This is eat: Japanese Izakaya tradition arrives in BGC

MANILA, Philippines - The izakaya, a drinking and eating establishment which originated in Japan, has traveled to the Bonifacio Global City (BGC) to give the foodies an exciting place to spoil their love to the perennial favorite, Japanese food.

Aimed to cater to tired, hungry locals and indulge those who are looking to unwind with co-workers before calling it a day, the new Watami Grill and Sushi Bar boasts of its roll-up your-sleeves kind of chill atmosphere, coupled with cozy wooden tables and chairs, where guests eat, drink, laugh and eat some more while over cold beer or sake.

The ubiquitous Japanese concept, is much less common elsewhere around the globe. In the Philippines, Watami Grill and Sushi Bar is the first in the area, making it an exciting food concept to try especially if you are a fan of the skewers more known here in the Philippines as “tusok-tusok.”

Every izakaya menu is different around the world, but most of them have the popular items such as the the grilled skewers.

As juicy and tasty as they are, the fun part is that their prices won’t break your bank so all you have to do is enjoy and savor the flavors without worrying about how much would it cost you.

Prices for its skewers range from P40 to P145 so guests may order different varieties and share with friends. Items to try are the Bacon Asparagus, Baby Octopus, Pork and Enoki, Roasted Beef and Spring Onion Roll and Bacon Quail Egg. If you have no idea where to start, order a platter of assorted skewers instead for less than P300.

Japanese skewers

The Japanese gastropub also serves the staple Japanese dishes such as rice bowls and sushi rolls - California Maki, Spicy Salmon Tempura, Special Assorted Irodori Sushi and Assorted Salmon Sushi and Sashimi.

Spicy salmon tempura

If you are looking for a light meal before starting the fun night,  order their famous Watami salad, a refreshing bowl of mixed greens, tomatoes, grilled teriyaki chicken, fresh shrimp and crispy wonton chips topped with a special paste tuna dressing.

Watami salad

 To go with all these delicious food is a selection of alcoholic beverages like beer, wine, shots, cocktails and Japanese liquor aside from the staple non-alcoholic drinks like sodas, coffee and iced tea. 

Nadeshiko and samurai rock

So, if you are tired of the usual sizzling sisig and lechon kawali, head out to Watami Grill and Sushi Bar in Uptown Mall, BGC starting May 12 for a fun-filled night. No need to worry about anything except to remember the gastropub’s protocol: Have fun and relax!