Nihonbashi Tei

I have a fondness for Japanese cuisine. My love affair started with its tuna (maguro) sashimi. I like the simplicity of its dishes but are oh, so flavorful. 

Over the holiday, we had a lovely staycation at the Diamond Hotel. When dinner time came, we opted to go out, take a stroll (although I insisted we drive) but the hubby won, so we searched on foot. Initially, I wanted ramen so I was searching Ukokkei through foursquare for directions. But as we walked just a few meters from the hotel, we were greeted by the savory sign of Nihonbashi Tei. 

Our friends have raved about its sister branch (Arnaiz Ave., Makati) but we haven't found the time to eat there. So, this seemed like destiny.  Hihihi.

Now, don't be deceived by its "unsavory" looking menu (it feels like it has seen far too many hands and better days). And if you're a non-smoker, ask to seated somewhere else because the entire restaurant is one freaking smoking area. Most people who dine are cigar-smoking Japanese nationals with Filipino colleagues or friends. We saw some earnestly conducting business while dining at the Japanese-style dining area.

We got transferred to one of the VIP Rooms. Yay! We were able to eat in peace, at a leisurely pace and without so many eyes looking at the amount of food we stuffed ourselves in. 

The largest chunk of tuna sashimi I've ever been served! (P160)

Fried Gyoza (P

This katsudon fed two people.

Seafood Ramen. Oishi!

All these for only P918 pesos. So, for casual Japanese dining, try Nihonbashi Tei. It's easy on the pocket but big on taste.

Nihonbashi Tei

483 Pedro Gil St Ermita, Manila 

(02) 708-2807 

 

1030 Arnaiz Ave., San Lorenzo 

Makati City

(02) 889 9733

Xx

Sheng

Hokkaido Ramen Santouka

Lately, I am all about finding the best ramen in town. I didn't know ramen tastes so much better until I've tried the likes of Ukkokei and Mitsuyado Sei-men.

A few days ago, we've decided to give Hokkaido Ramen Santouka a road test at the new Glorietta Mall. It's a new player in the ramen-obssessed metropolis. I must say that it's not bad. 

 I should have come with an empty stomach so I would enjoy the serving more. Truth be told, I have already stuffed myself with noodles at an office celebration. Nonetheless, I ate with gusto. 

Santouka Set Meal (P480)

The set meal was served with salad and kimchi. A bit odd. But it complemented well with the overall flavor. 

Soft tofu.

Chicken gyoza (P180)

So far, the gyoza is the best I've ever tasted. It doesn't have the oiliness that comes with the other fried versions.

Hot tea

When it comes to Japanese teas, I prefer it hot than the cold one. 

Am not a fan of cold teas; didn't know what got into me when I ordered this.

 Serving-wise, Santouka is on the small side but it's packed with all-yum goodness.

Miso Ramen

Hokkaido Ramen Santouka
G/F Glorietta 4 (across SM/Forever 21)
Ayala Center, Ayala Ave., 
Makati

XX

Sheng

The tenderest loin is at Saboten

Lately, I have this compulsion to eat everything that's Japanese cuisine. My first love really is sashimi. Maybe it's rooted from my childhood memories of eating kinilaw (fresh tuna in vinegar and cucumber) on weekends. That was the usual fare.

And then my palate got introduced to the explosion of flavors of ramen. And the difference in provenance puts a spin to its taste. And then, Yabu came along. Suddenly, Katsu is no longer just one of the dishes in a Japanese cuisine. It has become a specialty in the Filipino palate. Of course, I went and checked it out. 

Am not a gourmand but I do know how to appreciate good food. I also do not impose my taste on others. But I get excited about sharing my fondness for certain types. When about a month ago Saboten opened, the hype and fuss that came with it are astounding. 

Uncharacteristically, it took me a while to brave the crowd. Until two Sundays ago. Tyrone and I had a long leisurely late lunch. When the belly is empty, anything is usually palatable. But I kid you not, it's not the case here. 

At four in the afternoon, you would think getting a table is easy. But no. We were wait-listed. About 20 minutes later, we were shown our table. Ah, the thrill of anticipation.
 
Once seated, the first activity to keep your hands busy is to grind the sesame seeds for the dip/sauce. 

Sesame seeds for the dip/sauce.

 

 While waiting for the main course, you can feast on a cabbage salad.

Refillable.

It is yummiest when paired with sesame dressing. Scout's honor. I didn't know cabbage can be really this good. The secret is all in the dressing.

Cabbage Salad dressings: Citrus and Sesame

Or you can munch on pickles. Refillable, too.

Now, the main course. Truth be told, we chose to order its original -- the signature menu.  The tenderloin set has 3 sizes: Small (P375), M (P395) and L (P425)

Large size.

Small size.

 Any order comes with a cup of rice (refillable) and miso soup (refillable). House Tea is also provided should you want it. You can take it hot or cold. 

I think it's wise not to order dessert or another main course if you order this set because it's really filling. The cabbage salad alone takes up a lot of belly space. But it's hard to say no to it naman kasi nga masarap. 

I must say that the pork (katsu) is the tenderest that I have ever tasted. It's love at first bite. Flavor is very subtle; it makes you want to chew leisurely to savor the taste. That good. In fact, two nights later am back with Mara who eats there on average, at least once a week.

In a few weeks of operation, it already claimed the number 1 spot in Spot.ph Top 10 Tonkatsu. So, don't just take my word for it.

If you're curious check it at the G/F Serendra Piazza, Bonifacio Global City, Taguig.

XX

Sheng