Taste of Japan: A culinary experience

The Japanese dining experience in the country has been elevated and redefined.

The Standard Hospitality Group marked a milestone recently by opening the biggest Kiwami: Japanese Master Kitchens in SM Mall of Asia. The largest location and flagship store located in the biggest mall in the country boasts of over 700 square meters in space with a 250 seating capacity. The amazing space that celebrates craftsmanship and culinary excellence is designed with sleek interiors echoing modern Japanese minimalism.

The go-to destination for fine-casual Japanese experience in the Philippines features six master kitchens, each with its own dedicated kitchen space, specialized equipment, and Japan-trained chefs whose sole focus is exclusively on one iconic dish. The curated lineup includes Yabu, the house of Katsu; Ippudo for ramen with their signature Tonkotsu broth, Hachibei with hakata-style yakitori grilled over traditional Binchotan charcoal, Hannosuke for their Tokyo-famous tendon bowls, Hokkaido for the dreamy milky soft serve, and Koyo Handroll Bar for Standard Hospitality’s latest master kitchen, featuring bold and innovative big sushi creations.

This successful and well-attended launch marked the contemporary food hall’s third major opening in less than a year following the highly-successful relaunch in Bonifacio Global City and expansion in Alabang Town Center. What makes Kiwami Japanese Master Kitchens truly exceptional is having a dedicated master kitchen for each culinary concept to create consistent dishes that reflect the mastery and excellent quality that you would find if you were to enjoy these same restaurants in Japan. “As we expand, we stay true to our philosophy of mastery over mass,” said Michael Concepcion, SHG creative director. “Each of our Master Kitchens is designed to deliver nothing short of excellence — this is what sets Kiwami apart.”