Marufuku Japanese Restaurant: A Treasure Trove of Japanese Delights
SALMON UNI OHBA ABURI (P390)
Trying out Marufuku for the first time was a wonderful delight! Although it has yet to reach mainstream consciousness, the restaurant’s well-known enough to be consistently packed despite its secluded location.
KISU TEMPURA (P380)
Its extensive menu aims to satisfy all types of diners. It carries traditional Japanese fare that most Filipinos grew up exposed to, such as tempura, yakitori, and maki. However, it also carries items which are unique and would definitely pique your interest so much that you just can’t help but order them!
KAKI MOTOYAKI (P290)
The Kaki Motoyaki features a neatly plated row of scallops cooked in a light miso broth. These juicy scallops promise to deliver spoonfuls of heaven. Another stellar starter would be the Salmon Uni Ohba Aburi. This gorgeously plated appetizer features intricate and delicate layers of creamy uni and torched salmon, with a vibrant mint leaf as its base and a dollop of caviar on top. This beautiful dish is challenging to eat, as one can’t help but lose their poise and manners once its morsels crumble down. However, do try to taste all the layers together so you can appreciate how well each ingredient works harmoniously with each other.
MARUFUKU ROLL (P645)
Bearing the name of the restaurant, a dish can’t help but be held up to higher standards, as these are commonly considered as house specialties. Thus, we were ecstatic to try out the Marufuku Roll, which features prawn tempura rolls topped with ripe mangoes and unagi. Unfortunately, these rolls failed to live up to excitement as they were bland and were simply mediocre. The Kisu Tempura also failed to satisfy as it came with rock-hard batter. The Ebi Ika Yasai Kakiage (P430) is a far better tempura option.
BEEF YAKINIKU (P480)
Fortunately, the Beef Yakiniku was splendid! This lip-smacking delectable dish features thinly-sliced sukiyaki beef cooked in an addictive sweet and salty yakiniku sauce served on a hot stone bowl. The sliced garlic crisps add a wonderful kick to the dish!
SHAKE KAMEMESHI (P470)
The Shake Kamemeshi killed it when paired with the Beef Yakiniku; however, on its own, it was rather bland. I do love that it came with a lot of salmon slices and salmon roe, but this dish comes with a grueling half hour wait that you have to consider.
YAKITORI (P75/stick)
Like most skewers, the Chicken Yakitori also commands a long waiting time; however, this time, it’s actually worth it. Hefty chunks of chicken pieces are beautifully grilled. You have the option if you wish to just have the ‘shio’ or salt seasoning; or glaze it with teriyaki sauce. Opting for the latter gives you the perfect union of a charred smokiness and sweet stickiness. The Beef Tongue is also a must-try (opt for it salted).
TARAKO SUMIYAKI UDON (P550)
One of my favorite dishes in Marufuku would be the Tarako Sumiyaki Udon. The charcoal noodles are already tasty on their own; but to justify the hefty price tag, it also comes loaded with a medley of seafood, such as grilled prawns, de-shelled scallops and oysters, squid, and unagi!
Droolworthy Dishes: Tarako Sumiyaki Udon, Kaki Motoyaki, Chicken Yakitori (Teriyaki), Beef Tongue (Shio), Salmon Uni Ohba Aburi, Beef Yakiniku
Marufuku Japanese Restaurant
GF The Crescent Building, 29 San Miguel Avenue, Oranbo, Pasig City
Dates of Visit:
January 14, 2017 with Gwen Chuahiock, Howie Chuahiock, Tikay Yu, Mike Cruz, and Charlie Ledesma
January 28, 2017 with Wilson Chua, Lily Chua and Jared Chua
