The Yabu Experience

I have heard of Yabu from workmates saying this should be on top of my list when I head out to the big city. When I say big city, I mean away from Cavite. Last June, I finally stumbled myself in Japan. Killing time before the Pentatonix concert with my good college buddy, Azzuly. 
The branch we dined in was at Robinsons Magnolia in Quezon City. The place was packed when we arrived. Both Azzuly and I wanted to get a spot inside to get the best feel and of course to snap photos.  It was hard to find a table at around 2pm and it was a weekday! Speaks a lot about the quality of food they offer. We landed on a better seat inside after I asked if we could be seated inside. Check out the manga looking collage work on the wall! It truly helps the place become more casual. They have a good variety of sake available as well.

FTW! Food Tip #1: All these food tripping has made me a smarter consumer, don’t be afraid to ask. 
FTW! Food Tip #2: I also even check the menu option first before deciding if I’d truly dine in. 
Once seated, the assigned staff will bring you a mortar and pestle with a variety of sesame seeds. You can add the Tonkatsu sauce to your liking. I grounded mine really good and the aroma was filling up the air. 
Upper right to left: Miso soup, tartar and soy sauce, Japanese Rice, some pickled veggies and fruits. Then the main attraction, The Hire & Seafood Katsu Set which is a piquant mix of pork and seafood. Hire, Black Tiger Prawn, Cream Dory, Scallop with Eggplant & Pepper.

Highlight: Loved how crunchy the coating was considering that this is a seafood set. The protein remained quite juicy and flavorful specially the prawn. 

Lowlight: Both my companion and I thought that the scallop was rather funky.
I chose the Rosu Set which is 3/4 inch-thick pork loin with a sliver of glistening fat trimming its edges and deep fried to a crisp golden perfection thanks to panko breadcrumbs. 

Highlight: Crunchy, juicy pork tenders! Ugh!
You get unlimited rice and coleslaw refills which we gladly took advantage of! I loved the coleslaw and how it went so well with the Goma Sauce they have at each table. We stayed for what seemed like almost an hour and a half to fully maximize the unlimited option. Oh the Filipino and their penchant for unlimited food servings!
What a great place to dine, laugh and just wait until you collapse from food coma! One of the best one yet. The price ranges from 350-500 + 5% service charge. The price is the least of your worries, it was so good that I wish I could come back for some more.

Yabu
Lower Ground Floor, Robinsons Magnolia
New Manila, Quezon City
Contact Number: (02) 961-4975
Website: Yabu.ph