Most Filipinos will readily agree that sushi, tempura, ramen and sukiyaki are always a good idea on any given day. With Japan being one of Filipinos’ favorite travel destinations, it comes as no surprise that Japanese food tops the list when it comes to their most craveable international cuisine.
And if there is one place that’s guaranteed to hit the spot, Inari Sukiyaki delivers on a deliciously authentic experience every single time.
Inspired by their deep love for all things Japan, Inari Sukiyaki is the brainchild of foodies and restaurateurs Rich and Maxine Sanz. Drawing from their combined experience as multi-awarded F&B entrepreneurs, and insights as thought-leaders in the global fine-dining scene, they wanted to create a dining concept that would transport their patrons to the Land of the Rising Sun.
Their starting point were their two favorite cities, Tokyo and Kyoto — crafting a menu that paid homage to its food and culture. Their first outlet opened as part of the food hall over at Robinson’s Magnolia. When it came time for their second branch, they upped the ante with a much larger full-service space, which opened recently at the 4th floor of SM Aura.
As the name implies, the much-beloved Japanese dish Sukiyaki is the main inspiration for Inari Sukiyaki, served up in two different ways.
It was interesting to learn that there are two variants to this dish, both of which are the restaurant’s signature dishes. Tokyo-style, which is served with soup and glass noodles, is the most familiar version. A rising favorite is their Kyoto-style Sukiyaki bowl, which is a dry version of the iconic dish, served with a side of Japanese rice.
While these two dishes feature USDA Karubi and Australian High-Choice Striploin and USDA Black Angus Misuji, both Rich and Maxine knew they could take it a step further. They raised the bar even more on this iconic dish by using melt-in-your-mouth A5 Wagyu flown in from the Shiga Prefecture in Japan, known for its exquisite marbling and flavor. To be honest, it is difficult to choose a favorite as both dishes pack quite a flavor punch. It’s an exclusive to the SM Aura branch, which means a meal over there is a must!
Of course, no Japanese restaurant menu is complete without staples like the House Special Ebi Tempura, Sizzling Salmon, King Prawn Abur, and other small plates and signature rolls. Suffice it to say, all these dishes are surefire hits. Other BGC exclusives are the Sapporo Draft Beer, a range of Japanese Gelato flavors (the Yuzu flavor is a must-try!), and refreshing house-brewed iced teas.
The best way to enjoy Inari’s signature dishes is at the restaurant’s dining bar, which seats 21, for a meal that is both immersive and engaging. Chefs come out to prepare your sukiyaki of choice right in front of you. And the aromas wafting up from the simmering pot are enough to whet your appetite.
By the time the tray is set before you, there is little else to keep you from diving right in. Here’s a hot tip from Maxine herself for maximum sukiyaki enjoyment – follow the little Inari Sukiyaki fox’s handy step-by-step guide. Yes, it made quite a difference!
The restaurant’s SM Aura branch also offers a private room, which can seat up to 10 persons, perfect for intimate gatherings, dates, or special occasions.
Want the hot take on Inari Sukiyaki? Once those Japanese food cravings hit, it’s time to head out, grab a seat at the dining bar, feel the anticipation build, and once the tray is set in front of you, savor every delicious bite.