Now Open: Tsuta, Michelin-Starred Ramen

Tsuta has been one of the most anticipated brands this 2017 by food enthusiasts, or more specifically by ramen aficionados. I fall under both categories and I can't help but salivate whenever I read reviews on Tsuta's signature and Michelin-starred ramen. Just picturing its rich broth with truffle oil makes me uneasy. I just have to try it as soon as it lands here in Manila. And finally, I did. 

Konnichiwa, Tsuta!

Tsuta Ramen is no stranger to those who frequent Tokyo. As the first ramen shop worldwide to be awarded the prestigious Michelin Star, Tsuta has become a destination for good ramen. 

Tsuta is opening in Manila!

The world's first Michelin-starred ramen shop is finally coming to Manila! And it is opening just in time for Christmas. 

Konnichiwa, Tsuta!

Tsuta is one of the most talked about ramen shops since 2015 when it earned a prestigious Michelin star. The very first in its category to earn such recognition, it has drawn so much attention that lining up at 6 a.m. whereas the store opens at 11 a.m. became normal. 

First Bite: Qiwellness Living Teahouse + Bathhouse

They say that time flies so fast when you are having fun. I believe in that as I still cannot get over the fact that R and I have celebrated our first anniversary a few weeks back. I still clearly remember our first few dates and how we became more and more comfortable around each other. But enough of the mushiness as this entry is all about my degustation experience in Qiwellness Living Teahouse + Bathhouse.

Hello, Qiwellness Living Teahouse + Bathhouse.

I spotted a deal in Deal Grocer while looking for the perfect (and romantic) anniversary gift for R. Since it’s hard to buy him an actual gift, I figured he’d appreciate something we'd experience and enjoy together. And so why not a nice dinner with a beautiful view? 

I instantly purchased two coupons (priced at PHP1.950 each) of Qiwellness Living's Yin Yang degustation after reading good reviews about this place.Reservation was also a breeze as the customer relations person replied to my email in less than 24 hours. Qiwellness has already delighted me prior to my dinner. And on the night of our dinner, we were treated like VIPs. <3

The place does not have a screaming signage so it could be a challenge to find this place if you do not have Waze. (So download it now!)

We were asked to wait for a bit outside while the guard radioed the staff inside that we have arrived. In a few minutes, the big red door opened and we were welcomed with a gong. (And I meant that literally.) 

We were seated right next to the view of Taal. We would have loved it even more if we could see it. But it was too dark when we got there. Oh well.

It was so windy that night that I was literally shivering. I was barely saved by the complimentary lovely pink and floral tea. 

After 20 minutes or so, our first dish arrived and it was Pine Tree-Smoked Clams with Tofu Skin and Paprika. 

It was a delightful starter spoon. The flavors were not overwhelming yet you could definitely taste the freshness of the clams. It balanced well with the tofu and paprika.

Next served was a plate of complimentary signature bread and salted butter. And I loved it. The bread was glutinous and was lightly seasoned making you whet your appetite even more. 

Love at First Bite: Nadai Fujisoba

Random date nights (on weeknights) are the best. It’s a nice break from work and preparing dinner at home. R and I hardly have those lately so it was refreshing when he suggested that we eat out last week. And it was perfect as I just checked a list of restaurants I wanted to visit along high street. One of the restaurants I was eying was…

Nadai Fujisoba.

The cute soba and udon restaurant was half full when we arrived. Since R was hungry, we hurriedly ordered O-Ebi Ten Mori Soba (PHP260) and Niku Fuji Soba (PHP260). We also got Sobacha Pudding (PHP80) which the server initially described to be made of soba but it was tea pudding.

Service was very quick as our food was served within the 5 minute mark. I was impressed.

R’s cold noodles was served with two pieces of tempura and a cup of some sort of watered down soup which the server suggested to be mixed with the remaining dipping sauce and drink it like tea. It was said to help blood circulation. Not sure if it’s true but… okay!

Second Bite: Haru Sushi Bar and Restaurant

I’m so thankful that I could visit Kapitolyo anytime I want. I witness it bloom from a quiet residential area to a busy foodie district. I still can’t say I conquered Kapitolyo as every time I’m just a restaurant or two away, a bunch of restaurants open! (I’m not complaining though.) Last Saturday, I was supposed to go on a food trip with E but my tummy didn’t want to cooperate so we ended up having a quick lunch at Haru.

Hello, Haru!

Haru is one of my favorite restaurants in Kapitolyo. Charming décor and delicious food is always a winning combo!

E’s assorted sushi

Since it was quite warm that day, I opted to get Zaru Soba (PHP180), Seafood Teppanyaki (PHP335), Sake Sashimi (PHP308), and Guyabano Shake (PHP84). E went with a bowl of ramen and a plate of assorted sushi.

My salmon sashimi was served first; and as before, it was love. Thick cuts of fresh salmon… it was heavenly!

Colleagues’ Choice: Watami

It’s always fun to bond with colleagues outside the office. You get to know them better and you get to freely talk about other things without feeling guilty of slacking off. And since one of my officemates will be leaving soon, we decided to have a team dinner. After a few suggestions here and there, we decided to dine at Watami.

Hello, Watami.

I was super hungry when I got there with one of my officemates who happen to live in the same area. Due to lack of self control, I ordered right away. I went with: Watami Salad (PH255 for half), Salmon Irodori (PHP195), Cold Soba (PHP225) and Shochu (PHP150).

The Shochu arrived first and it looked like water. Upon sniffing, I could definitely tell that it’s alcohol. It was pretty strong too.

The Watami Salad and Salmon Irodori were served next.

I noticed that the salad’s meant for sharing as it was served with tongs but… no. *sharing no likey* (Kidding! But I really didn’t share that night.)