Best Japanese Restaurants in Manila 2025: Ramen, Omakase, and Sushi Picks
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About This Guide
This guide is based on current procedures and requirements. For the most accurate and up-to-date information, always refer to official sources
Looking for the best Japanese eats in Manila this 2025? Shortlist created: ramen spots for comfort, omakase for special nights, and sushi places for everyday cravings - with what to order, where to go, and quick booking tips.
Quick picks at a glance
- Best ramen (crowd favorite): Ramen Nagi - rich tonkotsu bowls, various "king" flavors. (PHP 350–600)
- Best tonkotsu chain: Ippudo - creamy broth, modern take. (PHP 400–700)
- Best Hokkaido-style ramen: Santouka - mild, balanced shio ramen. (PHP 350–500)
- Best for late-night bowls: local ramen houses around Makati/BGC - check OpenRice for real-time reviews.
- Best omakase (splurge): Nobu Manila - refined tasting menus and premium seafood. (PHP 3,000+)
- Best casual sushi / kaiten (affordable): conveyor belt or sushi bars across malls - great for quick sushi runs.
How to choose the right Japanese spot
- Decide purpose: quick ramen, celebration omakase, or casual sushi.
- Check budget: ramen PHP 300–700; mid-range dinner PHP 800–1,800; omakase PHP 3,000+.
- Location matters: Makati, BGC (Taguig), Mall of Asia (Pasay), and major SM/Greenbelt malls host the most trusted names.
- Read recent reviews on OpenRice or Spot.ph - Manila openings can change fast.
Top picks - what to order and why
Ramen (comfort & variety)
- Ramen Nagi - Try the Original King (tonkotsu) or Black King variants for rich, fatty broth and customizable toppings.
- Ippudo - Go for Akamaru or Shiromaru for balanced tonkotsu and perfectly textured noodles.
- Santouka - Order the Shio Ramen for a cleaner, Hokkaido-style finish if you prefer lighter salt-based broth.
Why these? They're widely available across Manila malls, have consistent broths, and offer easy customizations.
Omakase (special nights)
- Nobu Manila (City of Dreams) - Book for a luxe omakase experience or tasting menu featuring premium seafood and signature dishes like Black Cod.
- Smaller chef's-table omakase: many Makati and BGC sushi bars offer limited-seat chef's omakase - check Booky or Instagram for the latest pop-ups.
Why these? Omakase is chef-driven and limited-seat - expect higher prices but curated seasonal seafood and a memorable evening.
Sushi & casual options
- Sushi counters and conveyor belts in malls - ideal for quick, budget-friendly sushi. Look for restaurants with steady turnover for freshness.
- Mid-range sushi bars - great for sashimi platters and shared sets (PHP 800–1,800).
Booking & dining tips
- Reservations: For omakase and weekend ramen rush, book 3–7 days ahead. Use Booky or call the restaurant directly.
- Peak times: Weekends and weekday dinners 7–9 PM. For quieter service, aim for weekday lunch.
- Parking & transport: Malls have secure parking; in BGC/Makati, consider Grab for easier drop-offs.
- Dietary notes: Many places can adjust spice and toppings; ask about broths if you have allergies.
- Promotions: Check Booky and restaurant Instagram pages for weekday promos or sets.
Quick checklist before you go
- Decide ramen / omakase / sushi
- Set your budget (PHP)
- Check reviews (OpenRice, Spot.ph)
- Reserve (Booky / phone / IG)
- Confirm parking or Grab route
- Note any dietary restrictions
Enjoy your Japanese food hunt in Manila - whether it's a slurpable bowl of tonkotsu or a special omakase night, Manila's 2025 scene has reliable classics and new chef pop-ups. Check the sources for live reviews and availability.
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