MAKATI CITY — Tucked along the busy thoroughfare of Chino Roces Avenue Extension lies one of Makati's best-kept culinary secrets, Kazunori Japanese Restaurant. Since opening its doors in 2017, this Tokyo-inspired establishment has been quietly serving authentic Japanese cuisine from its unique location at the Ground Floor of the Mazda Makati Building at 2301 Chino Roces Avenue Extension. Owned by Nippon Hasha, the esteemed group behind Ramen Yushoken, Mendokoro Ramenba, and Marudori, Kazunori guarantees the same high standards that have made its sister restaurants beloved by food enthusiasts across Metro Manila.
Three Dining Concepts Under One Roof
What sets Kazunori apart is its seamless integration of three distinct dining experiences within a single 229-square-meter space. At the front, guests are welcomed by Kazu Cafe, a casual and laidback setup furnished with wooden tables and olive green sofas. The main dining area, located at the back, offers a traditional Japanese dining experience where diners can watch chefs perform their craft at the semi-open kitchen, overseen by Japanese chef Kazunori Kuramochi, the restaurant's namesake. Behind the cafe lies the sushi bar for omakase, where resident chef Saito Takeru prepares the restaurant's crown jewel: fresh, authentic, high-end sushi.
A Menu Rooted in Authenticity and Precision
Kazunori's extensive menu showcases both traditional and modern renditions of Japanese cuisine. The restaurant's commitment to quality is evident in its application of the Japanese art of ike jime, a meticulous technique of netting and killing fish to preserve freshness. Standout offerings include the Kamo Tsuke Soba, featuring cold buckwheat noodles paired with duck breast and foie gras tempura, and the Omakase Sushi, an exquisite selection entrusted to the sushi master's expert hands. Other must-try dishes include the Wagyu Truffle Soba, the tender Buta Kushi Miso (pork belly marinated in white miso), and the Tori Mune yakitori grilled over Japanese binchotan coals.
An Atmosphere of Warmth and Refinement
The experience at Kazunori is artisanal and sincere, dedicated to showcasing the real quality of every dish. The restaurant also offers a private room accommodating up to 12 guests for intimate gatherings, as well as full restaurant rental options for larger events. Beyond their flagship location, Nippon Hasha has recently expanded its café footprint with the standalone opening of Kazu Café at Ayala Triangle Gardens. While it shares the same culinary DNA and name as the café section of the original Kazunori, this new location is a dedicated concept focused on Yōshoku (Japanese-style Western comfort food).
