After their 25th branch opening at Olympia, Makati (just right at the back of the Manila Peninsula hotel) SumoSam has opened another branch at the heart of Manila. This time its at the 4th level of SM Manila which is just right at the back of the infamous Manila City Hall, and also just a few more steps away form the walled Intramuros where my Alma Mater, Mapua Institute of Technology is located.
The branch is conveniently situated just a few steps away from the cinema area of SM Manila, so that means its another great dining choice for cinema lovers who want great Japanese cuisine.
I was totally thrilled to be invited to try out the food at the newest branch and a big plus was the pleasure of dining with its co-owner, celebrity-chef and Ernst and Young’s Entrepreneur of the Year 2012 awardee, MARVIN AGUSTIN.
But even before Marvin came in the restaurant, it was very obvious that I was already having sort of goosebumps especially when I got confirmation that he will indeed be showing up at the store. I actually even reserved a seat for him. Too bad he chose to seat at the middle portion of our group. But still, I ahd to move in beside him so I could get a shot with the guy, and interview him as well.
But before the interview details, let me tell you first about the place.
The store has the usual colors of Sumo Sam, but the designs are quite unique compared to the previous branches. What is evident is the sophistication yet simplicity. The venue, furniture, dining set, and decors are not that elaborate in design and decors but you'll immediately feel comfortable and not that intimidated.
All the different types of dishes came out from the kitchen one by one, and were placed on our tables. Each was mouth-watering and truly appetizing in presentation. It was added with the right touch of food artistry that made the meals more of a delightful feast for all the senses.
Of course, as a foodie, the first impulse was to take out our trusted camera, and take pictures of the food from all angles. Top, side, left, right and all degrees of angles you can think of.
The Ebi Tempura has that flavor I would highly recommend to my friends. Tempura would always be a part of our order for every Japanese restaurant we set foot, and we find the one at Sumo Sam a great choice indeed.
If its a choice between green tea or red tea, I would often choose green. So next time, I will try the red one just to see if there's a difference in taste. The funny thing about these teas is they all taste different for every restaurant, but I love the one they served us at SumoSam.
I loved the Salmon Sashimi! To bad my friends also do, so that means less for me because I always seems to be the last one to grab this tasty treat.
I've been eating California Maki Rolls but this one is the "prettiest" one I've seen so far, and tasty too.
Who doesn't love anything wrapped in bacon? The Bacon Dory combines my love for bacon, and the healthy option of seafood dish.
The Dynamite Roll has the right spice enough to give you the "Umph" for the day. Washed it away with a drink of green tea, but continued to bite more until it was all gone.
The Las Vegas Roll would be something I would gamble on. I would definitely put on stake one of my favorite gadgets if this one doesn't make you drool in delight.
Rice would always be our staple food. I can't seem to get full without it. The Japanese Fried Rice brought out some fascinating flavors that even perked our dining experience. "Kanin pa lang, Ulam na!" It goes well with every viand and on its own.
SumoSam's Pride Salad was really something to be proud of. Mangoes and shrimps are among my favorites so the inclusion of these in the salad truly made my day.
Wow! The Chicken Teriyaki was a favorite. It was my first and last bite because I wanted to keep the amazing taste in my mouth before I end my lunch for the day. I definitely ordered more of this the next time I went to another, much closer, SumoSam branch. Though the serving is a bit small for its price, the taste was exceptional.
The Beef Teppan scores favorably. I'm not really a lover of beef unless its a steak because its the hardest to chew when not cooked properly. The beef here passes with high marks.
The Spicy Tuna Salad was not as good as the SumoSam's Pride Salad but I would gladly order this one if in case the latter was not available.
The popsicle- like ice cream (I got to try the Banana Choco) was a great dessert to end the meal. I'm betting this will be a great attraction for the kids, and another take-out option where people can walk-in, order some of these ice cream, and stroll in the mall while eating this sweets.
Me and my friends really enjoyed our dining experience at SumSam SM City Manila. Mister Marvin Agustin shared some interesting stories about the business, his celebrity career, and even his love life. But since this is not a showbiz blog, I would reserve that to our chat room discussions instead...hehehe.
Thank you SumoSam for having us. I already went to another branch located in SM MegaMall together with my entire family (wife and three kids) and again it never failed to please our appetite. I would love another opportunity soon.
Know more about Sumo Sam online and experience the same fascination!
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