One of the things I wanted to do while in Manila was to try Marugame Udon. It always has good reviews and even my Japanese students (FYI, I'm an ESL Tutor) love it and highly recommend it.
And so, after doing my errands in Makati, I proceeded to Glorietta 4. I made sure to come earlier to avoid the rush of diners during lunch time, 11 am to be exact. I was really setting my eyes on the Curry Udon since I love Japanese Curry (Large - 220 php). Also I ordered 2 pcs of gyoza (40 php each).
They had a condiments section where I got some scallions, ginger, and togarashi (chilli powder). Couldn't get some snaps of the section and the dining area since my shyness overcame me, sorry. Anyway, this was how my order looked:
I loved the noodles! They were firm and chewy. But for the curry... Hhhhhmmmm, it lacked the intensity of flavors I was hoping for. There was also a distinctive smell that I wasn't accustomed to. I can't thoroughly explain it but I wasn't particularly fond of it. Although the overall tasted improved a bit when I added the condiments. The gyoza was so-so - it also lacked flavor and seemed like it was freshly made.
Honestly, the experience was okay. But I don't think I'll have a second visit. Each person has his/her own preference. Perhaps most people love Marugame Udon. It's just that I'm not one of them. In my case, I'll be on a hunt for other udon places where my preference would be satisfied. 🍜🍜🍜