Saboten Philippines: The Best Tonkatsu in Manila and The Jumbo Hiroshima Oyster

Saboten Philippines, with branches in Glorietta and Serendra is said to have the Best Tonkatsu in Manila by some food enthusiasts with its "Original Taste of Tonkatsu". A lot of Manila Food Bloggers have written about their blog review of Saboten the moment it opened its door here in our country. Most of them have written glaring praises and I couldn't blame them because truth be told - I am one of the believers.

There are numbers of Japanese restaurants in Manila that specializes in katsu and I have few favorites. Recent visit to Saboten in Glorietta 5 immediately thread its way on top of my list.

If like myself, you are a big fan of natural light when dining in a restaurants at day time, Saboten's branch at Glorietta 5 do not disappoint. The floor-to-ceiling glass wall in front of the restaurant gives way to the beautiful light to come in - making the contemporary interior design of the place illuminates.

However, for those who prefer a secluded and more private nook while feasting on their favorite dishes at Saboten, the other part of the restaurant will provide it so. 

It was my first time at Saboten since previous decision was tainted with the fact that the long lines to brave may just be another fad. But my friend Euge knows me all too well and dropped the secret code Jumbo+Oyster on his invite. Next thing I know, I was already marveling at the impeccable impressiveness of food at Saboten.

Just like the usual Katsu place we all are used too, condiments are readily available in every table. A mini bowl of sesame seeds are given once you place your order.

All set meal at Saboten includes a band of appetizers comprised of shredded cabbage, pickles, and miso soup. All of which comes in unlimited serving including rice. 

Although appetizers are already included in the set meal we ordered, we found no reason to indulge on Edamame (Php99) and Agedashi Tofu (Php175). While I do not care much about the Edamame, I find delight digging into the delicate softness of the tofu with its savory sauce. I must it is one of the best Agadeshi I have ever tried.

As a first-timer, I cannot help but to feel an ill bout of confusion as to what I have to feast on. I wanted to order and try everything but that wouldn't be humanly possible. Hence, we settled for the Special Sharing Set (Php1,030) which is just perfect for two person.

The Special Sharing Set includes 2 deep-fried shrimp, 1 pork loin cutlet (65g), 2 crab cream croquettes, and 2 rolled cutlets (choice of asparagus, cheese, or plum). This set is perfect for those who wants to have a little taste of everything. I hope my photo could do justice in showing how big the serving was because it was really huge. 

What I love about it was the light and crisp panko coating. Very delicate to the bite and extremely flavorful. The pork loin in particular was so tender and moist which I really appreciate since I hate dry katsu to the core. The shrimps were plump and juicy, the croquettes were highly addictive, while the rolled cutlets which reminds me of cordon bleu were equally impressive.

We also had the Grated Radish Tenderloin Katsu (Php440) which is said to be one of their best sellers. I never doubted it since the goodness of this katsu dish is downright impressive. It has the light and crisp panko coating and the delightful tenderness of the pork loin. What made it all the more delectable however was the addition of grated radish and a slice of grapefruit meant to be squished over the pork.

As mentioned, the main point of our visit at Saboten in Glorietta was to try their Jumbo and Imported Deep-Fried Oyster from Hiroshima Japan. 

The Hiroshima Oyster is available in set meals for those who wants to have their usual Saboten favorites but still enjoy this new offering. We, however settled for an ala carte order of Deep-Fried Oyster for Php195 a piece. Sounds a bit expensive but if you see how big the oyster were, you would understand why was it tagged that way.

Just like the usual katsu dish, the jumbo oyster were coated in crisp golden panko. The oyster in the middle however remained succulent and juicy and flavorful all the same. I am a believer of eating oyster fresh with just a sprinkle of lemon and I rarely opt for cooked oyster unless it's baked with generous amount of cheese on top. But the Jumbo Hirosshima Oyster at Saboten made me a convert.

I tell you, you gotta try these oyster because it will only be available while supply lasts.

For dessert we had the Sesame Sans Rival (Php210) which I considered a welcome change to my usual buttercream sans rival indulgence. I love that the flavor of the sesame was very apparent making it unusual yet familiar all at the same time.

We also had the Matcha Lychee with Almonds (Php210). I am a big fan of Matcha and this cake made me realize how it can work well with lychee. 

My first experience at Saboten Philippines really blew me away. I guess I may have waited for too long to visit them but I am glad that we need not to brave the long lines people encountered during the early days of its opening.

I have nothing but good words when it comes to Saboten's food. Everything I have tried was excellent. The Jumbo Hiroshima Oyster was outstanding in terms of size, flavor, and texture that I cannot help but wish that there will be far more supplies of it so that it can last that long on their menu. 

Saboten Japanese Cutlet
Serendra, Bonifacio Global City
Contact Nos: 625.2000, 625.2888
Glorietta 5, Ayala Center, Makati
Contact Nos: 625.0909, 625.0899
Website: www.saboten.ph
Facebook: /raintreesaboten
Instagram: @sabotenpn