Overview

Ichiba: Japanese Market, located in Newport City, Pasay, is a standout among the Philippines' seafood restaurants. Drawing inspiration from Japan’s vibrant seafood markets, Ichiba offers a unique and immersive dining experience that transports guests straight to the heart of Tokyo’s famous Tsukiji Market. With its fresh seafood, authentic Japanese dishes, and lively atmosphere, Ichiba has quickly become a favorite destination for seafood lovers and Japanese cuisine enthusiasts alike.

Ichiba is modeled after Japan’s traditional fish markets, where the freshest catches of the day are showcased and prepared in various ways. The restaurant’s design reflects this theme, with market stalls, wooden crates, and colorful banners adding to the authentic ambiance. Guests can walk around the restaurant, explore the different stalls, and select from a wide array of seafood and other Japanese specialties, making the dining experience interactive and engaging.

At the heart of Ichiba’s appeal is its commitment to freshness. The restaurant sources its seafood daily, offering a diverse selection that includes everything from oysters and lobsters to fresh tuna and salmon. Guests can choose their preferred seafood directly from the display, ensuring that their meal is as fresh as it gets. Once selected, the seafood is prepared on the spot by skilled chefs, who use traditional Japanese cooking techniques to bring out the best flavors.

Ichiba’s market-style setup encourages interaction and exploration. Guests can watch as their seafood is expertly prepared at the various cooking stations, whether it’s being grilled, steamed, or served raw as sashimi. This open-kitchen concept not only adds excitement to the dining experience but also allows guests to appreciate the skill and precision involved in Japanese culinary traditions.

Ichiba offers an extensive menu that goes beyond seafood, featuring a wide range of Japanese dishes that cater to all tastes. From sushi and sashimi to ramen and tempura, the restaurant provides an authentic taste of Japan that’s sure to satisfy even the most discerning palates.

Ichiba’s sushi and sashimi offerings are a highlight of the menu. The freshness of the seafood is evident in every bite, with options like Salmon Sashimi, Tuna Sushi, and Uni (sea urchin) being particularly popular. For those looking to indulge, the Sushi Platter offers a selection of the day’s best, beautifully arranged and served with traditional condiments like soy sauce, wasabi, and pickled ginger.

In addition to its raw offerings, Ichiba is known for its grilled seafood, which is prepared on a robatayaki (Japanese charcoal grill). The Grilled Scallops and Ebi Tempura are standout dishes, offering a perfect balance of smoky flavor and tender texture. The Miso Soup with Clams is another must-try, providing a comforting and flavorful start to any meal.

Beyond seafood, Ichiba’s menu includes a variety of traditional Japanese dishes, such as Ramen, Donburi (rice bowls), and Okonomiyaki (savory pancakes). These dishes are prepared with the same attention to detail and quality that characterizes the seafood offerings, ensuring a well-rounded dining experience.

The atmosphere at Ichiba is both lively and elegant, capturing the energy of a bustling Japanese market while maintaining the refined aesthetics of Japanese design. The restaurant is spacious, with communal tables that encourage social dining, as well as more intimate seating options for those seeking a quieter experience.

Ichiba’s decor is a key part of its charm. The restaurant is designed to resemble a traditional Japanese market, complete with stalls that mimic those found in Tokyo’s Tsukiji Market. The attention to detail is evident in every aspect, from the wooden crates stacked with fresh produce to the hanging lanterns that cast a warm glow over the space. This immersive environment makes dining at Ichiba feel like a mini-trip to Japan.

Ichiba is a family-friendly restaurant that welcomes guests of all ages. The interactive dining experience is particularly appealing to families, as children can enjoy watching the chefs at work and exploring the different market stalls. The menu also includes kid-friendly options, making it easy for families to find something that everyone will enjoy.

At Ichiba, the service is as much a part of the experience as the food and ambiance. The staff are knowledgeable, attentive, and always ready to assist with recommendations or special requests. Whether it’s explaining the different types of seafood available or suggesting the best sake to pair with your meal, the team at Ichiba is dedicated to ensuring that every guest has an enjoyable and memorable dining experience.

Curated by the World Culinary Awards