Seryna in Little Tokyo, Makati

Our whole family loves Japanese food, evidenced by our multiple visits to Kikufuji, Ukokkei Ramen Ron and Tsumura. Its a cuisine we often fall back on because of its wonderful presentation and great flavors.

We’ve always wondered what Seryna serves since we often pass it by on our way home from Kikufuji, a stones throw away. So one Sunday, Irene, Lauren and me headed there for lunch. We got there a little past 12 and the place was packed, good thing there was valet parking with spaces in short supply. We also got lucky as there was a table that opened up after around 5 minutes of waiting.

We got a sunken booth table beside the door where you had to remove your footwear.The decor of Seryna borders on the darker shades, wooden pieces arranged artistically that had me thinking the one in charge of cleaning that must be cursing the designer every time. This decor is carried over from the outside for a uniform look.

Like with our other favorite Japanese restaurants, Seryna offers a lunch menu albeit with fewer choices compared to Kikufuji.

Another small menu tucked near the condiment tray listing new items got my attention, especially the Salmon Roll (P315). I don’t usually order sushi since I don’t want the rice filling me up. I wasn’t expecting anything nice, thinking it would be presented the usual roll way. What was laid out on the table was a thing of beauty, I initially had qualms about removing a piece. Excellent choice just a little expensive, something most dishes that have quality ingredients usually are

Lauren had her usual Ebi Tempura (P270/5 pieces) and a bowl of rice (P80). The shrimps were plump and medium to large sized, the batter good but my tastes are based on a cold piece of Lauren’s leftover tempura. She finished her whole bowl or rice and 3 and 1/2 shrimps so I guess that’s a thumbs up for her.

I picked the Sukiyaki Gozen (P350), its served with a bowl of rice and miso soup as well as salad and appetizer. The beef was tender with not that much fatty parts but I liked the sukiyaki in Nihonbashitei’s better.

Irene’s pick was the Udon Gozen (P350). The soup base was warm and soothing, the udon noodles chewy. Not bad at all but we both liked Tsumura’s better and had a few pieces of assorted tempura to boot.

Both out meals were served with the salad and appetizer above, the salad had some Japanese potato salad which I liked but I missed the small plate of sashimi from Kikufuji.

Overall, I would place Seryna in between Kikufuji and Tsumura. The decor and ambiance is light years better than Kikufuji’s but not as nice as the zen ambiance of Tsumura. Food is at the midpoint also, price range in the middle of the two former restos. The only reason I could think of picking this one is if you absolutely hate the look and feel of Kikufuji. This resto is still light years better in terms of quality than the wannabe Japanese restaurants we have in Ortigas and San Juan.

Seryna
Little Tokyo
2277 Chino Roces Ave.,
Makati City
894.3855

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