Recognized as the Philippines’ most luxurious Japanese hotel, Hotel Okura Manila continues to set the standard for authentic Japanese cuisine with its renowned restaurant, Yawaragi. Known for its extensive menu of Japanese favorites, Yawaragi now highlights the centuries-old art of grilling, or “yaki,” through its newly launched Grill Menu.
Anchored on the twin highlights of Kushiyaki and Ishiyaki, the menu offers diners two distinct experiences, alongside well-loved staples such as agemono, donburi, and ramen.
Leading the culinary vision is Executive Chef Jerrymie Tamayo, who reimagines classic Japanese street fare to resonate with Filipino taste—balancing authenticity with familiar, comforting flavors. Complementing him is Specialty Chef Ikuma Sato, whose refined ramen creations, defined by rich broths and layered depth, provide a perfect counterpoint to the smoky notes of the grill.
Kushiyaki features skewered meat and seafood grilled over binchotan, a prized Japanese white charcoal known for its clean, intense heat that enhances flavor without overpowering it. Prepared fresh upon order, each skewer is served straight from the grill, delivering a satisfying interplay of tenderness and char. Highlights include classic yakitori—chicken thigh fillet seasoned with sea salt or glazed in a sweet-savory soy sauce.
Ishiyaki offers an interactive twist: diners cook sashimi-grade cuts on heated volcanic stone, renowned for its exceptional heat retention, allowing guests to prepare the meat or seafood exactly to their liking. Options include premium selections such as Norwegian salmon.
Each set is served with miso soup and Japanese rice, accompanied by seasonings and sauces including matcha salt, Maldon salt, wasabi, ponzu, peppercorn, and steak sauce. Guests may also enjoy a glass of juice or a bottle of Japanese beer with a minimum order of ₱1,400++. Chef Tamayo recommends pairing the meal with a chilled beer to balance the rich, charred flavors from the grill.
The Yawaragi Grill Menu is available for lunch on Mondays and Tuesdays, and for dinner from Sunday to Thursday at Newport World Resorts.