Iai in BGC: Where Premium, Seasonal Sushi Omakase Can Be Had
Inspired by the Japanese martial art of iaido, which focuses on precision and mindfulness, Iai is chef Bruce Ricketts and Jae Pickrell’s latest venture in the F&B industry and is all about giving an artistic, spontaneous dining experience.
IMAGE from Iai
The restaurant’s interior is thoughtfully designed by Pickrell and exudes a warm and inviting ambiance. It drew inspiration from brutalism and wabi-sabi aesthetics and has Japanese- and Filipino-inspired elements such as walls made from dehydrated and painted banana tree trunks and pendant lamps resembling contemporary Japanese lanterns.
Here, omakase—which means I leave it up to you in Japanese—takes center stage, with unique tasting menus that change frequently based on seasonal ingredients from Basilan and Japan and Chef Bruce’s inspired approach to cooking.
For a lighter yet delicious experience, try the Kappo Omakase! This five-course meal captures the charm of kappo cuisine by striking a balance between the elegance of kaiseki and the laid-back vibe of an izakaya. Perfect for intimate seating in the main dining area (with occasional limited seating at the chef’s counter), this omakase is priced at Php 4,500 per person. Enjoy an hour and a half of delicious flavors and creativity!
The Sushi Omakase is designed for those who want a full journey through Japanese flavors. It begins with six to eight otsumami (seasonal appetizers), followed by five to seven pieces of their expertly prepared nigiri, a meat course, and dessert. This option, available at the chef’s counter or in the private dining room, is an engaging experience that lets you interact directly with Chef Bruce himself. For Php 8,900 per person, this 2 to 2.5-hour experience is one you won’t forget!
IMAGE from Iai
If you’re looking to go all out, the Premium Omakase is an indulgent adventure. This exclusive menu features 16 to 18 courses, with an extended nigiri selection that’s only available by special request and starts at Php 13,500 per person. It’s the perfect way to celebrate a special occasion or treat yourself to a top-tier experience.
At Iai, reservations are essential and can be made at iaimanila.com/reservations, with a 50% deposit required per guest. The chef’s counter seats up to 10 for sushi and premium omakase, while two tables in the main dining area accommodate groups of four and six. There’s even a private dining room for up to nine guests, reserved exclusively for sushi and premium omakase.
IMAGE from Iai
This sushi kappo restaurant is also pet-friendly for small pets who follow a few friendly guidelines, and you can bring your favorite wine with a Php 2,000 corkage fee (no corkage for cakes!).
Get ready for an unforgettable dining experience that celebrates the finer side of Japanese cuisine.
