Koku is a name that may not immediately ring a bell even among many Makati restaurant habitués. But for those who have already discovered this little
Japanese restaurant along Valero Street in Salcedo Village, Makati City,
Koku is a name that is synonymous with first-rate Japanese food. A testament to that is Koku’s numerous five-star ratings
in the popular food and restaurant directory, Zomato.
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| Wagyu Teppanyaki |
Our experience at Koku Restaurant
Khris and I discovered Koku during one of our random walks before going home. It was on the ground floor of the Two Central Building.
Like most first-time diners, we had no idea what Koku offered but after a
quick scan of its menu, it immediately became apparent to us what the restaurant was all about. Koku had a lot of good selections on its menu that are not available in most Japanese restaurants. Take for example its Sushi
Pizza choices.
Koku’s Sashimi, Sushi, and Maki choices are also not commonly seen in other
similar restaurants’ menu like Tuna Poke, Uni Aburi, Saba, and Katana Maki,
just to name a few.
The food
We have tried Koku’s Katsudon, Wagyu Teppanyaki, and Salmon and Cream Cheese
Maki. Katsudon (P248) is a breaded crispy pork cutlet that is served on
top of rice.
The pork had the right thickness of the coating, providing just a suitable hint of crunch and flavor to the meat. The pork, meanwhile, remained tender and juicy making each bite enjoyable. Its sauce was not overpowering, it enhanced the taste of the meat and provided it a little more succulence.
It was also our first time to taste Salmon and Cream Cheese Maki (P278).
It was salmon, cucumber, and cream cheese wrapped in sushi rice.
This one had flavors that are in full harmony. The salmon and cream cheese perfectly complemented each other while the cucumber added texture. Each bite was a mélange of tastes. We also plan to try the Crispy Salmon Skin
Maki on another visit.
Among all the dishes that we tried at Koku, probably the most unforgettable was the Wagyu Teppanyaki (P548). It was cubed Japanese beef that was served with grilled vegetables and sauce.
The wagyu was really tender and juicy; no force was needed in chewing the meat. This is one dish that we can eat over and over again and not grow tired of it.
Our verdict
Considering its price and servings, we would say it’s one of the more affordable wagyu beef offered in other restaurants today. We have been to
Koku on two occasions; both times our experience was consistently pleasant because of the noteworthy service and food.
The price is also affordable so it’s not too hard on the budget if you want to indulge in your favorite Japanese dishes. Koku has only one branch and it
is located on Ground Floor, Two Central Building, Valero Street, Salcedo
Village, Makati City.
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*I lost the rest of the food photos from Koku that is why this post only
has one photo.
I love Japanese food! I'll check this out soon :) Thanks for sharing!
You should, although Koku has only one branch. Thank you!
I often visit Salcedo area but haven't notice this restaurant. Will visit it this weekend and will order your recommendation.
That's because Koku is partially hidden. Do try their food, it's really good.
It's great that you discovered this! I've been craving for Japanese food. I'll definitely go here when I'm in the area.
There are plenty of hole-in-the-wall food in Makati, I heard and I guess this is one of them. I should try it soon! Do they have parking space?
I like how that Wagyu Teppanyaki looks. It looks so filling and satisfying. Sometimes Japanese dishes are served with so little meat (less than I anticipate) and I feel ''bitin'' every time.
I love Japanese food but it's too far from me. I'll definitely try it pag naligaw ako don hehe..
We love Japanese dishes and we will try this soon
Try it soon. Parking is at the Two Central Building.
You should, but they have only one branch. Thank you!
Medyo malayo nga ang Koku sa'ýo. At tago pa. Haha. Thank you.
Yup, the servings in Koku are nice. Thank you.
Must-try! It's one of our favorites at Koku.
Yes. You can park at the Two Central Building.
Koku is partially hidden. Do try their food, it's really good.