If you’ve ever dreamed of sipping a cold beer in a cozy Tokyo alleyway after a long day of work, Kozara might just be your next go-to escape.
Tucked behind a hidden door behind Varigoods–a decade-old Davao gem, trusted for its export-quality Japanese products–Kozara is the kind of secret spot you stumble upon and immediately tell all your friends about. It’s low-lit and intimate, just enough to make you forget the chaos outside and settle into that “finally off the clock” energy.
The moment we were seated, they handed us menus along with oshiboris (chilled towels). The small gesture made it clear that Kozara is more than just its food, but the full izakaya experience.
Sir Kim Liu, who co-owns Kozara and Varigoods with his wife, frequently visits Japan for work, where he fell in love with Japanese cuisine and its food culture. When we asked him what a salaryperson might order after a long week, he laid out the steps like a ritual.
Ready, set, beer!
Ice-cold and refreshing beer is the unofficial welcome drink of tired professionals and a staple of any izakaya. As proud distributors of Engkanto Brewery, we went with a round of Engkanto’s best on classic Filipino flavors such as Ube Lager (intriguing with a sweet aftertaste), Sunbathing Owl (refreshing and citrusy), and Mango Hazy (light and fruity).
Small bites, big flavors
We eased in with three classic izakaya appetizers: Grilled Edamame (nutty and pairs well with beer), Ankimo (creamy and easy to eat), but out of the three, the standout was the Takowasa—fresh and perfectly chewy octopus paired with fresh wasabi that gives a short explosion of spiciness and a refreshing aftertaste.
Simply perfect
Kozara embodies a quintessential Japanese methodology in preparing its yakitori—perfection in simplicity. The chicken is delivered daily and fresh, then seasoned with artisanal Filipino salts such as Asin Budbud, and grilled attentively. Our favorites were Negima, Soriresu, Reba, Koshi Nankotsu, and Hatsumoto.
If you’re looking for more flavor, you can always request for their homemade tare (sauce).
Just One More…
Still hungry? Don’t miss out on Kozara’s kushiyaki offerings like Arabiki Sausage (coarse ground pork sausage), Ebi, and its standout, the Kaki—oysters marinated in butter and soy sauce, then grilled on their shells.
We also ordered an additional appetizer, Chuka Wakame, a refreshing seaweed salad that served as a great palate cleanser.
Close with a Shime
To wind things down, we shared a Grilled Onigiri and a bowl of Cold Soba served with green onions and fresh wasabi. Simple dishes that helped round out all the bold flavors of the night.
Always Room for Dessert
The Ginangang Split is a smoky, sweet, and a perfect encapsulation of Kozara as a dessert.
More than just good food, Kozara captures the heart of Japan’s after-work drinking culture. From the cold towels to the pacing, portions, and flavors, every detail feels thoughtful.
Cozy, honest, and quietly unforgettable, Kozara is located inside Varigoods at 644 Kasoy Street, Juna Subdivision. Doors open at 5:30 PM and are open for reservations. For bookings, call 0995 233 9018. Trust us—you’ll want to reserve your seat.
