Written by Fe Esperanza Trampe / Photography by Caitlene Lee Uy

Whether you’re out for a quick lunch break or to catch up with friends, look up if you pass by Valero Street in Makati’s Salcedo Village. Amidst the many new and exciting food options in this unassuming corner of the Metro’s financial district, you will find a place offers a good and filling meal, as well as quite the experience.

Osakatsu is located at the 2nd Floor of the ACCM Building along Salcedo Village’s Valero Street

Climb up to the second floor of the ACCM Building and transport yourself to the streets of Osaka, Japan. From the loud graffiti on the walls to the wooden tables and stools, Osakatsu has captured Japan in its most vibrant state.

Inside Osakatsu

Only a few months in and with word of mouth spreading like wildfire, this hole-in-the-wall destination has already made quite a buzz – and it’s their food that does all the talking.

Osakatsu’s buffet table

Osakatsu is the first ever kushikatsu buffet in the Philippines. For only Php490, guests are treated to 90 minutes of unlimited deep-fried meat and vegetable skewers, and many other Japanese fares.

Osakatsu also serves a variety of drinks, including Japan’s revered sake

Osakatsu strives to give you a taste of not just Osaka, but also all of Japan as a whole. The Php490 price tag includes unlimited cabbage salad and sesame dressing, a number of Japanese entrees, and your choice of half a serving of ramen.

Miso and Tonkotsu Ramen

Of the three flavors of ramen available, their tonkotsu ramen is their bestseller with its hearty serving of meat in a rich pork-based broth. However, don’t count out Osakatsu’s miso ramen just yet. Its unique mix of flavors holds its own amidst the many others that will tickle your palate within the span of 90 minutes.

Each table is equipped with a deep fryer to cook your kushikatsu in

Without a doubt, the star of Osakatsu is its namesake, and the stage is already installed in the middle of your tables, ready for the show. Take your pick among the many choices of meat and vegetables on their buffet table, bring them back to your seats, and start cooking.

Japanese flour, butter mixture, and breadcrumbs

Each table will be provided with Japanese flour, butter mixture, and breadcrumbs to coat your kushikatsu with. Dip your sticks in that order, and then fry them to perfection. You won’t need to wait for long as these babies only take one to two minutes to fry, and then they’re good to go.

From left to right: Kushikatsu Cheese Ball, Osaka Tofu, and Sea Urchin Ball

Mix and match, or try everything. It’s a buffet, so get as much meat, vegetables, and cheese as you want. Osakatsu does not lack in variety. They even try to mix up the options as often as they can.

Among the choices at Osakatsu: quail eggs, shitake mushrooms, tuna, shrimps, porkloin, and tenderloin

While you’re already practically in Japan, save room for some sushi. A handful of makis are already included in the Php490 deal, but the sushi plates Osakatsu offers a la carte are also must-try’s.

Marilyn Mon Roll (Php235)

The Marilyn Mon Roll is a cheesy mix of tempura and rice that tastes different with every bite.

Edo San Special (Php580)

The Edo San Special is nothing less than an intricate – and edible! – work of art. Flavors from the rainforest and the sea mix in this plate;  avocado and seawater eel or anago come together in a blanket of seaweed and a drizzle of cheese.

Miso Ramen

Whether you’re looking to fill yourself silly, or just have a quick bite to eat, you can’t go wrong with Osakatsu. It’s truly a Japanese foodie’s heaven whatever time of day and whatever amount of food you’re ready to take in.

Osakatsu

2/F ACCM Building, 102 Valero Street, Salcedo Village, Makati

838-7591

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

Instagram: @osakatsumnl