Ikoka Yakitori in BGC: Michelin-Awarded Japanese Grilling Arrives in Metro Manila
The aroma of charcoal-grilled skewers now fills Bonifacio Global City with the arrival of Ikoka Yakitori, which hosted the grand opening of their first branch in the Philippines on September 2.
Known in Osaka in Japan for its mastery of yakitori grilled over kishu binchōtan charcoal and a signature sauce perfected over years, Ikoka brings an authentic slice of Osaka’s dining culture straight to Metro Manila.
With a reputation built on precise technique, carefully sourced ingredients, and a dedication to flavor, Ikoka has consistently impressed Japanese diners and earned international recognition—including being selected for the Michelin Bib Gourmand from 2022 to 2024.
Ikoka Yakitori is the creation of Chef Masayuki Hara, who also have sister restaurants in Osaka such as Sumibi Yakitori Torishō and Ikoka Nishitenma.
IMAGE from Ikoka Yakitori
At Ikoka Yakitori, every skewer is meticulously prepared: chicken is uniformly cut, skewered with care, and grilled slowly over binchōtan charcoal resulting to a crispy, smoky skin and juicy, flavorful yakitori—enhanced by house-made sauces tailored to each cut.
Diners can expect thesuch as Negima (chicken and leek skewers), Tsukune with cheese, and crispy tebasaki wings, priced around Php 120 to Php 170 per stick.
IMAGE from Ikoka Yakitori
Beyond yakitori, the restaurant offers a well-rounded menu of Japanese comfort dishes.
Highlights include Momo no Karaage (Php 310) which is a juicy and marinated chicken thigh pieces that are deep-fried to a golden crisp.
IMAGE from Ikoka Yakitori
Seiro Gohan (Php 390), a Japanese steamed rice dish served in a wooden seiro (bamboo steamer box), topped with seasoned ground meat (chicken or pork) and thinly sliced egg crepe strips (kinshi tamago).
IMAGE from Ikoka Yakitori
Diners may also try their Shogayaki Teishoku (Php 400), a Japanese set meal featuring thinly sliced pork sautéed with onions in a savory-sweet ginger sauce. The pork is served with fresh lettuce, tomato, and a dollop of mayonnaise, accompanied by steamed rice, pickles, and miso soup.
IMAGE from Ikoka Yakitori
The restaurant features a 65-seat main floor along with two private VIP rooms, making it suitable for everything from casual nights out to business dinners and intimate gatherings.
With its refined yet welcoming atmosphere, Ikoka Yakitori captures the spirit of a modern Japanese izakaya while delivering the quality of a fine dining restaurant.
