Now in BGC: Soru Izakaya

Known for its arty plating of maki rolls, Soru Izakaya has been flocked by millennials who want content for their social media pages. But unlike restaurants and concepts that focused on just aesthetics, Soru Izakaya was able to balance both by offering eye pleasing dishes that also satisfy the taste buds. 

Hello, Soru Izakaya.

I have to admit, I was a bit pessimistic with this concept surviving the ever so competitive Manila food scene. As one of the few restaurants that offer relatively expensive dishes in Maginhawa, a neighborhood known for affordable grub, Soru Izakaya has a lot on its plate. But fast forward to 2018, it now has two branches with its newest one in Burgos Circle, Fort Bonifacio. 

I actually had no idea that it opened a new branch if I didn't search for Japanese restaurants around BGC as requested by my sister, the birthday celebrant.

We visited Soru Izakaya around 3 p.m. on a Sunday and we had the place all to ourselves till a small group of four entered half an hour after. 

We went with Tori Karaage (PHP190), Beef Misono Teppan (PHP240), Nori Tempura (PHP360, 5 pcs.) and two bowls of Chahan (PHP65). My mom went with Soru Lemonade (PHP85) while my sister got Kyuri Green Iced Tea (PHP85). I went with Coffee (PHP80) which I was pleasantly delighted to know they carry.

First served was my cup of coffee which was nothing special. Well, quite hard to expect something from it especially when it's not even part of the menu. 

I found the Tori Karaage slightly dry for my liking. I guess this is better enjoyed hot. It was waiting on the table for about 20 minutes as my companions arrived late. Taste-wise, it was something kids would enjoy with its cheesy flavor from torched cheddar and mozzarella cheese.

My mom's Beef Misono Teppan was a bit on the salty side. Think gyudon when ordering this dish. The thinly sliced grilled beef had similar texture and taste. 

This is best enjoyed with the mixed vegetables served on the side or with rice to balance its salty taste. 

The Nori Tempura was served about 10 minutes after the first dishes arrived so my sister was able to enjoy her all-time favorite Japanese dish while it was warm. And it tasted just like your usual tempura with a slight hint of nori (seaweed). 

Service was quite mediocre when we dropped by with the servers not smiling at all. But the complimentary Tiramisu (PHP220) won back some brownie points. 

I was surprised that they gave us a regular slice instead of those small sampler desserts they offer for free. And just like its to die for Matcha Cheesecake, this layered coffee fingers with cream cheese frosting dashed with cocoa powder and topped with whipped cream, blueberry and mint leaves was love. 

I realized during this visit that it's better to stick with Soru Izakaya's rolls as those taste so much better than its "warm" dishes. I'm not saying that the ones we had were bad. It's just that I had better dishes here.

Soru Izakaya is located at Burgos Circle, Bonifacio Global City, Taguig. (It's beside UCC.)