This March, Manila’s food landscape is enriched with the opening of Don Don Tei, a beacon of authentic Japanese cuisine straight from Osaka, Japan. Nestled in the second level of Robinsons Galleria (ADB Wing), this establishment marks its first venture in the Philippines, promising a genuine Japanese dining journey tailored to the local taste.

Don Don Tei specializes in donburi, a quintessential Japanese comfort dish, offering a rich variety of rice bowls adorned with succulent toppings from beef and pork to seafood and chicken, all simmered in distinctive sauces that embody the soul of Japanese culinary art.

Special Ebi Tempura Teishoku – Special Ebi Tempura (Black Tiger Prawns with Vegetable Tempura) set with Green Beans & Carrots Kobachi, Tsubozuke Pickles, Japanese Rice, Miso Soup, & Potato Salad

Hideto Nishijima, Gourmet Kineya’s Managing Director of Business Strategy & Planning, articulates the brand’s mission to spread the delight of straightforward, tasty, and economical meals globally. “The introduction of Don Don Tei in the Philippines is a testament to our commitment to bringing the best of Japanese culinary traditions to Filipino food enthusiasts. We are eager to serve our guests and look forward to expanding our presence in the Philippines, a country known for its love of Japanese cuisine,” he remarks.

Nagoya Style Unagi Teishoku – Torched unagi with Kabayaki sauce served in a set with Green Beans & Carrots Kobachi, Tsubozuke Pickles, Japanese Rice, Soup & Potato Salad

A Menu Crafted for Filipino Palates

Central to Don Don Tei’s offering is the donburi, enhanced with a selection from crispy Tempura Specials featuring Black Tiger Prawns, savory Beef Selections like Gyudon and Wagyu Yakiniku Don, to delectable Pork Delights and Seafood Selections. Chicken lovers can rejoice over choices like Oyakodon and Chicken Teriyaki Don, among others.

Special Ebi Tendon – Deep fried battered Black Tiger Prawns served with mix tempura of squash, eggplant, and green bell pepper, drizzled with our signature Don Don Tei tendon dashi

Nishijima emphasizes, “At Don Don Tei, we’re not just serving meals; we’re providing an immersive experience. Every donburi comes with miso soup, a nod to Japanese hospitality. For those desiring a fuller meal, we offer a Teishoku upgrade, complete with a variety of side dishes.”

Katsu Curry – Breaded pork cutlet served with curry sauce and pickled radish
Cold Soba with Mixed Tempura – Buckwheat Noodles with shredded nori served with Kake Dashi broth with spring onions, wasabi, and Ebi Tempura on the side

Moreover, Don Don Tei features Soba noodles, celebrated for their health benefits, in both hot and cold variants, alongside a refreshing lineup of citrus beverages from the Yuzu series, ensuring a well-rounded dining experience.

Upholding Tradition and Taste

With roots tracing back to 1988 in Abeno, Osaka, Don Don Tei joins the ranks of establishments under Gourmet Kineya, a pioneer in delivering authentic Japanese cuisine since 1967. This expansion to the Philippines underscores the brand’s enduring legacy and commitment to quality, simplicity, and affordability.

Marissa So, Executive Vice President of Oishi Gourmet Foods, Inc., highlights the meticulous training and quality control that go into each dish, ensuring that every serving is not only authentic but a true representation of Japanese culinary precision.

Grilled Mackerel Don – Pan-Fried Mackarel brushed with our signature sauce, served with shredded egg, cucumber slices, & crab sticks

Embracing “Easy Japanese” Dining

Don Don Tei distinguishes itself by making Japanese cuisine accessible and enjoyable for everyone. The concept of “Easy Japanese” resonates well with the Filipino dining ethos, emphasizing quick, simple, affordable, and delightful meals in a welcoming atmosphere.

Gyudon – Sliced beef belly simmered in our signature sauce, served with onsen tamago, and garnished with spring onions, pickled red ginger, and shredded nori

As Don Don Tei opens its doors in Manila, it invites diners to explore and savor the richness of Japanese cuisine, promising an experience that’s sure to captivate and satisfy.

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