New Restaurant: Japanese Peruvian Food Opens In Pobs

Poblacion is the place to be as more and more dine-worthy destinations mushroom in the area. Tuck away with your gang and get set for a night of surefire fun and luscious food. Nestled in the Makati neighborhood, downtown restaurant Japonesa definitely rings a bell among busy locals and lounging tourists. A must-try fusion of Japanese and Peruvian flavors, the familiar yet fresh concoction of the two cuisines leaves every last bite a bliss to remember. With a range of Asian and South American ingredients, the menu is injected with traditional and timeless Japanese dishes and usual delights such as maki, sushi, yakitori, and sashimi. Spices and mixes with sweet and sour notes from the Peruvian palate also add a new twist to the taste of Japonesa’s meals.  

Conceptualized by Notorious Concepts CEO James Thomas and Chef Luis Higa, Japonesa was established by a group of emerging restaurateurs and officially opened in 2022. Notorious Concepts, which houses the same culinary creatives who started the restaurants Alamat, West 32, and Notorious HQ, is home to innovative food ideas. Adjoining the Japanese-Peruvian culture is made possible by master chef Luis, whose culinary marksmanship was cultivated in the best of both Japan and Peru. A Nippon national who has lived most of his life in the South American soil, Luis masterminded the bespoke menu of the pub. From sake and Japanese spirits to wines, beers, whiskeys, and classic and signature cocktails, their bustling selection of beverages—both alcoholic and non-alcoholic—brings thrill to the table.

With inviting interiors that welcome both families and barkadas, Japonesa—which translates to “Japanese woman”—flaunts a feminine vibe inside its 180-square meter space. The venue is packed with geometric patterns and edgy lines that elevate action and activity all against an ambient atmosphere. Its design evokes a feeling of excitement and the diagonal streaks a sense of movement. The interior, which matches the supposed balance between calm and cultured yet cool and casual, is a sleek touch of Japanese tradition and sophistication that adds more appeal to the entire encounter. From dishes to drinks that combine authentic components from Japan and Peru, this 80-plus-seater of a place is a celebration hub for your clique—be it for a luncheon blowout or an evening wine-and-dine.

Choose from a select range of seafood choices from salmon, tuna, shrimp, tasmanian ocean trout, sea urchin, and saltwater eel to the exquisite yellowtail. Scrumptious options such as crab meat, chicken thigh, beef tongue, tenderloin, dijon, and other delights are also available. Topped with savory sauces such as yuzu, chimichurri, classic citrus, green garlic, gremolata, spicy aioli, and salsa, Japonesa meals are a fine match to their refreshments and cocktail roster.

Located at 5658 Don Pedro Street, Corner Jacobo, Poblacion, this Japanese-Peruvian restaurant is worth the ride. Swing by this gem from Mondays through Thursdays and on Sundays at 11 A.M. to 1 A.M. and on Fridays and Saturdays at 11 A.M. to 3 A.M. for good food, fresh drinks, and a night doused with satisfaction.