If you’re craving authentic Japanese barbecue, this one is definitely worth your money (and even the travel if you’re coming from outside Metro Manila).
Yakiniku King (Photo: WhenInManila.com)
Yakiniku King, with over 350 stores across Japan, has finally opened its very first international branch right in the heart of Manila.
Located at SM Mall of Asia, this well-loved Japanese barbecue chain offers an extensive selection of premium meats, side dishes, and desserts—all curated to make your dining experience even more delightful.
With so many barbecue spots across the country, you might wonder why you should try this one. Before you decide, here are a few things you should keep in mind:
They have a three-tiered course system
At Yakiniku King, diners can choose from a three-tiered course system that varies in value and the number of items that are available to order:
- Select Grill Set (P1,099): the most affordable option, featuring 59 items
- King Grill Set (P1,299): a mid-range option, featuring 100 items
- Royal Grill Set (P1,599): a premium course, featuring 110 items. This includes premium cuts of beef, such as the thick-cut loin, premium kalbi (tare or salt), grilled shabu-shabu, premium kalbi with wasabi soy sauce, premium kalbi (spicy miso), and thick-cut beef tongue.
The course is free for children under three feet. Special discounts are also available: 50% off for kids between 3 feet to 4.3 feet, and 20% off for seniors (aged 60 and above).
They have a two-hour time limit
Dining at Yakiniku King comes with a two-hour time limit and a 90-minute cutoff for placing orders. Within this period, you can order as much as you want—and once your time is up, an alarm on your table will ring.
Photo: WhenInManila.com
During their soft opening, the waiting time was smooth and manageable. For efficiency, diners are encouraged to select up to ten items per order using their in-table tablet system, ensuring a faster and more seamless dining experience.
They have a private room for bigger groups
Nothing beats sharing good food with good company. For larger groups, Yakiniku King offers private VIP rooms that can accommodate more guests compared to the regular tables outside, which typically seat 4–6 people.
As of September 2025, the VIP rooms are available for walk-ins only and cannot be booked in advance.
Now that we’ve covered everything you need to know before visiting Yakiniku King, here are the highlights of our dining experience!
Fresh cuts of meat (and they have seafood, too!)
We were pleased with their premium and fresh cuts of meat. Once grilled, the meat turned out soft, tender, and flavorful. The meat is also perfectly complemented by any side dish or condiment you pair it with.
Photo: WhenInManila.com
Apart from their wide range of meats, they also have a seafood platter for diners who want lighter and fresher flavors beyond the usual beef, pork, and chicken.
Great portion sizes
Unlike other barbecue restaurants that serve large cuts, Yakiniku King’s portion sizes are intentionally smaller—making them manageable for diners who want to try out more dishes without feeling overwhelmed.
Photo: WhenInManila.com
From side dishes such as vegetables, salads, soups, and fried food, to their extensive meat selection, the smaller portions let you try a little bit of everything. This means you can enjoy more variety without feeling guilty about food waste or leaving plates untouched, since you only order what you truly want.
Even better, the service flow ensures that waiting times aren’t too long, so you can continue enjoying your meal while waiting for your next round of orders.
Desserts are on the less sweet side
Yakiniku King’s desserts are a sweet way to end the meal. Their options include soft-serve ice cream, parfaits, toast, fruit platters, and taho served in shot glasses.
Photo: WhenInManila.com
If you prefer desserts that aren’t overly sweet, you’re in for a treat. Their creamy soft-serve is delicious on its own, but also comes in chocolate, strawberry, and mango variations. The taho is indulgent in just the right amount, while the fruit platter is a refreshing, guilt-free choice after a fulfilling meal.
Whether you’re craving premium Japanese barbecue, planning to eat out with family and friends, celebrating a milestone, or simply looking for a solid yakiniku experience, Yakiniku King is a place worth visiting! With its high-quality meats, variety of options, and thoughtful dining setup, it delivers a premium Japanese feast that is bound to hit the right spot once the grill is fired up.
Yakiniku King is located at Level 1, North Entertainment Mall, SM Mall of Asia, Pasay City.
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