Gyukatsu Boracay Celebrates First Anniversary — A Year of Excellence, Community, and Heart

Boracay Island, Philippines - November 13, 2025 - What began as a humble passion to bring Japan’s gyukatsu experience to the island has become one of Boracay’s most celebrated culinary success stories. This month, Gyukatsu Boracay proudly marks its first anniversary — a milestone that honors excellence, community, and the dedicated team behind every plate.

Founded by Kevin Tan, CEO of Ikigai International Restaurant OPC and COO of MKKS Food Industry, Gyukatsu Boracay opened with a vision to blend Japanese precision and Filipino warmth. “We wanted to introduce something new — not just another Japanese restaurant, but a true experience,” Tan shares. “Our gyukatsu uses imported Japan beef, while our Wagyu and steak dishes feature A5 Wagyu. Every detail matters, from the cut to the crunch, and most of all, the care that goes into every serving.”

A highlight of the menu is its A5 Kagoshima Wagyu — celebrated worldwide for its unmatched marbling, tenderness, and flavor. Kagoshima beef earned top honors at Japan’s Wagyu Olympics in 2017 and 2022, solidifying its status as one of the most awarded Wagyu varieties globally. Its inclusion sets a new benchmark for quality dining on the island, giving guests a rare chance to taste Japan’s finest beef right in Boracay.

Since its opening, Gyukatsu Boracay has consistently ranked #1 on Google for “Wagyu Boracay,” “A5 Wagyu Boracay,” and “Japanese Restaurant Boracay,” cementing its reputation for quality and trust. Now emerging among Boracay’s Best Steakhouses, the restaurant is recognized not only for its premium dishes but for its complete dining experience.

From its first guests to now nearly a thousand five-star reviews, customers describe Gyukatsu Boracay as more than a restaurant — it’s a memory. Reviews highlight not only the food but also the warmth of the staff, the inviting atmosphere, and the harmony of authenticity and comfort in every visit.

“Our guests always tell us the same thing — that it’s the people who make the food taste even better,” says Claudie Gica, General Manager of Gyukatsu Boracay. “We’re proud that our service team represents the heart of Boracay. They treat every diner like family, and that’s what guests remember long after their meal.”

Behind its continued growth is a strong marketing foundation and meaningful collaborations. Over the past year, Gyukatsu Boracay has partnered with Klook and built strong relationships with local and international travel creators, helping the brand stay top-of-mind among food travelers.

“As a brand, our goal has always been to connect authentically — not just advertise,” shares Ricka Raga, Head of Marketing for Gyukatsu Boracay. “Working closely with Klook and our creator community allowed us to highlight what makes Gyukatsu special — the people, the food, and the overall experience.”

Through high and low seasons, the restaurant has remained steadfast — open daily and consistent in service, flavor, and hospitality. Gyukatsu Boracay has become a model of how local talent paired with global standards can redefine dining excellence on the island.

Looking ahead, Gyukatsu Boracay is set to expand to Metro Manila in 2026, bringing its signature crispy-on-the-outside, tender-on-the-inside gyukatsu experience to a wider audience.

“This first anniversary is a celebration of everyone who believed in us — our hardworking team, our loyal guests, and the Boracay community that embraced us,” Tan adds. “We’re excited to carry this same spirit to Manila soon. Different city, same heart.”

From the shores of Boracay to the streets of the capital, Gyukatsu Boracay stands as proof that passion, purpose, and people are the true ingredients of lasting success.