By Dino Datu
WHAT started out as a favorite hangout and dining destination for a young couple has now turned into a bustling enterprise. Nommu, Japanese for “to drink,” is known as a cozy drinking spot along Tomas Morato that serves Japanese fusion food. Their menu, a creative mixture of Japanese and Filipino bar chow, is a hit among young professionals who want to enjoy their drinks with some Japanese food prepared with a Filipino touch. The food, ambiance and drinks were so good, couple Angelo and Natasha Reyes became regulars. Nommu was such a hit with the couple, they decided to take over operations a few years ago when the previous owner put it up for sale. Neither Angelo nor Natasha had prior experience in restaurant operations but both knew they had a good thing on their hands and decided to jump in.
Knowing fully well what customers want from being former customers themselves, the new owners put their ideas into action and continuously improved on all facets of the bar and restaurant. After a few short years, their cozy bar and restaurant has grown so much that together with some friends and family (all regulars of the Morato branch), Nommu Metrowalk was born. Their second branch, now bigger and better, offers the same great food and drinks.
A few favorites of mine are their Pork Sisig Roll, sisig-stuffed and topped maki drizzled with their special Japanese mayo. The Japanese-style Tokwa’t Baboy, a local classic made better by using Japanese ingredients, is great for sharing and perfect with a cold beer or with any of their signature cocktails. For those craving for some purely Japanese fare, try the Chicken Teriyaki Don, crispy chicken glazed with sweet and savory teriyaki sauce. It is probably the best chicken teriyaki I’ve had, ever. For those who’ve had a bit to drink, the Chili Mabu Tofu Ramen would be great to wake your taste buds up. Speaking of drinks, while most Japanese restaurants limit their list to beers and some sake, Nommu gives diners and drinkers even more choice. Best-sellers like the Lychee Blossom Sangria and Sensei’s Passionate Mojito are expertly concocted, taking Asian flavors and fusing them with classic cocktails.
For those who like their drinks but are tired of having them with the usual bar food, Nommu offers creative version of familiar favorites.
Nommu is at Metrowalk, Pasig and Tomas Morato, Quezon City. You can reach them at their Facebook page—Nommu Restobar and Instagram—@nommubar.
