For the past ten years, Fūjin Izakaya Gunawarman has been a place where nights often stretched longer than planned. Glasses were raised without needing a reason, familiar faces slowly became friends, and friends somehow grew even closer. For many of us, this place became a second home. Aside from the space, it was the memories created together that made it feel special and personal to everyone who walked through the door.
A Decade of Kanpai
If there’s one sound we’ll always remember, it’s kanpai かんぱい echoing across the room. We first opened as Fūjin Teppanyaki & Japanese Whisky at a time when Japanese whisky was just beginning to rise in Jakarta’s drinking scene. As tastes evolved, so did we. The name later changed to Fūjin Japanese Teppanyaki & Sake, introducing a full lineup of sake and an All You Can Drink program that ran for almost five years.
Today, we’re known as Fūjin Izakaya, a concept rooted in the warmth and openness of izakaya culture. Through every name change and shift, the spirit behind every toast stayed the same. The way people gathered round and enjoyed the night together never changed.
A Decade of Japanese Soul Food
Our journey began with casual Japanese-style teppanyaki, bringing dishes that later become favorites like Chicken Nanban and Saikoro Steak. As time passed, the menu continued to grow without losing its roots. A big turning point came in 2021 when Chef Rui Yamagishi moved to Jakarta and reimagined the menu into what it is today. Fūjin expanded beyond teppanyaki, welcoming robatayaki, ramen and sushi to the list. It was the Ramen Night event that marked the start of this shift, when guests began to feel how the kitchen was evolving along with them.
Ten years on, some guests came in knowing exactly what they wanted. Others explored the menu dish by dish. And many found comfort in flavors that felt honest, warm and familiar.
A Decade of Collaboration
Fūjin Izakaya Gunawarman was never meant to stay still. Over the years, we welcomed ideas from near and far by working with guest chefs and bartenders from across Indonesia and around the world. Through collaborations and special events, each moment was a shared experience that brought us more excitement into the space.
These reminded us why we do what we do. That there’s always room for learning and connecting with people who have the same love of food, drinks and community.
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Thank you for being part of this chapter at Fūjin Izakaya Gunawarman. For every visit, every toast and every memory shared with us, we’re truly grateful for each and every one of you.
While this outlet takes its rest, the spirit continues. You can still find us at Fūjin Izakaya Gafoy, Mall Kelapa Gading where the stories carry on.
We’ll see you again, just in a different place.
