Tonkatsu by Terazawa is the brainchild of Japanese chef and restauranteur Akinori Terazawa who vowed to make Tonkatsu like no other when he first opened his first restaurant in Japan. "Tonkatsu is one of the favorite feasts families in Japan indulge and because of that, I took the challenged of making the best Tonkatsu in town."- Chef Terazawa said.
Tonkatsu by Teraza is conveniently located in Greenbelt 2 and has an al fresco area for those who want to chill out and drink sake and other Japanese beers.
Inside, there's table set-up similar to those in Japan and izakaya. I love this area of the restaurant because you can see what's going on inside the kitchen.
Of course, Japanese paper lamps are de riguer or maybe a Japanese restaurant is not complete without these lovely lamps. Its pleasing to the eyes and makes the dining experience much more memorable.
Chasoba Salad. A nice appetizer to begin your meal. I was surprised to note the burst of flavors from this salad. We, Filipinos are all familiar with hefty salads and may be fooled by the quantity of this but I assure you, this salad will prepares your palate that you will look forward to what's next. This is a light salad, by the way. Perfect for the figure and health-conscious.
Iberico Katsu. Okay, this is not very Japanese such as the popular Rosu and Hire. In fact, Iberico is also known as "Pata Negra" and comes from a special breed of pigs raised in the south and southwest of Spain. These pigs are fed with barley, maize and are allowed to roam around in the forest to eat acorns, thyme, rosemary and mushroom (and maybe other herbs), thus making them the healthiest pigs on the planet. It just make sense that the pigs are flavorful already because of their unique diet.
A set of Iberico Katsu comes with miso soup, rice and shredded cabbage. There's an unlimited serving of rice and cabbage. ;)
What I like with the Iberico Katsu is its distinct taste that really sets it apart from Rosu and Hire. But then, knowing the special diet of Iberico pigs, its no wonder that the flavor of herbs is a big factor when it comes to taste. And did I mention that its very tender also?
Green Tea Cake. Its a layer of meringue and green tea chiffon cake. Tastes good.
Overall dining experience at Tonkatsu by Terazawa is two thumbs up. We also note that the servers are cheerful and knowledgeable with the menu.
Tonkatsu by Terazawa
Greenbelt 2, Makati City
Other branches -
Lucky Chinatown Mall
Solenand 1, Nuvali
Ayala Center, Cebu