Japanese food, I think, is still one of the most underrated cuisines in the world. Yes, it does get a lot of attention because, c’mon, it’s Japan. But really, when we talk about Japanese food, there always is a mystery there that you can never quite solve and can’t just describe but you know it’s good. When you crave for it, there’s a particular taste, texture, and experience you look for. And in Baguio’s growing food community, there’s one that stands out when you talk about budget and quality both in food and experience: Teriyaki Boy in Baguio City.
“But it’s too commercial!” you might say. “It’s at a mall.” Well, yes. But let me tell you why it’s one of the places you should have on your list when you crave for Japanese food. Don’t get me wrong. There are a lot of Japanese restaurants in Baguio to choose from and I know there are those that you would prefer. I do have a list too. But as someone who loves the cuisine, I find myself going back to Teriyaki Boy on most days. Here’s why.
Teriyaki Boy: Why it’s the best place for budget-friendly quality food
1. First on the list of whys is they have a wide variety of Japanese food to choose from. Like I said, I love Japanese food. (I don’t know how many times I could say this.) Whenever that craving hits me, I find myself looking online for restaurants that could give me what I want. And usually, I love to have some Sashimi to start and then maybe some Gyoza and then some California Maki Rolls and then some ramen. And whenever I search online, I do get a lot of options but some restaurants offer just one or two of what I want. And then I remember that Teriyaki Boy offers all three. And so I go, take a look at that menu and find myself smiling knowing that I can get all three.
Sashimi is fresh, and served at the right temperature. California Maki Rolls taste really good and is served in a fancy way. I am happy. Just recently, though, they amped up their Chicken Teriyaki which is now bigger and tastier. You should try it! And since this is an honest review, I would say ramen is one thing I would have in another restaurant just because there are a couple of restos who specialize in this in Baguio.
2. Second on the list is I find myself still keeping some extra cash after my meal. Budget is something very important to me. Of course, when you crave, you have to at least have P 300- P 500. Whenever I sit down and take a look at that Teriyaki Boy menu, I end up giving a nod as if saying to myself, “Yes, I can satisfy my craving with what I have.” Again, I am happy. I can either take a sashimi and then four pieces of California Maki Roll for less than P 500.
3. Quality food. Quality is one thing you know you’d get if that restaurant is at a high-end mall like SM in Baguio City. Teriyaki Boy never disappoints. With quality service comes quality food. I love how they give free tea and how even on a budget, you get to have a Japanese experience with the ambiance, the utensils you use, the comfortable space and how each dish comes out as a delight.
So that’s that. Go visit Teriyaki Boy when in Baguio City whenever that Japanese craving hits you hard. They are located at the 2nd Level of SM City Baguio.