Kiwami just opened its third and biggest store yet, welcoming guests both new and old with a vast selection of Japanese fare that’ll satisfy any craving.
Choosing where or what to eat is quite the dilemma, and a common one at that. When you’re with a big group, let’s say family or friends, taking account of everyone’s preferences and trying to reach a middle ground can be tricky. For the indecisive eaters out there who crave more variety in their meals, choosing just one kind of dish—even within the same cuisine—can feel like picking a favorite child (the right answer is there’s no answer). Luckily, the F&B scene in the country has evolved to fill the gap; and when diners think of a place that serves just about every kind of Japanese dish you can crave, Kiwami is the name that comes to mind.
Kiwami Japanese Master Kitchens first opened in Bonifacio Global City (BGC), and its critical success has led to the establishment of two other stores: one in Alabang Town Center, and another more recently in SM Mall of Asia. The latter store is Kiwami’s largest location yet, as well as its flagship store, and Lifestyle Asia got the chance to explore it before it officially opens to the public on June 25, 2025.
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Bigger And Better Than Ever
While the Kiwami stores in BGC and Alabang Town Center both underwent expansions over the years, its branch in SM Mall of Asia is still an impressive space. Spanning over 700 square meters, the store has a 250-seat capacity (which is fitting considering its location in the country’s biggest mall). Similar to its other branches, the flagship store boasts sleek interiors that reflect Japanese modern minimalism, creating an ambient atmosphere with a sense of place.
Even with quite a few guests during our visit, the space never felt cramped. Tables are spaced out appropriately, lending a feeling of privacy despite the amount of people you’re surrounded by. At the same time, intuitive table arrangements make both group dining and solo meals feel natural.
Access To Your Favorite Japanese Master Kitchens
Then there’s the crown jewel of Kiwami: its roster of master kitchens. Some names are already beloved staples in the local food scene, while others are newer concepts that continue to provide fresh takes on Japanese cuisine (and will, no doubt, find their place in the country’s food canon). The great thing about having so many solid concepts under one roof is you’ll never come out of Kiwami feeling like you missed something: you can, in the spirit of Pokemon, truly eat them all.
Craving katsu? Head on over to Yabu. Ippudo serves that same high-quality ramen diners crave, but if you’re looking for other noodle dishes, no sweat: Hannosuke serves soba and tempura sets along with its Tokyo-famous tendon bowls. Meanwhile, Hachibei offers all the smoky goodness you’re palate desires with its Hakata-style yakitori grilled over traditional binchōtan charcoal (though yakitori isn’t the only thing in its menu; we highly recommend trying their Oyster Rockefeller, large oysters straight from Japan placed over the fire in all their creamy glory).
One of Kiwami’s newer concepts is Koyo, a “handroll bar” serving up bold and innovative sushi creations. Whether it’s spicy tuna rolls with a twist or an unagi (freshwater eel) and tamagoyaki special, there’s something for everyone in the sushi spot. Another new concept is Hibachi, which offers grilled, succulent meats drizzled with delectable sauces in shareable plates.
Save some room for dessert as well: like the Kiwami stores before it, the flagship branch features its famous Hokkaido Soft Cream station—and while they’ve got plenty of soft serve variations, people can’t get enough of the lengua de gato-style cone and cup options.
And don’t worry, you won’t have to visit every stall to figure out what’s being served—each concept has its own special tab in one handy menu, which is also conveniently arranged into categories from appetizers to sweet treats.
One might ask what makes Kiwami stand out from your average food halls. The best way to answer this question is to experience it yourself, but if we’re going to describe it, it’s all in the name. Kiwami roughly translates to “ultimate” in Japanese, and it is, in every sense of the word.
Its philosophy is centered on single-dish mastery, something you’ll often witness across dining spots in Japan. Each kitchen has its dedicated space, equipment, Japan-trained chefs, and specialities, imbibing the idea that if you’re going to do just one thing, then you’re going to be the very best at it. A large team and excellent service ensure quality without compromise. Yet paradoxically, Kiwami isn’t just one great thing—it’s a collection of the exceptional. If that’s not enough of a reason to pay it a visit (or more), then what is?
Kiwami is located on Level 1, North Entertainment Mall, SM Mall of Asia, and is open from Monday to Sunday, 10 AM to 10 PM.
Photos courtesy of Kiwami.
