FOOD - Turning Japanese in Cebu

Given the huge number of Japan tourists in Cebu, it follows that there is an abundance of Japanese restaurants to cater to their longing of Japanese cuisine.  The more famous ones are Nonki/ Kagura (along AS Fortuna) and Yakiniku Tajimaya/ Banri (along Crossroads Banilad).  There are of course the so-called "underground or really authentic"...and one of the is Ofuku-San.

I have actually ignored this restaurant for almost 3 years due to its location and rusty look.  The fact that it's been there for more than a decade with minimal (if not no) renovations is a testament to that!  But in our search for better Japanese restos, we gave this a try and man, where we in for a big surprise...

Interior very much reflects its exterior.  It is old and rusty which in a way that it reflects its authenticity.  This is actually a good selling point but doesn't really spell premium which is how its products are priced.  But these are all aesthetics...now for the food...

As mentioned, price is on the high side but the serving size and taste justifies the cost.  I had the Inaka Barasushi and Hot Inaniwa Udon set which is priced at P370.  As you can see, serving is generous and the taste...really authentic and good.

My wife in the meantime had the Ebi Furai Bentoh.  A combination of Breaded Tiger Prawns, Chicken Teriyaki, Age Deshi Tofu and Rice.  All priced at P360.

If there was a letdown, it's their Japanese rice.  I wouldn't even go to the level of considering it as one.

All in all, this is one Japanese resto we would eat over and over again and which I would highly recommend.  But stick to their noodles as this is their specialty.  Not sure of their sashimis though...but I would guess they are good also.

Ofuku-San is located along the chain of restaurants of Gaisano Country Mall at the GF.

FOOD - Portland

One thing I love about Portland, other than shopping tax free, is the chance to enjoy good local food.  I have been to the famous and expensive restaurants such as the likes of Jack's Crawfish, Ruth's Chris Steak House, Picnic House and 23 Hoyt among others but for some reason, it doesn't satisfy my craving for local food.  So I made it a point to go where majority of the locals go...

BURGERS...FIVE GUYS

Whenever I think of US food, first thing that comes to my mind is "Burgers".  So when I asked a friend of mine where the best burger in Portland is, without hesitation his response was Five Guys.  I was like huh?

I was told that the establishment name was derived on the history of its owners.  Just five guys who thought about opening a joint that offers the best burgers in town.  Hmmmm...now only if putting up a business is this simple.

Don't let its name fool you though.  This establishment has won numerous awards as the best burger in town and for good reason.  If their perfectly grilled burgers is not enough, you have the option to choose as many toppings as you wish.  And free peanuts!!!

One thing I found weird (no surprise here...it's Portland!) was the choice of a single or double patty...at the same price.  But heck, I sure am hungry so a double patty for me please!  And oh, they claim to offer less calories than other burgers...


FOOD CART...NONG'S KHAO MAN GAI

Another staple part of Portland's food industry is its food carts.  You have a plethora of choices ranging from Korean, Chinese, Japanese, Mexican, etc.  But one food cart stands above them all...Nong's Khao Man Gai.


Food cart is headed by Nong Poonsukwattana who not only is the boss, but order taker as well.  Her cart has won Portland's best food cart and continue to be one of the more if not most lined up carts in the city.


Best and most popular dish is obviously the name of her store.  Khao Man Gai chicken.  I was surprised that for something so simple, it just packs a lot of flavor.

You know it's good Thai food when Thai people love it...and my Thai friends just can't get enough of this dish.

There are actually a lot more like Voodoo donuts but unfortunately, I had the tonsils back then so no sweets for me.  Oh well, probably next year again if I get the chance :)