The renowned home-style washoku spot serves “mother’s recipe” meals that hit all the homestyle notes

Ootoya, the Japanese comfort-food institution, finally landed in Manila on February 28 at the Grand Hyatt Manila Residences South Tower in BGC. And yes, it’s every bit as good as people have been raving about.

I got a first taste before the official opening, and I can honestly say that this isn’t just hype. Since 1958, Ootoya has been serving up meals that feel like they were made in a real Japanese home kitchen—complete with that nostalgic “mother’s recipe” warmth. Their signature teishoku set meals and lineup of a la carte dishes hit all the familiar flavors and surprise you with something new. This is Japanese comfort food done right.

Hearty and healthful set meals

At the center of Ootoya’s philosophy is simplicity that shines. Each meal is freshly prepared from scratch, following the principles of washoku—traditional Japanese home-style cooking that emphasizes balance, nutrition, and comfort. A typical teishoku set includes steamed rice, miso soup, a main protein, and seasonal vegetable sides. It’s straightforward, hearty, and carefully curated to feel nourishing without ever feeling heavy.

For those prioritizing lighter, health-conscious options, Ootoya leans heavily on fish and chicken, prepared with care so flavor never takes a backseat. The Sima Hokke Sumibiyaki, a charcoal-grilled atka mackerel, was an absolute standout for me. Ootoya’s proprietary grilling system—combining gas heat, ceramic balls, and charcoal—delivers the distinct aroma, flavor, and texture of Japanese-style yaki, now perfectly realized right here in Manila. Thanks to this careful technique, the mackerel’s skin comes out perfectly crisp while the flesh stays tender and flavorful, practically melting on your tongue.

I so loved the Tres Leches Matcha, a dreamy smoothie that blends earthy matcha with the velvety cream of the well-loved Spanish dessert. The Aburi Hotate Roll was likewise a highlight. Think: succulent lightly seared scallops with a subtle caramel glaze that hits smoky and fresh notes in every bite. The Salmon Oshizushi—three irresistible layers of pressed salmon: raw, seared, and seared with a creamy mayo finish—also proved irresistible. Ootoya’s signature Tofu Salad was unexpectedly comforting, with silky tofu resting on crisp greens swathed in sweet-and-tangy sesame dressing—light, refreshing, and super satisfying! And yes, I had TWO desserts (don’t judge). First up, the Shiratama Matcha Zenzai, a mix of matcha ice cream, chewy rice cake balls, silky jelly, sweet azuki beans, and drizzles of kuromitsu, each spoonful a scrumptious swirl of textures and tastes. Quick on its heels (and before guilt could overcome me), the very matcha-forward Matcha Parfait, which layered creamy matcha ice cream with fresh mango, mixed berries, cream, and kuromitsu, offering a playful, fruity contrast to the rich green tea flavor. Full disclosure: you have to be a matcha lover (as I am) to fully appreciate both.

Bonus: Ootoya bottles its own shoyu, striking that spot-on sweet-salty-umami balance that elevates every dish, making even the simplest bite feel thoughtfully crafted. Yum!

A space for every foodie mood and moment

Ootoya’s BGC location isn’t just about food—it’s about experience. The two-floor space is designed to accommodate all dining moods. The ground floor seats 30-40 guests in a cozy, intimate setting, perfect for solo lunches or casual dinners, while the second floor can fit up to 80, complete with four private function rooms ideal for family gatherings, intimate celebrations, or group dinners. Sleek, stylish, and minimalist, the interiors cater to your inner Japanophile while keeping the vibe approachable and relaxed.

This calm, inviting atmosphere is a key part of what makes Ootoya so appealing. Whether you’re here for a quiet solo meal, a well-deserved lunch away from your work desk, a long overdue catch-up with friends, or a fun-filled family gathering, the restaurant is thoughtfully designed for comfort and connection. It’s the kind of place where meals are meant to be savored, not rushed—a refreshing pause from Manila’s relentless pace.

From Tokyo to Manila, a global story

Founded in Tokyo in 1958, Ootoya has grown from a single restaurant into a global powerhouse with over 138 locations in eight countries, including iconic spots in New York’s Times Square and Chelsea. Its international approach prioritizes authenticity over gimmicks or forced localization, ensuring that every dish remains true to its Japanese home-style roots.

Bringing this culinary heritage to Manila is Ootoya’s local partner, Federal Brent Retail, a division of Federal Land, Inc. The collaboration blends Ootoya’s centuries-old culinary philosophy with Federal Land’s expertise in lifestyle and retail concepts, ensuring smooth operations and long-term growth in the Philippine market.

Washoku, one nourishing plate at a time

Ootoya is more than just a restaurant; it’s a lesson in Japanese dining culture. Meals here are prepared with intention and served thoughtfully—every plate is a small celebration of balance, flavor, and comfort.

Whether you’re in it for a quick lunch, a leisurely dinner, or a special celebration, the first Philippine branch at Grand Hyatt Manila Residences South Tower promises an experience that’s wholesome, satisfying, and unmistakably washoku. Go on; savor the pleasures of a homestyle Japanese meal. You deserve it.

Ootoya opens daily from 11 AM to 10 PM. For reservations, call (02) 8724 5847 or follow @OOTOYA.PH on Instagram and Facebook for updates.

#Ootoya
#OotoyaPH
#OotoyaBGC
#JapaneseComfortFood
#Teishoku
#JapanInManila
#HomeStyleCooking
#FederalBrentRetail
#ExpatPH
#ExpatEats
Federal Land, Inc.