An Unexpectedly Fine Lunch at Kimukatsu Shangri-la Plaza

Like Ikkoryu, Kimukatsu also embraces a minimalist approach in its design, highlighted only by several Japanese elements like this Shōji (panel screen or room divider) in front. 

Kimukatsu Shangri-la Plaza

A few meters from the entrance, I saw a series of imposing grayish-chocolate stepping stones in a bed of like-colored pebbles, which somehow promised an even sweeter destination.

Kimukatsu Shangri-la Plaza

But walking on these rocks proved harder than I initially thought because of my 3-inch wedges. 😁 However, when I saw the display window in black and white accented by a large Cherry Blossom replica, I realized that the side trip was worthwhile. 😍

Kimukatsu Shangri-la Plaza

When I finally reached the main hall, I couldn't help but smile when I saw the ceiling rife with unique lights that complemented the black tables, cha, and the centerpiece.

Kimukatsu Shangri-la Plaza

The kind staff ushered me to the best seat in trestaurantsto so that I could fully appreciate the centerpiecof a gorgeous 3D mural ofcherry blossomsom tree!

Kimukatsu Shangri-la Plaza

By this time, my blogger instinct kicked in, and the kind staff was pleased to indulge me. He offered some excellent pho,twhich wereat were applicable before the food review.

Kimukatsu Shangri-la Plaza

Before the food was served, the kind director of Kimukatsu, Mr. Kenji Komuro, offered to grind the sesame, which is considered an essential process in bringing out the unique taste of authentic pork cutlets.

Mr. Kenji Komuro

Director of Public Relations, Kimukatsu

Sesame Grinding experience at Kimukatsu Shangri-la Plaza

Allow me to share with you what I had that afternoon.

Kimukatsu Shangri-la Plaza

Miso Soup in Two Types. Offered in two types, Kimukatsu's white-colored variety is very mild, while the brown one has a punchier, deeper flavor.

Kimukatsu Shangri-la Plaza

Ebi Mayo (Php 210). It is an appetizer worth raving about because of its fresh and plump shrimp enveloped in a creamy, somewhat sour mayo. Truly flavorful and incredibly yummy!

Kimukatsu Shangri-la Plaza

Kimutaku (Php 110). Kimchi is very crunchy, thus making it more exciting to eat. The zesty side dish is not too spicy but instead emits an intense flavor, perhaps because of the addition of sesame. It whets the appetite and makes you craving for more.

Kimukatsu Shangri-la Plaza

Koshihikari Rice. Served in a Japanese-style container, I can't help but be amazed by all the presentation involved and how polished and glowing the rice looked up close. Unlike other restos, rice is cooked to order to bring out its nutty flavor, fluffy texture, and glossy appearance. Like the shredded cabbage, rice is also unlimited in every order of your tonkatsu set of choice.

Kimukatsu Shangri-la Plaza

Shredded Cabbage. Regarded as an invaluable side dish to pork cutlets for its ability to neutralize the palate, Kimukatsu offers an unlimited amount of this crunchy side dish in every order of their specially-made tonkatsu. It is best enjoyed with a sprinkle of Goma dressing.

Kimukatsu Shangri-la Plaza

3 Flavor Kimukatsu Set (Php 1200). Kimukatsu's famed 25-layered mille-feuille style tonkatsu (pork cutlet) is the resto's lifeline.

3 Flavor Kimukatsu Set in Cheese, Garlic, and Negi Shio

The resto's prized tonkatsu boasts of thinly sliced porthinly slicedy stacked in 25 layers and enveloped in a rich, crunchy batter. It is then fried at a low temperature for 8 minutes and then positioned vertically to steam to allow for an even distributeide the meat.

Kimukatsu's famed 25-layered mille-feuille style tonkatsu (pork cutlet)

I tried three flavors during the food review: Garlic, Cheese, and Negi Shio. As expected, I loved the Garlic Tonkatu's pungent flavor and the Negi Shio's zesty spring onion taste. However, I fell in love with the Cheese flavor, which remains the restaurant's bestselling variety. 

Cheese Flavored Tonkatsu

Negi Shio Flavored Tonkatsu

Tonkatsu is best enjoyed with some Sukemono pickles on the side and, of course, when the katsu is dipped in these three condiments: Kinukarsu, Himalayan Salt, or Okohitsu Ponju Sauce with a dash of some ground sesame seeds.

Condiments: Kinukarsu Sauce, Himalayan Salt, and Okohitsu Ponju Sauce
@ Kimukatsu Shangri-la Plaza

Kurogoma Pudding (Php 110). At first, I was concerned about the black sauce smothered over the pudding. But I was truly converted when I finally sank my teeth into this unique dessert made chiefly of sesame. It had the right sweetness and didn't even have the ounce of bitterness I expected. Inded a must-try!

Kimukatsu Shangri-la Plaza

Japanese Panna Cotta (Php 110). Not your ordinary panna cotta, the Japanese version has a more gooey texture but is surprisingly delish, thanks partly to the generous sprinkling of roasted Kinako soybean. It will be a sin not to order this, believe me!

Kimukatsu Shangri-la Plaza

Kimukatsu Sandwich (Php 210). This is an excellent option for those who want to enjoy the same 25-layered mille-feuille style tonkatsu (pork cutlet) at work.

Kimukatsu Philippines

My Rating:

 Marvelous! Highly recommended. 

Kimukatsu Philippines

Website

Facebook
Twitter
Level 5, Shangri-la Plaza East Wing
Shaw Blvd. cor EDSA Mandaluyong City
Phone: 727-0333
Hours: 11 am to 9 PM