As a Makatizen, I’m, always on the look out for the newest restaurants and cafes in Makati. One that I shamefully almost missed is the Nagi Sushi. This Japanese premium restaurant started in October 6, 2023, and I got to try it three months later! Will all the holiday happenings and hassles, my radar totally malfunctioned for a bit. By the way, Nagi Sushi is famous for their authentic Japanese ramen and sushi sets. Sounds familiar? That’s because their name comes from the makers of the renowned Ramen Nagi, the restaurant that grew popularity since 2013. They introduced several limited-edition ramen bowls, including the Ebi King, the Manila King, and the Wagyu King. Visitors can Nagi Sushi at The frst floor of The Shops at Ayala Triangle Gardens, opend aily from 10 AM – 9 PM.
Veteran sushi chef Oshikiri, with over 30 years of experience, flew in from Japan to oversee Nagi Sushi’s grand launch. The staff were personally trained to master the restaurant’s made-to-order specialties: classic nigiri and hand-rolled temaki. He also shared essential sushi etiquette. Use minimal soy sauce, dip the fish side instead of the rice, cleanse the palate with gari (pickled ginger) between bites, and enjoy nigiri in one mouthful for the best experience. He also trained them to prepare the restaurant’s two made-to-order offerings: the classic nigiri and the hand-rolled temaki. Che Oshikiri went on to share other ways to properly eat sushi. That is to not drown it in soy sauce, dip the fish side instead of rice, cleanse the palate between bites with gari (pickled ginger), and enjoy the nigiri in one bite.
The Menu
Nagi Sushi specializes in expertly crafted sushi and Ramen Nagi’s signature ramen bowls. The sushi here uses Koshihikari rice, seasoned with aka-zu vinegar for a deep umami flavor. The restaurant sources its nori from Tsutaken Shoten in Yokohama, ensuring crisp texture and rich taste. For an extra layer of authenticity, they use wasabi from Kaneku, a well-known supplier that combines traditional and modern techniques to create the perfect balance of heat and aroma. Since Nagi Sushi is a Nagi concept, guests have the option of pairing their sushi with a delicious bowl of ramen. The restaurant offers six kinds of ramen, each with a distinct flavor profile. From the classic Butao ramen, known for its rich, creamy broth, to the bold and savory sardine-infused Niboshi King. For those who want to indulge further, Nagi Sushi also offers three kinds of premium ramen sets, perfectly designed to complement their sushi offerings.
After a satisfying meal, don’t miss out on the dessert options. Nagi Sushi serves ice cream in three unique flavors: matcha, black sesame, and wasabi. The wasabi ice cream, in particular, acts as a palate cleanser, refreshing the taste buds for a complete dining experience. Nagi Sushi also features an open kitchen where both diners and passersby can watch the chefs at work. This setup lets guests see the care and skill that goes into preparing each dish, including the hand-rolled temaki. Watching the chefs prepare sushi, ramen, and temaki adds to the dining experience and creates a connection between the food and those enjoying it. It’s a great way to see the quality and attention to detail that goes into every meal.
Recommendation
If you’re looking for similar places to try, you should check:
- Genki Sushi – Trying the kaiten-zushi (conveyor belt) experience!
- Edoya – Little Tokyo Makati’s New Sushi and Sashimi Haven!
- Little Tokyo; A glimpse of Japan in Makati!
How to get there?
MRT:
- Ride the MRT Line 3 and alight at Ayala Station.
- Exit the station and head towards Glorietta Mall.
- Walk to the Ayala Triangle Gardens (just a short walk from the station). Nagi Sushi is located in The Shops, Tower 2, within the complex.
Bus:
- Take a bus that passes through Ayala Avenue or Makati Avenue.
- Alight at the Ayala Triangle Gardens or Makati Avenue stop.
- Walk to the entrance of the park and head to The Shops for Nagi Sushi.
Jeepney:
- Ride a jeepney heading to Ayala or Makati.
- Alight at the Ayala Triangle Gardens or Makati Avenue stop.
- Walk towards the Ayala Triangle Gardens and look for The Shops where Nagi Sushi is located.
