Article by Jyra Ang / Photos by Zachary Garcia

If you love Japanese food – come on: who doesn’t? – and are willing to try something new, Hibana is the place for you. Tucked in one of the many corners of Legaspi Village, Makati City; it is one of those hidden gems around the Metro. Greeted by the huge scrolls that line the walls when you walk in, you’ll find that the restaurant exudes modernity mixed with Japanese tradition.

This ambiance translates into their food, as well. Every dish is Chef Mark Tan’s own concoction, and they all give a modern twist on traditional Japanese dishes and spices.

Baked Seafood (Php695)

A hot starter must-try is their Baked Seafood served on a piping hot dish. Hokkaido scallop, Hokkaido snow crab, prawns, and mushrooms are mixed in a creamy sauce and topped with bubbling torched cheese for the ultimate indulgence.

Wagyu Beef Saikoro – Black Garlic (Php625)

For all the meat lovers out there, Hibana’s Wagyu Beef Saikoro with their signature Black Garlic sauce is to die for. One bite of the soft, buttery Wagyu paired with the crunchy slivers of garlic will definitely not be your last.

Above: Mayura Signature MS 9+Wagyu Kushiyaki (Php295/stick); Left: Porkbelly Kushiyaki (Php70/stick); Right: Chicken Thigh (Php55/stick)

Along with their Mayura Signature MS 9+Wagyu Kushiyaki, which the chef recommends to be either medium rare or medium, the two dishes feature melt-in-your-mouth Wagyu and delicious sauces that both complement and enhance the natural flavor of the beef. Other best-selling kushiyaki sticks are the Chicken Thigh and the Porkbelly Kushiyaki, both equally mouth-watering as the aforementioned.

Iberico Tonkatsu – Homemade Curry Sauce (Php595)

The hearty and delectable Iberico tonkatsu with homemade curry sauce is on the more traditional side. However, it has its own Hibana twist with sweeter sauce. It is also served with shredded cabbage with a mayonnaise-based dressing.

Salmon Aburi Maki (Php360)

Speaking of traditional dishes with a twist, Hibana also serves a number of sushi dishes. One of their bestsellers is the Salmon Aburi Maki, a fresh filling to complement the flavorful salmon laid on top.

Spicy Japanese Scallop with Tuna Maki (P425)

Another bestseller is the Spicy Japanese Scallop with Tuna Maki, which has a hint of spice at first bite that blends in with the tuna’s freshness and filling.

Soy Sauce Ice Cream (Php65)

To end it all, try something new and get Hibana’s famous Soy Sauce Ice Cream. Although it may sound strange at first, it is definitely worth trying. It is the perfect balance of sweet and salty and is the best way to end a hearty and delicious meal.

Mango Passionfruit Mousse Cake (Php260)

However, if you are looking for something sweeter, the Mango Passionfruit Mousse Cake is right up your alley. The smooth creamy cake mixed with the mango and passionfruit syrup oozing down the side is an experience like no other.

Whether you are a Japanese food lover looking for a new place to try or are an adventurous eater, drop by Hibana and you will surely be surprised by all the innovative and delicious dishes hidden in the Metro.

Hibana

Ground Floor, Grand Midori Building, Bolanos Street, Legaspi Village, Makati

Monday to Friday: 11:30am – 2pm and 6pm-10pm / Saturday: 6pm – 10pm / Sunday: Closed

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/hibanaph/

Instagram: @hibanaph