Yabu-licious, Yabu: The House of Katsu - Robinson's Magnolia

There's a katsu hype in town.. A hype that likely won't die down anytime soon. In fact, I bet this hype will go on and on and on.. only in Yabu: The House of Katsu.

The first time I've tried Yabu, it was during the soft opening of their Megamall branch. I read raves and reviews online that just made me want to try it out for myself. Without a doubt, we weren't disappointed. 

And just recently, we got to try their newest branch in Robinson's Magnolia which is nearer to home and more accessible for us to visit. Thank you to Ms. Jel Cortez for inviting us over to try out some of Yabu's signature dishes. 

Rosu Kurobuta Curry (P615)

Even before our visit, I already have my order in mind-Rosu Kurobuta Curry that basically has everything I want on it.

Rosu Kurobuta is made from the world's finest pork that has a the right amount of fat trimmings for a juicier and more tender texture. Kurobuta, also known as the Black Berkshire Pig is like the "kobe" of beef prized for its succulence, exquisite flavor and superior taste. 

And what better complement this premium tonkatsu than a rich bowl of slow-cooked Japanese curry made with 45 ingredients. Just tell the servers how spicy you want your curry- Regular, Hot or Very Hot. 

An order of this Katsu Curry Set includes unlimited Japanese Rice, miso soup, Japanese pickles, unlimited cabbage and a bowl of fruit slices (watermelon and pineapple). 

I love the Japanese sticky rice with black sesame seeds to make it more aromatic and fragrant. I also love their hot miso soup with crunchy wakame seaweeds and tofu. But what I love most about ordering their katsu sets is the unlimited cabbage mixed with the perfect sesame dressing- thankfully it's unlimited 'cause I just can't get enough of it. 

Hire and Seafood Katsu Set (P475)

Want to try a little bit of everything? Then their mixed katsu set is for you. Choose between Seafood sets with Hire or Chicken or Vegetarian Katsu set for a healthier choice. 

We opted for the Hire and Seafood Katsu Set which consists of flaky pork cutlet without the fat, jumbo black tiger prawn, cream dory, scallop, eggplant and green bell pepper. 

Everything is perfectly coated with crunchy panko breading that gives that nice crisp and crunch in every bite without being overly "breaded". 

The highlight of this dish aside from the pork tenderloin cutlet is the soft and tender cream dory that almost melts in your mouth. The only thing that I didn't eat  in this set is the green bell pepper which I hope was carrots or any other vegetable instead. Nevertheless, I enjoyed everything from the pork and seafood down to the large chunk of eggplant. 

Appetizers (P195/2 choices)

Yabu also offers delicious appetizers and salads such as this Wakame Seaweed Salad topped with ebiko and this Superior Potato and Egg Salad tossed in creamy mayonnaise-mustard dressing. 

We weren't supposed to order drinks but our server Marian insisted we try their Bottomless House Blend Iced Tea (P95) and Watermelon Shake (P90).

It was a great call as their Iced Tea was refreshingly good while the Watermelon Shake was made with sweet and fresh watermelon.

The Magnolia Wall 

Yes, there's a katsu hype in Yabu and it truly deserves all the hype it is getting. Service was fast, servers were attentive to customers' needs and most importantly, they treat everyone like special guests in the House of Katsu. 

Great food and great service, excellent choice of house to visit. Can't wait to knock on Yabu's door once again. It's Yabu-licious!!! :) 

Yabu: The House of Katsu

LGF Robinsons Magnolia Town Center,

Hemady St., cor. Aurora Blvd., New Manila, Quezon City

Tel Num: 961-4975

Facebook Page: www.facebook.com/yabuhouseofkatsu