Going Japanese

I have a confession to make, I am a huge fan of Japanese dishes. My love for their meals was influenced by my dad who used to work for a Japanese company. Seeing and tasting a lot of free Japanese snacks back in the days moulded that appreciation.

In the Philippines, Cebu to be particular. There are a lot of Japanese restaurants - big and small joints, even hotels offers Japanese area in their buffet sets. But I'm going to break down my favourite places to eat within Cebu.

Photo taken from Nonki SM City Cebu

1. Nonki. Be it any branch, Nonki is the place to be if you want try all Japanese dishes there is. They're authentic, clean and flavourful. Price is a bit high but it's a good value for your money. They also serve one of the best sushis and sashimi in town and bento sets. Branches at SM City Cebu, Banilad Mandaue City and Jpark Hotel Mactan Cebu.

2. Ramen Yushoken. If you only want ramen for the day, then this is the best place to be. The ramen noodles are freshly made and the broth for your choice of ramen taste is so great, you'll end up forgetting about your worries once you have a bite. And they also offer other Japanese side dishes but mostly they're all about Ramen. Located at Oakridge Pavilion Banilad Mandaue City.

3. Mismukuno Teppanyaki. What can say, Teppanyaki be it Chicken or Beef is always a good choice. With Mismukuno Teppanyaki, they're teppanyaki dishes are served sauteed sprouts which makes it a really healthy choice. Their sushis and sashimi are also well textured. And their Gyodon is really good. Located on the 4th floor new wing of the Ayala Center Cebu.

4. Tonkatzu by Terazawa. Now, if you want all pork but in a Japanese setting then this is the place to be. The meal sets are amazing and they serve Japanese beers and it's also a very pretty place to dine in. Located at the lower level of the Ayala Terraces.

5. UCC Cafe. If you want authentic Japanese coffee with an ambiance of relaxed business, then UCC cafe is the place to be. Opens from 7a til 11p. It's one of my favourite place for coffee and cakes. I mean, no one will ever go wrong with coffees and cakes. Located at Ayala Center Cebu, near Marriott's garden block.

That sums up my favourite Japanese restaurants in the city but whichever one you choose to dine in around Cebu, always be assured that it's going to be a great Japanese experience. And there's a new fine dining Japanese Restaurant in Cebu which I still have to try but I don't think I'll be able to anything soon because of the location but we'll see.