Aozora Japanese Restaurant in Tagaytay: Pioneer of Authentic Japanese Cuisine in the City
Known for being the first to offer authentic Japanese cuisine in Tagaytay City, Aozora Japanese Restaurant, located along the Tagaytay-Calamba Road, first opened its doors in 2015 as Aozora Japanese Cafe + Bistro. Over the years, it has grown into a beloved culinary destination, expanding to seven (7) branches across Tagaytay.
Aozora, meaning blue sky inspired by the enchanting skies of Tagaytay, continues to captivate locals and tourists alike with its dedication to offering a genuine Japanese dining experience, blending traditional flavors with the fresh ingredients and unique atmosphere that Tagaytay is known for.
IMAGE from Aozora Japanese Restaurant
IMAGE from Aozora Japanese Restaurant
The restaurant serves a variety of Japanese dishes that are carefully crafted by Chef Seiji Kamura, Aozora’s head chef. Their menu includes sushi and sashimi, as well as various rice meals, grilled offerings, and Japanese alcoholic beverages including sake and beers.
If you want to start off with Japanese staples, you may want to try their Gyu Don, a well-loved dish comprised of succulent U.S. beef simmered in a mildly sweet sauce, onion, and egg, on a bed of rice.
Beef Gyudon / IMAGE from Aozora Japanese Restaurant
Another must-try at Aozora is the Chicken Karaage, served with a side of crispy potato chips. This succulent dish embodies everything you love about fried chicken, elevated with a distinctly Japanese twist that enhances its flavor and texture.
It’s also worth mentioning that this dish is especially popular with kids, making Aozora an ideal dining destination for families!
Chicken Karaage / IMAGE from Aozora Japanese Restaurant
If you are looking for a filling meal that will fuel you for the day ahead, consider sampling their Bento Boxes. This dish, complete with rice, salad, and your main dish, will surely be a filling meal.
Bento Box / IMAGE from Aozora Japanese Restaurant
A standout dish at Aozora is the Aozora Ramen, a creative fusion of Japanese ramen and Tagaytay’s iconic Bulalo. This unique dish marries the rich, comforting flavors of Bulalo with the traditional techniques of Japanese ramen, offering a delightful blend that appeals to both Japanese cuisine enthusiasts and those who love Filipino flavors.
Aozora Ramen / IMAGE from Aozora Japanese Restaurant
If you are in Tagaytay and craving Japanese food, you can never go wrong with Aozora Japanese Restaurant! Visit them at any of their branches in Tagaytay, and you’ll surely have a great time.
Ayala Malls Serin Branch / IMAGE from Aozora Japanese Restaurant
How to get here
- Aozora Japanese Restaurant is located along the Tagaytay-Calamba Rd., approximately 8 minutes away from Olivarez Plaza, Emilio Aguinaldo Highway.
- By car: From Olivarez Plaza, head south towards the Tagaytay Rotonda and continue onto the Tagaytay-Calamba Road. Along the way, you’ll pass by Discovery Country Suites Tagaytay, Carlos Pizza, and Sola Garden Villas. Aozora Japanese Restaurant is on the right side of the road, adjacent to the Tagaytay Southridge Estates.
A version of this appeared in Philippine Primer Japanese and English September 2017 and December 2019 issues.
Images courtesy of Aozora Japanese Restaurant
