Japan’s celebrated grill master brings four decades of culinary artistry to Manila’s newest upscale yakiniku destination.
Bonifacio Global City welcomes a new chapter in Japanese fine dining with the opening of Hiro Premier Japanese Yakiniku, now delighting guests at the Skypark of SM Aura. At its heart is MasterChef Shogo Izawa, a Tokyo-born culinary virtuoso whose precision, passion, and respect for tradition redefine how Manila experiences authentic Japanese yakiniku.
For over 40 years, Chef Izawa has championed Japanese cuisine on the global stage. A world cooking champion with titles earned in England and Taiwan, he has represented Japan in international events, including the GRAMMYs in the United States. Known for his quiet discipline and unwavering devotion to craft, he approaches every dish as both a ritual and an art form.
“Opening our SM Aura branch is more than just a restaurant launch—it’s a celebration of Japanese culinary artistry,” says Izawa. “We take pride in bringing the very best of Japan, from pasture to plate, right here to Manila.”
A culinary vision, perfected over fire
Hiro Premier’s new branch at SM Aura offers guests an elevated yakiniku experience centered around A4 and A5 Omi Wagyu, sourced exclusively from Daikichi Japanese Black Wagyu Farm in Shiga Prefecture—one of Japan’s oldest and most esteemed producers. With a 400-year legacy dating back to the Edo era, Daikichi is renowned for its ethical farming, slow fattening process, and the prestigious A5 Omi Beef, one of Japan’s “Three Great Wagyu” alongside Kobe and Matsusaka.
Each cut is flown directly from Japan, ensuring unmatched freshness and flavor. Under Izawa’s supervision, every piece of wagyu is grilled with near-spiritual precision—balancing temperature, timing, and texture to achieve perfect caramelization and umami depth.
Where tradition meets tranquility
Inside Hiro Premier, the ambiance is an extension of Izawa’s philosophy: serene, balanced, and intentional. Minimalist wood-and-stone interiors, soft pendant lighting, and bonsai accents create a Zen-like sanctuary in the middle of the city. Guests can enjoy private dining rooms for intimate gatherings or personal grilling counters for quiet indulgence—each designed to mirror the understated grace of Japan.
Beyond its culinary offerings, Hiro Premier is a masterclass in Omotenashi, the Japanese spirit of wholehearted hospitality. The restaurant’s fully Japanese-trained team ensures that every detail—from the temperature of the grill to the placement of a chopstick—reflects genuine care and respect for each guest.
For those who seek more than a meal, Hiro Premier Japanese Yakiniku at SM Aura offers a journey—one that celebrates discipline, heritage, and flavor. With Chef Shogo Izawa at the helm, Manila’s diners can now experience the rare harmony of precision grilling and soulful Japanese hospitality in one exquisite destination.
Hiro Premier Japanese Yakiniku is now open at the 5th Level, Skypark, SM Aura, Taguig City. Follow @hiro_premier on Instagram or call +63917 120 0282 for reservations.
