Washoku de Azabu - San Jose del Monte

Rebranding is not often undertaken by restaurants. Washoku De Azabu recently went traditional to modern in the hopes of getting more patrons. With the leadership of Azabu’s Chef Toshi, who hails from Miyazaki Prefecture in Fukuoka, Japan, this new identity promises to elevate clients’ dining experience even more. Aside from the cozy and minimalist interiors, this place prides itself in its freshest and imported ingredients, and dishes plated beautifully by their chef.The new Azabu could not have come at a better time, as they will be celebrating its anniversary. In line with this, my media friends were invited for a special feast, which included Chef Toshi’s specialties and banner offerings. First to arrive was their Cobb Salad (Php an instagramable wonder, an art on a fine plate half filled with colorful crisp vegetables, fruits and blocks of cheese on thick sesame dressing. We also had Chef’s rendition of Chirashi Sushi (Php It had your usual mix of sashimi favorites like salmon and tuna plus a significant touch of uni and ikura on a spread of high quality Japanese rice. Go wild with this classic with lots of wasabi! Next came the Ebi Tempura Moriawase (Php which was a balanced serving of shrimp and vegetables, wrapped in well cooked batter. This wasn’t your typical greasy bite. The Mizutaki or Chicken Hot Pot (Php had to be prepared before your very eyes. This soup is reheated, unseasoned and spiced up by ground chicken balls for added texture. One, however, must mixed its meat with a vinegar-based ponzu sauce to reach its full flavor. New on the menu is the Foie Gras with Daikon (Php The exquisite combination of fattened goose liver and Japanese daikon radish, drizzled with balsamic reduction is something you shouldn’t miss! This one should be taken in one big savory bite. Now for the surprise, the Matcha Zanzai with Matcha Roll was served even if it was off the menu. It’s an endearing plate of fluffy cake, mochi balls and sweetened red beans. Intrigued yet? They are not easy to find but they are worth the trip. Go ahead and visit Azabu by Toshi at the second floor of BTTC Center, Ortigas Center corner Roosevelt Avenue, Greenhills, San Juan.

If Japanese Fusion cuisine is your thing, then Azabu by Toshi might be the restaurant you’re looking for. Foie gras with daikon. Formerly known as Washoku de Azabu, this restaurant made an overhaul of its menu recently to incorporate the dishes made by Chef Toshi. He is a old celebrated chef from Miyazaki Prefecture in Fukuoka, Japan. As a true blue Japanese Chef, one can expect authenticity in his dishes.

We were so hungry that I forgot to take pictures. The restaurant is on the second floor. Not as accessible to seniors as my parents and aunts. You would have to park in the basement. We ordered a lot and honestly the pictures look more delicious. The fried flatfish wasn't as crispy as it looks. So is the fried squid tentacles. The assorted sushi is okay though. I like the gyoza. They are delicious. The oysters were average. Tempura was okay.

Quite expensive. The photos in the menu were over the top. Portions were smaller. The taste is ok. The service is good too. Will I come again ??? I could, but there are better options out there.

Now I don't have to drive and squeeze into Little Tokyo to enjoy Japanese food. This place belongs to Seryna and others. Nothing like Tsukiji, but for citizens like me this is as good as it gets