big and culture-rich as Bonifacio Global City or BGC, there’s bound to be a diverse set of restaurants waiting to be discovered in every visit. And discover them we shall, as we Filipinos have taste buds that are not only inclined to local dishes but are also welcoming of different flavors from other countries.
Right now, the flavors that’s undeniably all the rage is Japanese food. From the rich soup of ramen to fresh California maki rolls, there’s just something about Japanese cuisine that Filipinos can’t get enough of. Lucky for us, getting a bowl of authentic ramen or sushi is now easier as a plethora of Japanese restaurants are within reach. As a matter of fact, there are new dining places in BGC just waiting for your visit! So if you’re in the area and have an appetite for sushi and sashimi, give these new Japanese restaurants in BGC a try and maybe you might find a new go-to place the next time you have cravings.
1. Soru Izakaya
Where:Burgos Circle, Bonifacio Global City, Taguig City
Operating hours:11:00 AM to 11:00 PM from Monday to Sunday
Price range:PhP45 to PhP990
Soru Izakaya BGC is the second branch of the restaurant, the first one being in Maginhawa, Quezon City.
Images: Jheann Garcia
Stepping inside Soru Izakaya is just like walking into an artsy pub: the walls are full of visually appealing works inspired by Japanese culture. Let your eyes sweep the place and you’ll see geisha art in one spot and a koi mural in another. But these murals are only secondary; Soru’s best trademark is still their creative takes on Japanese food.
Just like the colorful art-filled walls, the food in Soru Izakaya is fun and vibrant. The sushi artists are well-trained and create not just tasty meals but also add oomph in the presentation of the dishes, making diners think twice about eating them and ruining the design. One of the prettiest sushis among the menu is the avocado maki (PhP480), which is plated with vividly colored mayo on the side. Although every piece of Sory Izakaya’s food seems like it should be exhibited in a museum, its rightful place is still in your stomach.
Wagyu (Japanese beef) has always been associated with fine dining given its expensive price and flavor. Its popularity among foodies is rooted from its one-of-a-kind taste that is attributed to the laborious process of cultivating the beef. What others might not know is that there are different kinds of wagyu beef, and one of them is the Miyazaki Wagyu or Miyazakigyu. The beef hails from prefecture in Kyushu, which is considered as the leading producer of high quality beef in Japan—arguably better than the Kobe beef from Hyogo.
Now, you don’t have to travel all the way to Japan just to get your hands on this premium beef, because you can get them at Miyazaki Gyu in BGC. The joint not only showcases luxurious interiors but also the beef itself on their display freezer for patrons to see. The beef can be cooked in many ways, from the classic rib-eye to sushi. Just a little heads up before you go: prepare your wallet, because wagyu is expensive.
3. Mendokoro Ramenba
Where:Icon Plaza, 26th Street, Bonifacio Global City, Taguig City
Operating hours:Open daily, 11:00 AM to 12:00 AM
Price range:PhP90 to PhP500
Mendokoro Ramenba is arguably one of the best ramen places in the metro.
If the name faintly rings a bell, it might be because Mendokoro Ramenba was the setting of the infamous “paparazzi incident” of actress Ellen Adarna. Although the Salcedo Village branch is the site of the incident, the new BGC branch also carries some of Mendokoro’s appetizing array of ramen.
Some of the most suggested picks are Shoyu (Soy Sauce ramen) for those who are looking for noodles and Hiyashi Chuka (ramen salad or cold ramen) for something light on the side. The Chashu (braised pork ramen) also deserves attention for breaking free from the traditional chashu; Mendokoro’s version is marinated and cooked longer, thus giving out a smokier taste. The restaurant can only seat 21 people at a time and the queues can be long, so pack some patience. After all, you know what they say: good things come to those who wait.
Where:Ground Floor, W City Center, 30th Street Corner 7th Avenue, Bonifacio Global City, Taguig City
Operating hours:Opens daily, 8:00 AM to 10:00 PM
Price range:PhP90 To PhP520
Nomi Matcha is managed by three Japanese businessmen.
Images: Nomi Facebook Page
The matcha trend took off a few years ago, and we saw matcha or powdered green tea leaves infused in a variety of food and drinks, from lattes to cakes to KitKats. As of 2018, there’s no sign of the craze slowing down. For matcha lovers in BGC, there’s a new haven for you: Nomi Matcha. This cafe is not your average matcha-themed hub, as its owners make sure that the matcha they serve is legit, which means they only use those coming from Kyoto.
The goodness of matcha can be tasted in drinks like Simply Matcha (PhP120), which can be consumed either hot or cold. Something to bury your sweet tooth into are the various goodies included in the Give Me Everything tray (PhP520), which includes Matcha Churros (PhP130), Legendary Greenies (PhP90), and Tiramisu Dream (PhP180). While you’re waiting for your order, you can marvel at the witty wall accents or maybe take a picture with the pastel-colored interiors as your background.
Where:Ground Floor, One Bonifacio High, 28th Street Corner 5th Avenue, Bonifacio Global City, Taguig City
Operating hours:Tuesday to Sunday, 6:00 PM to 12:00 AM
Price range:PhP175 to PhP2,250
This is Chino’s first branch in Philippines.
Images: Chino MNL Facebook Page
Don’t let the name fool you. Although CHINO might sound like it’s your typical Chinese restaurant, it’s everything but. Compared to everything on the list, this is the only one that doesn’t serve typical sushi dishes. As a matter of fact, this humble-looking resto offers Mexican-Japanese fusion dishes. They use fresh Japanese ingredients and cooking techniques and incorporate it with Mexican recipes. Some examples of what to expect on the menu are Wagyu beef taco (PhP285), Blue Corn Chips (PhP175), and Chicken & Egg Tostada (PhP245).
For those who want to some alcohol in their system after a stressful week, say no more. Whether you’re thirsty for some tequila or cerveza (Spanish beer), the restaurant’s various selections got you covered.
6. Tsuta
Where:C3, Bonifacio High Street Central, 7th Avenue, Bonifacio Global City, Taguig City
Operating hours:Open daily, 11:30 AM to 10:00 PM
Price range:PhP100 to PhP670
Tsuta gained its Michelin star back in 2015
Images: Tsuta Philippines Facebook Page
Here’s a reason why Tsuta is worth a visit: it’s the first-ever ramen restaurant to receive a Michelin star. Why is it a big deal? Michelin stars are only awarded to restaurants that exhibit the finest dining quality and experience. The title is so heavily desired by chefs and restaurant owners all over the world as having these stars is a symbol of excellence.
The star is originally awarded to Tsuta’s Japan branch, and you can see and taste for yourself if the Philippine branch is as outstanding as its predecessor. A few of the items on the menu that you can try are the three various types of ramen, namely Shoyu (Soy-based), Miso, and Shio (Salt-based). Besides being rich in flavors, the rich broth of these ramen is perfect if you’re looking for something to keep you hot on a rainy day.
These new dining places will surely make you go “Arigato!” Which of these new Japanese restaurants in BGC Makati are you going to try first? Tell us in the comments section below!
Prices may change without notice.
About Denisse Shawntel Tan
Denisse Tan is currently a work in progress: she’s an aspiring writer, artist, and fashion designer! She’s trying to figure out how to manage her time in achieving all of her goals while also taking in life as humanly possible. Aside from art, she’s a big fan of the color pink, disco music, Bratz dolls, and Genshin Impact. By age 35, she plans to travel to New York City 🗽.
Disclaimer: All articles in the Consumers Magazine of Yoorekka are
for general information and entertainment purposes only. Although
careful research has been made in writing them, Yoorekka does not
make any warranty about the completeness and accuracy of all
information presented in our articles. Our content is not intended
to be used in place of legal, medical, or any professional advice.