Turning Japanese, I was pleased!

Alexis Yap
Lex in the city

A FEW weeks after my birthday this year, my friend Shanna Lopez sent me an awesome birthday present. They were gift certificates to SumoSam, a modern Japanese restaurant conveniently located at the Ayala Center Cebu. I was excited to eat some good Japanese food and I knew SumoSam would do just the trick. Many have already told me about their delicious food so I knew I wasn’t going to be disappointed.

I ordered the Squid Head Karaage (which to me is the Japanese version of calamari), the Uni Sushi (sea urchin), the Sizzling US Beef, and the ever-trusty Katsudon (breaded pork chop in sweet soy over Japanese rice). Uni has always been a favorite of mine and one might say it’s the same wherever you get it. My answer is, “No”. Its freshness is most important and what got served was fresh and delicious indeed!

Most of all, I was crazy over the Katsudon. Although I must admit this choice is for the “beginners” , it never fails to make me happy. But the SumoSam Katsudon was extra special! The crusty outer layer is a perfect prelude to the tender, juicy meat inside.

Not to mention the perfect blend of the sweet soy sauce and the sautéed onions over the breaded pork chop that was topped on the steaming hot Japanese rice slightly drenched in its sauce… Oh, it was just divine!

After dinner, the manager came with a plate of heavenly strawberry cheesecake. And you know how I feel about cheesecake! It was perfect!

It was a delightful meal indeed but what made it extra special is the impeccable service of its staff, very attentive and always with a big smile on their faces. Those guys really aim to please. I am looking forward to my next SumoSam visit. There is just so much good food there I have yet to try.

Thank you, Shanna for such a wonderful birthday present. The experience was awesome!