Kenshin Japanese Izakaya Restaurant in Makati: Serving Okonomiyaki, Shochu, Sake, and More

Updated as of December 27, 2023

Chef Masa Arafuka has put up an izakaya or a gastro-pub that’s accessible to more people in Makati and is probably the closest thing to an authentic Japanese izakaya experience this side of Makati: Kenshin Japanese Izakaya Restaurant.

Nestled within the vibrant culinary landscape of Makati, Kenshin Japanese Izakaya beckons food enthusiasts on a delightful journey through the diverse and delectable world of Japanese cuisine.

IMAGE from Kenshin Japanese Izakaya

With the recent inauguration of its 9th store in the food court of Cash & Carry in September 2023, Kenshin has become a beloved retreat for both Japanese expats and discerning Filipinos seeking an affordable yet authentic dining experience.

Kenshin Japanese Izakaya, Cash & Carry Branch / IMAGE from Philippine Primer

The food from Kenshin is as Japanese as it gets, especially the set meals with your choice of ramen with sides of either gyoza, karaage, curry rice, or sushi. Simply affordable and fulfilling!

Gyoza / IMAGE from Kenshin Japanese Izakaya

Yamamori Karaage / IMAGE from Kenshin Japanese Izakaya

One of the unique gastronomic experiences at Kenshin is their Okonomiyaki (Php 299), where you get on your table a stove, okonomiyaki pan, and ingredients to make it for yourself—your own way. The pan produces 16 big pieces of okonomiyaki, good for sharing the experience with friends and showing off your cooking skills.

Make your own Okonomiyaki / IMAGE from Philippine Primer

Meanwhile, their Kenshin Buta Shogayaki also leaves an impression on meat lovers as the dish is made of grilled pork that’s been marinated in ginger sauce and served with plenty of vegetables, balancing the tempting dish.

Kenshin Buta Shogayaki  / IMAGE from Kenshin Japanese Izakaya

But that’s not the crazy part—the craziness starts when you look through their dessert and drinks menu. Kenshin serves your usual fanfare of izakaya drinks: shochu, umeshu (plum wine), beer, whisky, and, of course, sake. If you haven’t heard of a sake cocktail, it’s probably because it’s hardly done elsewhere but here.

Kenshin Japanese Izakaya, Makati Central Square / IMAGE from Philippine Primer

From the rich history of its six locations in Manila, including Makati Central Square (MCS), The Beacon, and The Linear Makati — Kenshin invites you to savor the essence of Japan in every bite.

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