Unakichi: Is It Worth the Price?

UNAJYU JO (P980)

Unakichi prides itself in serving choice unagi slices; but that commitment comes at a steep premium. Its Unajyu Jo is already its lesser-grade variety, and it commands a P980 tab when served over rice. Although it's good enough for sharing, the unagi tasted just like those you get from other Japanese restaurants. I guess if you wish to taste the difference, you would have to opt for its ‘grilled excellent eel’ or what’s called as the Unajyu Gokujo; however, I was definitely not willing to shell out P1,580 for that.

UMAKI (P360)

Fortunately, the restaurant has other reasonably-priced dishes such as the Umaki. I’m not a fan of tamago; however, theirs had a melt-in-your-mouth consistency that’s simply magical to experience. It doesn’t hurt that each roll had a tiny piece of unagi inside.

SAKE SAIKYO YAKI (P330) and BUTABARA MISOZUKE (P280)

The Sake Saikyo Yaki features a sizeable piece of miso-glazed salmon which was quite decent taste-wise; while the fatty Butabara Misozuke commits in giving value for money as an order comes with two long rows of tasty pork belly.

SINGENMOCHI (P180)

The Singenmochi was plated nicely. This intriguing sticky rice dessert was definitely interesting and enjoyable to eat. One has the option to pair it with either vanilla ice cream or matcha ice cream. I recommend going all the way by opting for the matcha ice cream!

What’s surprising about Unakichi is that it’s service was highly commendable. The waiting staff was extremely attentive, helpful with recommendations, and courteous. This is a stark contrast from the service we’ve become accustomed to in other hole-in-the-wall Japanese concepts (ahem, Little Tokyo!).

Although I had a pleasant first visit, I don’t see myself coming back to the restaurant. Its unagi prices are simply too out of reach! I’m fine settling for the cheaper ones served by other Japanese restaurants or even the ones sold by Cold Storage.

Unakichi

GF Makati Cinema Square, Legaspi Village, Makati City

Date of Visit: November 2, 2016 with Lily Chua and Jem Chua