Tokyo’s cocktail scene made a quick stop in Makati

For one evening, Manila traded boarding passes for bar stools as Tokyo’s celebrated cocktail culture landed in Makati

Some drinking experiences are worth hopping on a plane for. But on a recent evening in Makati, guests got a taste of Tokyo’s celebrated cocktail scene without leaving the city.

Through a collaboration between Visa and Maya Black, Japanese bartender Kyoka Ogawa took over Problem Child for a one-night-only guest shift, drawing in Manila’s mix of media personalities, creatives, and cocktail enthusiasts.

Known for her work at one of Japan’s most acclaimed bars, Kyoka served a menu of signature cocktails that showcased the precision and creativity Japanese bartending has become known for. Seats for guest shifts like these are often hard to come by abroad, making the evening a welcome treat for local cocktail fans.

Beyond the drinks, the event also highlighted how Manila’s food and beverage scene continues to grow. International collaborations and guest shifts have become increasingly common in recent years, giving local audiences access to some of the region’s most respected talents while putting the city firmly on the radar of the wider hospitality industry.

As the night went on, guests stayed on for an intimate after-party, where conversations flowed as freely as the cocktails. It brought together members of Manila’s lifestyle, hospitality, and creative communities—many of whom rarely find themselves in the same room at the same time.

The evening also reflected a growing appetite for experiences over things. These days, people are just as interested in access, whether to a sought-after restaurant, a visiting bartender, or a unique cultural moment as they are in travel itself.

For those who made it to Problem Child that night, it was a rare chance to experience a slice of Tokyo’s bar culture right in the heart of Makati, even if only for a few hours.

Follow Maya on socials for more experiences.