Japanese cuisine never fails to amaze me especially when prepared expertly. The way they present dishes like intricate art on a plate, the technique and the freshness of each ingredient are the things that get me so excited. And even if Japanese restaurants are a dime a dozen in Manila nowadays, there are still those places that stand out because they are a cut above the rest. One of these places is Chibo Okonomiyaki.
They say you can now eat Osaka’s best Okonomiyaki in Chibo. Well, honestly, I haven’t been to Osaka so I can’t confirm this to be true but based on the positive feedback I’ve been hearing about this establishment, that just may be the case. This also happens to be my first Chibo Okonomiyaki experience (at S Maison).
Okonomiyaki is a Japanese-savoury pancake made with dough, tempura bits, cabbage, spring onions and red ginger. It is also mixed with meat or seafood depending on your preference. You cook this by grilling the ingredients on a large flat iron grill. They also flatten the shrimp head to make it crunchy.
Here’s one thing I can tell you, though… I’ve been to other Okonomiyaki spots around Manila and I can confidently say that Chibo is a great place to enjoy this dish.
Feast on the gastronomical delights of Chibo Okonomiyaki
Together with my foodie friends, I was able to try an array of Okonomiyaki at Chibo to the point of food coma. Hahaha! We were served a variety of really impressive sets which are a part of Chibo’s menu.
US Beef Tenderloin Steak
It may not look good in the picture but this baby was beautifully seared and nicely seasoned.
US Angus Beef Short Ribs
A crowd favorite and with good reason. Sliced thinly and tender.
Assorted Seafood in tuna, squid, scallops and prawns
Sea-ing and eating this makes me happy. Really! All my faves in one platter.
Now, let’s try this Chibo Okonomiyaki
There are scallops, prawn, pork and beef. How can this ever go wrong?
Next is this beautiful Shirayukihime or Snow White Princess
You’ve got ham, prawn, pork and cheese, topped with egg meringue. It’s not just visually appetizing… it tastes great, too! The meringue is fluffy and airy like eating an unsweetened cotton candy.
Care for some delicious noodles? This Buta Yakisoba with shrimp, pork and squid really hits the spot! Chibo Okonomiyaki makes their own noodles fresh daily.
When eating Okonomiyaki, use the Kote. This is the small flat stem-like spoon or spatula made of steel. You slice it like a pie, scoop it up and it eat from there. It is the Osaka way of enjoying Okonomiyaki.
Also, try the different sauces imported from Osaka: white sesame, salt, chili powder, soy sauce and wasabi to give your Okonomiyaki a deliciously different flavor profile.
Looks like this is the first of many more visits to Chibo Okonomiyaki. How about you? Have you tried Chibo already? Let me know your favorites so on my next visit, I can try them out as well.
Contact Details
2/L S Maison, Conrad Manila, Seaside Blvd. cor. Coral Way, Mall of Asia Complex, Pasay City
Instagram: @chibookonomiyakiph