Dining Snippets: Botejyu x Tyler’s Café x Nha Em
BOTEJYU
TAKOYAKI (P115 for 3 pcs)
Botejyu may be known for its okonomiyaki but it boasts of an extensive menu which offers variety to the most discerning of diners. Browsing through its menu brings about a satisfaction of its own as each glossy page features droolworthy photos of their fare. All the photos looked so temptingly delicious. One nice thing about their Robinsons Galleria branch is that they have eager servers ready to give suggestions which makes the decision making easier.
PREMIUM MOONLIGHT YAKISOBA (P375)
For my first meal, I opted for their Premium Moonlight Yakisoba, which seemed to contain all of the good things you find in an okonomiyaki; wherein the batter was simply traded in for some noodles. Generous servings of beef, pork, shrimp, and squid guarantee that each bite would be really tasty. The noodles ended up being quite dry so I decided to drizzle it with some okonomiyaki sauce (conveniently served as a condiment on all tables) as a quick cure.
PREMIUM MOONLIGHT OKONOMIYAKI (P360) + RICE SET (P90)
The Premium Moonlight Okonomiyaki was well cooked. Honestly, as long good Isauce is used, all okonomiyakis actually taste the same to me, no matter what their filling may be. The key is in how neat and compact each pancake is prepared and you’re all set. I easily get ‘suya’ when eating only okonomiyaki that I never finish one on my own. Fortunately, its rice set comes with really tasty clear soup and some kimchi to help refresh your palate.
AMIYAKI GRILLED PORK RICE BOWL (P345)
The Amiyaki Grilled Pork Rice Bowl was the standout dish for me as it featured perfectly marinated slices of pork in a sweetened soy sauce glaze that’s impossible to get tired of. An order comes with a side salad topped with a creamy sesame dressing and a bowl of their killer clear soup. I couldn’t resist ordering their Takoyaki as well. I had my eyes set on their sampler, as it features their different takoyaki flavors. However, I couldn’t finish 6 in a sitting (with a main dish), so I settled for their 3 pcs Original Takoyaki. No regrets in making this glutinous decision as each piece contains a decently sized octopus piece that’s not overstuffed with fillers.
Botejyu
2F Lower Veranda, Robinsons Galleria, EDSA cor Ortigas, Ugong Norte, QC
Dates of Visit: October 13, 2017, November 23, 2017, and December 12, 2017
TYLER’S CAFÉ
I’ve been raving to try Tyler’s Café for quite some time now since I’m a sucker for all-day breakfast concepts but I rarely find it convenient to visit Katipunan. I loved its minimalist and sophisticated vibe that simply invites one to spend the entire day there. Its food choices are a bit limited; and since it was a weeknight, I had to restrain myself from choosing from its caffeinated selection.
BACON AND EGGS (P285)
Its description promised a thick cut house cured bacon; but it’s considerably thinner than what you get from Wildflour and Poco Deli. To be fair, it is considerably cheaper, and comes with tasty garlic rice, and fluffy scrambled eggs. Its bacon is actually really tasty, but on the fatty side; so I didn’t really get to enjoy a lot of its meat.
Tyler’s Café
317 Katipunan Avenue, Loyola Heights, QC
Date of Visit: November 14, 2017 with Ton de Jesus
NHA EM
Nha Em is a relatively newcomer in Manila’s Vietnamese restaurant scene; having just opened its maiden branch late last year in SM Aura. However, it seems like there’s no slowing them down as they recently opened another branch in Podium.
PHO BO (P250 – Solo)
One good thing about their Pho is that they offer solo and sharing sizes. However, don’t underestimate the size of its solo bowl, as it’s enough to be shared by two if you pair it with other side dishes. Its broth was leaning towards the peppery side; however, its beef flavor is undeniable. It’s not the best pho out there, but it’s pretty decent bowl.
BANH XEO (P380)
The Banh Xeo provides a welcome respite in taste as it comes with the signature Vietnamese dipping sauce which marries a perfect blend of sweet tanginess. This thin crepe opens up to some shrimp and pork slices which pair amazingly with the sauce; but it’s not the easiest to roll by hand.
BO LUC LAC (P395)
I’ve always loved Bo Luc Lac, especially from Ba Noi. However, Nha Em easily takes the crown on this one as each cube of beef was cooked medium, had the perfect heat, tenderness, and juiciness to it. If you’re on a budget, this serves as a perfect alternative to wagyu cubes. I’d definitely return just to have another bite of this!
Nha Em
5F The Podium, 18 ADB Avenue, Ortigas, Mandaluyong City
Date of Visit: November 29 2017 with Lily Chua
