Makati Shangri-La's famed Japanese restaurant celebrates a momentous milestone

Way before it arrived in the Philippines and set up shop inside the prestigious Makati Shangri-La, Manila, in 1866, Inagiku just was a humble little tempura restaurant in Asakusa, Japan. Fast-forward to 150 years in the future, Inagiku has branched out internationally, in countries such as Singapore, China, and France. However, through all this time, it has maintained its principle of quality and rich flavours.

Inagiku-Chef-Wataru-Hikawa-and-Manager-Yoshio-Ishikawa.jpgThe executive chef Wataru Hikawa and the restaurant manager Yoshio Ishikawa

In Manila, Inagiku has been operating for 18 years under the helm of the executive chef Wataru Hikawa and the restaurant manager Yoshio Ishikawa. The two came to Manila from Singapore to work at Inagiku in Makati Shangri-La.

To celebrate the joyous occasion, a special luncheon was held at Inagiku where they served an overwhelming 11-course meal, beginning with an assortment of seasonal Japanese appetisers and ending with mocha ice cream with wagashi.

Inagiku-Zensai-Seasonal-Assorted-Japanese-Appetizer.jpgZensai - Seasonal Assorted Japanese Appetizer

For both Chef Hikawa and Ishikawa, the patrons’ trust plays a crucial part in Inagiku’s longevity. “I believe that guests only deserve the best,” said Chef Hikawa. “I make sure that I use top-quality ingredients in order to serve our guests only the best. My team and I fly to Japan every season to scout for fresh and seasonal ingredients that we can incorporate in our dishes.”

Inagiku-Gindara-Misoyaki-Silver-Cod-Marinated-in-Miso.jpgGindara Misoyaki - Silver Cod Marinated in Miso

The chef Hikawa has 28 years of experience in notable restaurants in Japan and Singapore, and was hailed the Best Japanese Chef in Asia outside of Japan. His Kaiseki selections are a favourite of loyal patrons. Kaiseki is a traditional multi-course meal that balances taste, texture, appearance, and colours.

Inagiku-Usuyaki-Steak-Thinly-Sliced-Beef-with-Mushroom-and-Garlic.jpgUsuyaki Steak - Thinly Sliced Beef with Mushroom and Garlic

Meanwhile, Ishikawa has served five star hotels since 1988 and has found his home in Makati Shangri-La. Under his watchful eye, Inagiku has remained steadfast in delivering only the most authentic fare. “Inagiku’s consistency has gained the trust of the customers, and this is something that will not change,” he said.

Inagiku, Makati Shangri-La, Manila, Makati Avenue corner Ayala Avenue, Makati City