New eats: Japan’s yakitori chain Torikizoku is now in PH

Another popular restaurant chain in Japan has made its way to the Philippines. 

Torikizoku formally opened its first branch in the country on Monday, October 12, at Serendra in Bonifacio Global City, Taguig. Founded in Osaka in 1985, the yakitori chain boasts of over 700 stores in Japan and has become known for its tasty yet affordable grilled chicken skewers. 

The newly launched BGC branch follows the same template, with a flat pricing of P190 across all of its menu items. Torikizoku serves a variety of chicken parts (such as wings, tail, liver, heart, and even cheese-topped meatballs) that come in two seasoning styles (salt or tare, a sweet soy sauce glaze), with each standard order consisting of two skewers.

There’s also the Kizokuyaki, a larger yakitori that comes in two types (thigh and breast) and three flavors (salt, tare, and a pepper spice blend). There’s a lot to order alongside the skewers, from the standard fries and edamame to rice bowls and dessert. 

Don’t expect anything fancy here: Torikizoku’s appeal lies in its intentional simplicity for a more welcoming izakaya experience. It removes the stresses normally associated with group dining such as how to split the bill (since everything is priced the same) and having to call the staff multiple times (orders are made via tablets mounted on each table).

Torikizoku is banking on Filipinos’ love for barbecue and communal dining as it plans to open more branches in the country. Naturally, the Japanese community here is also excited to have another taste of home.

“Many Japanese, including those living in BGC like me, appreciate being able to enjoy the same original taste and dining experience,” said Yokota Naobumi, minister for economic affairs at the Embassy of Japan, who was also present at the launch. “Many of my colleagues love Torikizoku in Japan, and we are happy that it is now here.”

“Today’s opening is more than just the launch of a restaurant. It’s another meaningful step for the strong and enduring friendship between Japan and the Philippines,” he added, citing the 70th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the two countries.