When I was still working near Greenhills, Omakase was my go-to place for sushi. Mainly because the choices they offer are delicious. My colleagues also got into it when I one day suggested to have our monthly dinner at Omakase instead. Sadly, I wasn't able to visit my favorite restaurant after leaving that workplace.
Fast forward to last Friday when the Christmas rush took my friends and I by surprise. First of all, we were fully aware that traffic will be very intense. That is why we planned our "Christmas get together" in advance and even reserved a table.
Since we were all coming from different directions, Timog Avenue was clearly the best place. Sadly, the restaurant didn't have an ample parking space. So we waited but still didn't get a parking space. It was already getting late and most restaurants were about to close we searched the area for another restaurant. This unfortunate incident led us to Il Terrazzo which was a total upgrade because this mall features various restaurants. You see, we always drink coffee after. So this was perfect
Moreover, one the restaurants at Il Terrazzo is my favorite. Obviously, I voted for that! As mentioned, it was already late but the staff of Omakase were very kind and still welcomed us. Seriously, we're very grateful because we were so hAngry.
"Leave it up to the chef"
Btw, did you know Omakase used to be a small take-out counter before becoming one of the most popular Japanese restaurants in the metro? Omakase is owned by brothers-in-law Ed Encisa and Rico Rosales. The former was a chef in a Japanese restaurant abroad. Being away from family; not to mention, the September 11 attacks made him consider about going home. With a little push from his brother-in-law, Encisa finally decided to return and start a new chapter.
It was in 2002 when the brothers-in-law decided to open a small takeout counter in Quezon City. They called it "Omakase" which means "leave it up to the chef." They used to only serve three kinds of maki which they sold at a very affordable price. And just like any business, there were times that their sale wasn't good. But that didn't stop them. Encisa also continued to experiment and concoct unique sushi rolls. Now, Omakase has different branches in the metro.
Omakase - Il Terrazzo
Like their other branches, this one also features a minimalist interior but is well-lit, ventilated and clean. The service was great, too especially the food. We had the following:
Omakase Tropical Salad
Pork Gyoza
Ebi Tempura
Tonkotsu Ramen
California Maki
Sunset Maki *not sure 😀
Green Dragon Roll
I love all the flavors these dishes give but the BEST is the Green Dragon Roll. It's not a myth! This is real! Just look at the layers of that Green Dragon Roll especially the core of fillings and don't forget the topping. You will taste ebi tempura, unagi, and kani with seaweed salad. Delish!
Have you been to Omakase lately? Well, you should. While you're there, try the Green Dragon Roll. 🙂
You can find them at the Ground Floor of Il Terrazzo,
Tomas Morato Corner Scout Madrinan Street,
South Triangle, Quezon City
