Sumptuous Sundays: Izakaya Kikufuji

Did you know that Chino Roces, Makati is known for authentic (as in authentic!) Japanese restaurants? This small row of Japanese restos right beside Plaza Fair/Makati Cinema Square called Little Tokyo is home to some of the longest- standing Japanese restaurants in the metro and one of them is Izakaya Kikufuji; it is perhaps the most popular in the area! Kikufuji, the name that it's more popularly known for, is also the go- to place for sushi lovers!

PRICE RANGE: Ala Carte Mains start at P280.00; Sushi starts at P50.00/piece; Sushi sets start at P1,000.00

Izakaya Kikufuji is a dojo- inspired restaurant; a bit old and worn, but never fails to captivate you with its old world charm.

Here are some of their most famous dishes:

Spicy Tuna Sashimi

Not the usual Tuna Sashimi, Kikufuji's version is deep fried with hints of chili and light mayo dressing. Never thought that Sashimi could be served this way; it's like sashimi blasphemy. At first, it doesn't seem edible and was purely lacking in aesthetic quality, but one bite will make you realize that it's the living testament to "Don't judge the book by its cover."

Sake

- Not the wine, but Salmon Sushi. Sushi's here are usually sold per piece and Sake is at P72.00. This is my favorite Sushi at Kikufuji. The sushis and sashimis here taste really fresh and clean. 

P.S. The Salmon has Wasabi paste in the middle. Just cautioning sensitive eaters out there. :)

Wagyu Sticks

- OMFG. NOW I'M CRAVING. Prepare to forget your name when you sink your teeth in these sticks of melt-in-your-mouth, squared pieces of heaven. My friends were right about this: it's the juiciest Wagyu barbecue there is. A little fatty, but who cares? Who told you to go here on a diet? :D I also like that the meat is just peppered and salted, and brushed on with a bit of oil, thus the natural juiciness of the meat is retained. I could be overhyping, I could just be a plain meat lover, but think about this: It is no accident that five of my friends, including I, who tried these for the first time ended up LOVING them. Never ever forget to try these when you visit Kikufuji! ;)

Izakaya Kikufuji serves simply tasty Japanese food. That's it! This restaurant is always packed though, most especially Fridays, so it's best to plan your visit most especially if you're coming from a far area. ;)

Izakaya Kikufuji is located at 2277 Little Tokyo, Chino Roces Ave., Legaspi Village, Makati City. Call them at 893-7319/893-6131.