Toyama Eatery in Marikina: Japanese Soul Cooking in a Cozy Neighborhood Setting
Japanese comfort food finds a welcoming home in Marikina at Toyama Eatery, a neighborhood restaurant at La Arcada Building along Gil Fernando Avenue.
Describing itself as a neighborhood eatery inspired by Japan and serving “Japanese Soul Cooking,” the restaurant focuses on familiar Japanese flavors prepared with care and an approachable, easygoing spirit.
IMAGE from Toyama Eatery’s Instagram account
Behind its straightforward concept is an emphasis on thoughtful cooking. Toyama Eatery shares that Japanese cuisine requires patience and discipline, reflecting an approach centered on honest and precise preparation rather than overly elaborate presentation. Its idea of hospitality is just as simple: guests should leave in a better mood than when they arrived.
Among the dishes worth trying is the Hito Fillet, a pan-roasted catfish fillet glazed with tare and served with pickled onions and Japanese rice. Interestingly, Toyama describes the dish as an “accidental” creation that took time to perfect before becoming part of its menu.
Hito Fillet (Php 399) / IMAGE from Toyama Eatery’s Instagram account
For something heartier, the Katsu Curry pairs crispy pork katsu with rich Japanese curry, potatoes, carrots, and Japanese rice. Meanwhile, the Yakisoba brings together cabbage with a choice of pork or ebi, tossed in a distinctive sweet-savory sauce inspired by Worcestershire sauce.
Katsu Curry (Php 475) / IMAGE from Toyama Eatery’s Instagram account
Yakisoba (Php 275) / IMAGE from Toyama Eatery’s Instagram account
With comforting Japanese dishes and an unpretentious neighborhood atmosphere, Toyama Eatery offers Marikina diners a casual spot for satisfying Japanese meals. It is open Tuesday to Thursday and Sunday from 11:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m., and Friday to Saturday from 11:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m.
