Osaka's Don Don Tei offers 'easy Japanese' dishes in 1st Manila restaurant

MANILA, Philippines — If you're a fan of Japanese rice bowls, Osaka's Don Don Tei recently opened its first location in the country. 

“The arrival of Don Don Tei in the Philippines furthers Gourmet Kineya's dedication to sharing the joy of simple, delicious and affordable meals with the world,” said Hideto Nishijima, Managing Director of Business Strategy & Planning.  

“At Don Don Tei, also known as Kineya Don Don Tei, we believe in the philosophy of 'Easy Japanese' —  where simplicity meets taste. Our extensive training with Japanese culinary experts and our strict adherence to quality ingredients ensure that each meal served is not just a dish, but an experience.”

Located in Robinsons Galleria, the first Don Don Tei in the country offers a specially curated selection, making sure that there is a dish for every preference. It also has Tempura Specials, from the Special Ebi Tendon with Black Tiger Prawns, Ebi Tendon, to the must-try Kakiage Ebi Tendon.

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Don Don Tei has grown its brand to overseas locations, an inspiring feat from its humble beginings as a 14-seater bar in Osaka in 1988. 

At the newly-opened restaurant, other must-try dishes include its Gyudon, with its thinly sliced beef and onions simmered in a sweet sauce over rice; the indulgent Wagyu Yakiniku Don, where grilled Wagyu beef reveals the smoky essence of Japanese barbecue and the Sukiyaki Jyu, with its rich mix of beef, vegetables and tofu in a sweet soy broth.

The menu is varied, with many options for those who prefer different meats to go with their bowls of rice. 

Those who prefer pork can opt for Katsudon, which combines the crispiness of a breaded pork cutlet with the comforting warmth of eggs and the sharp tang of onions. Tonkatsu Don features a crispy, breaded pork cutlet drizzled with a tangy sauce, while Katsu Curry marries the crunchy texture of a breaded pork cutlet with Japanese curry. 

Chicken Donburi includes Oyakodon, which symbolizes the parent-and-child relationship through its use of chicken and egg over rice. This bowl is a blend of savory chicken and gently cooked eggs, creating a dish that is as wholesome as it is