Restaurant Review: Ippudo Philippines

Ippudo Philippines started in 2008 in New York City and has since expanded to the Asia-Pacific region. "Here in the Philippines, with its own central kitchen dedicated to soup and noodle production, IPPUDO aims to dazzle Filipinos with its quality products, dynamic ambience and hospitable service. Using local products and infusing them with Japanese elements, IPPUDO does not compromise to ensure optimum food quality." Currently, Ippudo only has one branch in the country and it is strategically located at SM Megamall.

Image by Ippudo Philippines

The restaurant has ample space for diners. It can accommodate about 100 people. It is dimly-lit and air-conditioned. You have the choice to sit on the couch or share a communal table with other diners. It also has its own washroom for your convenience. In terms of design, it is very Japanese-inspired with lots of wood furnishings. There is an area of shelves lined with red and white Ramen bowls. Their staff are very courteous and accommodating, though quite busy, but are nonetheless knowledgeable about the food they serve.

The dishes they offer are truly Japanese - from ramen bowls to rice toppings to dumplings to salads and desserts. We ordered the Akamaru Shinaji Ramen, Tori Karaage (deep fried chicken), and the Karaage Bun. We also got some house blend bottomless iced tea. The ramen was really good - rich and tasty. The noodles were also firm to the bite (al dente). The Tori Karaage was yummy and tender as well. It is boneless and comes with a curry powder. It is perfect with Japanese white rice. Then there was the Karaage Bun, which is the Japanese counterpart of a chicken burger. It was really scrumptious as well. Lastly, their iced tea did not disappoint to even if it was Lipton-based. It was very flavorful and aromatic.

Tori Karaage

Akamaru Shinaji Ramen

Ippudo Philippines is perfect for families, young professionals, and groups of friends who love Japanese food, specifically Ramen. Budget needed is about PhP400 per person on average. They are open from 10:00 AM to 10:00 PM (Mondays to Sundays). They only accept walk-ins but do not allow take-outs and table reservations. You actually have to fall in line to eat (similar to Tim Ho Wan). Parking is available at the mall's parking building and nearby parking spaces.

RATING: 4 out of 5 STARS

Contact Details
Address: 3rd Floor Mega Fashion Hall, SM Megamall, Ortigas Center, Mandaluyong City
Contact No.: (632) 470-1837
Facebook: www.facebook.com/ippudoPH
Website: www.ippudoph.com

Note: Ippudo did not pay me for this review.

Til then...

xoxo Nash