If you’re living or working in the Makati Central Business District, or possibly roaming the city just like me, head over to Alphaland Makati Place where you’ll find Akira – the Art of Sushi and Teppanyaki. Don’t be confused with the location. This is not the one in Magallanes nor the one along Ayala Avenue. It is at the corners of Malugay Street and Ayala Avenue Extension, near Makati Fire Station.
This is actually the 3rd branch of Akira in the Philippines, but is the 1st store to be conceptualized by popular interior and furniture designer Kenneth Cobonpue. The result is a beautiful interpretation of the fall season in Japan. Diners get the al fresco dining experience in Japan. I personally like the modern and minimalist look of Akira Alphaland Makati Place. Plus, you can also sit in one of Cobonpue’s iconic creations, the red Kawayan Too chair.
Of course, the proof of the pudding is in the eating. We feasted on sushi, California rolls, beef teppan and shrimp tempura. All the dishes are made of fresh ingredient, in big serving. We were also served cocktails. But because I wasn’t ready for them yet, I simply took pictures of them.
We had a quick break from the dining table as we joined Akira Alphaland’s Teppanyaki Chef Lucky Salcedo demonstrate his stylized way of preparing food at the Teppanyaki table. We were all amazed at how skilled Chef Lucky is. Upon learning that he spent 20 years in Japan, I understood how he acquired such skills. Teppanyaki cooking in Japan is an art and I believe you can’t be called a Teppanyaki Chef if you haven’t mastered it. Chef Lucky sure showed us his mastery in his performance.
We were later ushered outside the restaurant for a real al fresco dining experience. Our dinner was capped with desserts. Perfect for that warm evening was the ice cream parfait topped with cherry and Belgian Chocolate Cookie which a sweet tooth like me really enjoyed. As the evening progressed, the lights were dimmed because it’s Yamazaki Friday. It’s a themed evening where guests also get to enjoy music played by guest DJs. This also happens on a Saturday evenings, only called Hakushu Night.
With good company to enjoy, I had the Fruit Safari Cocktails – a refreshing drink made of mixed fruits with vodka. We also had Japanese Sake which Akira offers in hot and cold variants. I highly recommend the hot sake because it’s smoother to drink.
I sure wish Akira Alphaland Makati Place existed even before when I was still working in Makati. This would have been a favorite hangout after office, especially while letting the heavy traffic subside. Visit the newest kid on the block for lunch, dinner or after office. The restaurant is also a perfect place for corporate function and events. For reservations and corporate bookings, please call 0917-7067328. Don’t forget to connect with Akira on Facebook and Instagram.
