For starters, Moriawase or assorted sashimi (P282.24, pictured above left) and California Maki (P126, pictured above right) were served. Moriawase consisted of raw salmon, tuna, squid, sea urchin, and crab sticks. I loved the fresh raw salmon which was sliced to just the right thickness. For some reason no one at our table dared to touch the urchin.
Next up were the Seafood Teppanyaki (P262.08, pictured above left) and Age Gyoza (P110.80, pictured above right). Seafood Teppanyaki was very flavorful. It consisted of shrimp, squid rings, scallops, fish, and mixed veggies like asparagus spears and leeks. The serving was kind of small though, I had the feeling that there were a lot of empty spaces on the dish. Age Gyoza is deep fried meat dumpling. There are five pieces per serving which is quite fair considering the price. Age Gyoza is very crunchy and meaty, served hot off the frying pan. We were served plain rice to go along with all the dishes but sad to say this Japanese restaurant doesn't use Japanese rice. It really was just plain and dry steamed rice. If it's something I learned from my food gigs at Spot.ph before, it's that IT MATTERS if a Japanese restaurant uses Japanese rice. At the very least they could use dinorado. Plain, dry rice just doesn't go well with Japanese dishes.
Yaku Japanese Grill's specialty, the Yaku Platter (P186.48, pictured above left) which is assorted yakitori, was served next along with Zuteki (P252, pictured above right) or Beef Tenderloin Teppanyaki. Yaku Platter contains five different yakitori -- from front to back: Gindara (fish), Butabara (pork), Asparamaki (asparagus), Uzura (quail eggs), Okura (okra), and Negima (chicken). The Gindara yakitori was divine. It was very soft and succulent. I actually find myself craving for it. Zuteki was very tender and tasty, my only complaint being the beansprouts served on the side were raw.
For dessert, we had Wasabi Ice Cream (P60.48, pictured above left) and Mixed Fruits (P60.48, pictured above right). Topped with fresh mango strips, the Wasabi Ice Cream was a tastebud tickler as it was hot (as in spicy) and cold at the same time. The Mixed Fruits' orange, apple, and watermelon slices were sweet and refreshing.I must commend the Yaku Japanese Grill staff for being very pleasant and accommodating throughout the event. They were more than happy to entertain my questions about the food that was being served and they seemed always ready to assist us.
If you're looking for something new to try at The Podium, Yaku Japanese Grill is one place to consider. The place is quite dim so it's rather conducive to dates and such.
Yaku Japanese Grill
3/F The Podium Mall
ADB Ave., Mandaluyong City
687-5368
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