The Market Monitor Minding the Nation's Business
By Isabella Cuartero
We’re not gatekeeping this fairly new Japanese restaurant in Quezon City!
Discover Tamako Japanese Dining, where Japanese comfort food meets premium specialties. Rooted in Hokkaido’s culinary traditions, the concept traces its origins to Singapore in 1990, inspired by the “Mama Tama-ko’s” culinary legacy. With already three branches in Singapore, Tamako now brings its dining concept to the Philippines.
Bringing this vision to life is a team led by co-owner and actor-filmmaker Fifth Solomon, CEO Terence Lim, and Corporate Chef Justin Tee.
At its grand opening last October 15, we sampled Mama Tamako’s Heritage Broth, Tamako Salad, Sashimi, Chawanmushi, and Gyoza. For sushi, we had the Tamako Signature Maki and Dynamite Maki, followed by Yakitori, Chicken Teriyaki, Black Tiger Prawn Tempura, and Gindara Saikyo Miso.
Tempura lovers can choose between the more affordable white shrimp and the premium black prawn varieties, the latter of which we tried. For something extra special, we had the A4 Kagoshima Wagyu Sirloin Teppan paired with Yakimeshi. We ended our meal on a sweet note with their Matcha Tiramisu.
Beyond the menu, Tamako is rooted in a personal love for Japanese dining.
“My business partner and I, TJ, we are Chinese-Filipinos, but our favorite cuisine has always been Japanese. Japanese cuisine has always been sentimental to us because we grew up celebrating family milestones, family events in Japanese restaurants. So that is something both of us wanted to pass on to our children or to have a legacy,” Chef Tee shared.
That sentiment carries into the restaurant’s target market. “Our primary target is families, followed by dating couples, groups of friends, and young professionals looking to have a good time.”
For authentic Japanese flavors in Quezon City, visit Tamako Japanese Dining at 39 Scout Torillo corner Scout Rallos.