The South just got a little more exciting – and a lot more delicious!
On October 24, Yayoi Philippines officially opened its 15th branch at the Upper Ground Floor, Water Garden, East Wing of Festival Mall Alabang. This new home of authentic Japanese Teishoku dining marks Yayoi’s first branch in the South, finally answering the strong clamor of Southerners who have long been craving the Yayoi experience closer to home.
Bringing Teishoku to the South
For years, Yayoi’s branches across Metro Manila have been delighting diners with their signature Japanese sets and warm hospitality. From bustling hubs in Makati, BGC, and Quezon City, Yayoi has built a loyal following — and it’s no surprise that many Southies have been asking, “Kailan kaya magkaka-Yayoi sa Alabang?”
Festival Mall proved to be the perfect location. The Water Garden at the East Wing is fast becoming the mall’s newest food destination, lined with well-loved dining concepts and scenic outdoor views. With Yayoi joining the mix, the area now feels complete – a cozy spot for family lunches, friendly catch-ups, or solo food trips that bring you closer to Japan.
Filipinos’ Love for Japanese Cuisine
There’s no denying that Filipinos have a deep love for Japanese cuisine — from sushi and ramen to katsudon and tempura. It’s comfort food that feels light yet satisfying, simple yet full of heart. As a food blogger who has reviewed numerous Japanese restaurants here on blog, I’ve always admired how Yayoi stands out by offering something uniquely Japanese: the Teishoku dining style, which balances rice, soup, a main dish, and sides in one harmonious set.
Each meal is not just about taste – it’s about balance, mindfulness, and tradition. And that’s what Yayoi continues to bring to every plate they serve.
A Bit of Yayoi History
The Yayoi brand traces its origins to 1886, when YAYOI-KEN opened in Tokyo during the Meiji period as a western-style restaurant. Over time, it evolved into a specialist in ‘teishoku’ — the classic Japanese set meal of rice, soup, main dish and sides. Today, Yayoi has grown beyond Japan into international markets, including the Philippines.
Since opening its first local branch in Bonifacio Global City, Yayoi has become a favorite destination for Filipinos who crave genuine Japanese comfort food served with care and consistency.
A Grand and Cultural Opening
The grand opening at Festival Mall Alabang was a festive celebration of food and culture. Guests were welcomed with a vibrant performance featuring traditional Japanese instruments, filling the Water Garden with the sound of Taiko drums and Japanese melodies. It was a feast for the senses — an experience that captured Yayoi’s heritage and hospitality.
Must-Try Favorites
When you visit, we highly recommend trying some of Yayoi’s standout dishes — personally loved favorites include the Salmon Teriyaki Teishoku, Sukiyaki Teishoku, Mix Toji Teishoku, Chicken Namban Teishoku and Katsu Don.
Each set comes with rice, miso soup, and side dishes — giving you the true Teishoku experience that’s sulit and babalik-balikan for sure.
Tara na Southies!
Congratulations to Yayoi Philippines for this successful milestone! With this new branch, more Filipinos can experience Japan’s culinary harmony right here in Alabang.
So, Southies — it’s your turn! Visit Yayoi at Festival Mall Alabang, Water Garden (East Wing, Upper Ground Floor) and enjoy a dining experience that blends tradition, taste, and comfort. Whether it’s your first visit or your next food adventure, Yayoi is ready to welcome you with open arms and warm bowls of Teishoku goodness.
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