Before watching Lady Gaga’s concert last May we went to Mall of Asia for dinner. Deb asked me where I wanted to eat. I asked her if the Japanese restaurant I ate at when Mall of Asia was newly opened was still around. She excitedly said, “Yes, Tanabe is still open!” To say I was shocked was an understatement. Some more popular restaurants have already closed shop and they were still open. Their staying power is a testament to their good Japanese food.
I haven’t been to Mall of Asia in a loooong time that’s why I was surprised to see a ferris wheel behind the mall.
I didn’t feel like eating a heavy meal so I ordered 3 appetizers we could all share.
agedashi tofu P180
I’ve been in a tofu-love phase that’s why I ordered two very similar dishes. Both were delicious but the tofu steak had a little edge with a more flavorful sauce.
tofu steak P200
It’s weird but I don’t eat sashimi or any raw fish but when it’s slathered with spicy mayonnaise I love it. This spicy tuna sashimi isn’t on their menu but it should be. It’s one of the best versions I’ve tried. The spice level was spot on and there wasn’t too much mayonnaise. The tuna was very firm and fresh too.
spicy tuna sashimi P320
Deb ordered the oden which was made with egg, tofu and fish cake in a sweetish broth. I’ve never had it before and I really liked it. It was specially good when eaten with the spicy yellow mustard.
oden P350
I loved the presentation of the cold soba noodles.
zaru soba P280
We teased Pat with her very common order of beef slices on rice.
gyu don P420
Common or not it was really good so I don’t blame her for her choice. If only I can eat rice I would have loved to order this too.
The food of Tanabe hasn’t changed from the first time I ate their many years ago. It’s still as good and consistent. The portions are fair and the prices were reasonable. No wonder they remain open to this day.
Tanabe’s menu
Tanabe Japanese Restaurant
SM Mall of Asia, Entertainment Mall, Seaside Blvd
Manila Bay Reclamation Area, Pasay
telephone: 556-0360
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