I have a confession.
My love of Japanese food came along with my love for a boy.
Before I met Nino, my idea of Japanese food was Chicken Teriyaki and California Rolls.
Through our love affair, I have also fallen in love with his favorite, Japanese Cuisine as well.
Zensai
Truth be told, when it comes to eating out as a family, we usually choose one of four cuisines. Japanese. Chinese. Filipino. Or Thai. It is on a rare occasion when we choose to eat out Italian food, simply because I do not want to be disappointed and have that feeling like I could have made something better at home.
Ok, so of the four cuisines that we do eat out of the house, I’d say Japanese is the family favorite. In fact, we took a family vote as I was writing this post.
I asked everyone, “If we eat out what do you want to eat?”
Sashimi
Unanimous.
Japanese Food.
All the way.
So where does one go when authentic Japanese food is on the docket?
Aburi Goten: Five Special Kinds of Lightly Grilled Sushi
Inagiku.
Inagiku began as a humble tempura restaurant in Asakusa, Japan 150 years ago. Since their opening all those years ago, Inagiku has grown into a world renowned brand that embodies the quality and rich flavors which garner the AUTHENTIC Japanese label reserved only for restaurants which cater to the pickiest and most discerning palates.
Mango Drago Maki
While Makati Shangrila can boast a great many honors, awards, and services that distinguish them amongst all of the hotels and restaurants here in Manila, Inagiku is one of the many feathers in their cap.
Spicy Salmon Maki
The combined service of Makati Shangrila and the dedication of delivering authentic and innovative Japanese Cusinine sets Inagiku apart from all other restaurants in the Metro and offers traditional fine dining guaranteeing culinary experiences that only an authentic Japanese Chef can provide.
Chef Hikawa and Manager Ishikawa
Executive Chef Wataru Hikawa has been providing families, dignitaries, celebrities and Manila’s elite with authentic Japanese experiences since Inagiku opened their doors in Makati Shangrila 18 years ago.
Together, with Manager Yoshio Ishikawa, they have surpassed diners’ expectations in service and food which only means one thing: Inagiku diners continue to come back for dishes and superior experiences that create memories for the whole family.
These memories and experiences can transport Inagiku guests to a time and place where Japanese Cuisine is not just enjoyed as sustenance, but celebrated as an event, a milestone, a destination, and even a season.
For their recent celebration earlier this month, I was invited to taste some of the new dishes that Chef Hikawa and Manager Ishikawa have collaborated on to remind us of the flavors of Autumn.
Gindara Misoyaki
As we began our meal, we were introduced to Manager Ishikawa, who has made Inagiku his home since 2000. He reminded us that for a Japanese restaurant to be considered authentic, it has to have three main facets.
Papaya Oysters: Grilled Oysters served in a Papaya Boat
- Culinary knowledge which can only come from the home country of Japan.
- Years of experience
- And of course, a Japanese Chef
Manager Ishikawa prepares our Udon Suki Nabe
Inagiku has all three of these things plus the experience of Manager Ishikawa serving in five star hotels since 1998.
Ebi Tempura served with Matcha Powder
But what is the real secret in being the “go to ” place for Japanese FINE Dining here in Manila?
Tofu Tosa Age: Deep Fried Tofu Wrapped in Bonito Flakes
Ishikawa puts it simply.
It is all about TRUST and DEPENDABILITY.
Usuyaki Steak: Thinly Sliced Beef with Mushrooms and Garlic
“Inagiku’s secret is our patron’s trust. Despite the competitors left and right, our guests always come back. Inagiku always meets or even exceeds their expectations.”
I thought the same, as I was leaving the restaurant that day. My only regret was not being able to share my meal with the man I love on that particular day.
After all, it is through my love for him, that I developed my love for Japanese Cuisine.
Mochi Ice Cream with Wagashi
www.shangri-la.com/manila/makatishangrila/dining/restaurants/inagiku/
www.instagram.com/makatishangrila
Inagiku is located at the Mezzanine level of Makati Shangri-La, Manila and is open for lunch at 11:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. and dinner at 6:30 p.m. to 10:30 p.m.
For inquiries and reservations, guests may call Restaurant Reservations at (63 2) 814 2580.
Email: rric.slm@shangri-la.com.
You may also book a table through : bit.ly/InagikuBookATable
