5 Reasons To Try Japonesa

It’s my first time trying a Japanese-Peruvian restaurant and my tastebuds would agree that there is nothing to hate about these dishes. Japonesa is the newest addition to the growing restaurants in the heart of Poblacion, Makati City. They officially open on April 2022 and in a short span, they have been making waves on social media and it’s easy to understand why.

Japonesa is the product of Notorious Concepts—the group that brought Alamat and West 32. The idea of putting up a Japanese-Peruvian restaurant was created right after the meeting with Head Chef Luis Higa and Notorious Concepts CEO James Thomas. Chef Luis is Japanese by blood but he lived most of his life in Peru which gave them the concept of putting up a Japanese-Peruvian restaurant. 

Japanese dishes are known for their bold and rich taste and healthy too. Peruvian dishes represent dishes that are colorful and oozing with so much flavor. Here are five reasons why Japonesa is a must-try for food lovers and everyone who’s looking for something new to try. 

Delectable Dishes
What happens when you have a chef of Japanese origin who grew up in Peru? The result is a mouthwatering treat that highlights the taste of both Japanese and Peruvian cuisine. From sushi to Yakitori, to tapas, to Lomo Saltado (stir-fry beef), Japonesa got you covered. Their menu is a combination of Japanese and Peruvian dishes with a modern spin on traditional spices and flavors that is sure to please everyone.

Majuro Tarte-tuna, avocado, sweet potato chips PHP500

Californication-crab claw meat, avocado, cucumber, black caviar, lemon zest PHP540

Bomba Camarones-crispy shrimp, spicy aioli PHP500

Pollo Mostaza-chicken thigh, creamy dijon -PHP550

Lengua Katsu-beef tongue katsu, creamy potatoes PHP950

Ambiance
Japonesa is located along Poblacion where several restaurants can be found. They offer alfresco and indoor dining. The interior combines a touch of Japanese which is both clean and modern. They have long tables for those dining in a group and also have smaller tables. It has wooden chairs and tables with a hint of Peruvian influence that can be seen in the geometric floor design. The lights on the bar counter give a warm and homey ambiance. The overall interior of Japonesa is a perfect example of the fusion of the old and the new.

Friendly Staff
While it’s true that I go back to restaurants that satisfy my cravings, I also consider the overall experience that I got from these establishments. The moment I step in at Japonesa, I was greeted by their staff, who assisted me from the time I order my menu until I finished my food. I liked how friendly and knowledgeable their staff are especially for someone like me who doesn’t know much about Japanese-Peruvian cuisines, having recommendations from their staff on what to try was a big help.

With Chef Luis Higa

Great Place to Unwind
Japonesa does not only serve deli pie dishes but is also a good place to relax and catch up with friends after a stressful week. No need to look for a nearby place to drink because Japonesa also serves cocktails and alcoholic drinks. They have an extensive selection of drinks from traditional cocktails and specialty drinks exclusively available at Japonesa.

Japanese Iced Tea-hibiscus, passion fruit, lime PHP180, Sakura Cocktail-gin, strawberry, hibiscus PHP400, Watermelon Hai Ball-Sake, watermelon, Elderflower PHP380

Value For Money 
The food served at Japonesa tastes really good and very filling too. It might look expensive but it’s really worth every penny. You get to enjoy what you paid for because of the quality of food, inviting ambiance, and good customer service. 

📍5658 Jacobo St. corner Don Pedro, Poblacion, Makati
⏰Mon-Thurs & Sun 11AM-1AM
Fri & Sat 11AM-3AM

Follow them on social media to know the latest promotions.

https://www.facebook.com/Japonesa-Poblacion
https://www.instagram.com/japonesapoblacion/