When craving for Japanese comfort food, Saigosan is the place to go
Train stations in Japan are more than just a mode of transportation. They are places of rest amidst a busy day, a quick embrace of comfort before heading home and, definitely, a treasure trove for delicious meals. Fortunately, you don’t have to fly all the way to Japan just to experience it!
Saigosan, a twist on the izakaya (a small Japanese bar and eatery), is located on the third floor of Uptown Mall, Bonifacio Global City, Taguig. With its bright neon lights, it's hard to miss. But beyond its façade that's reminiscent of life in Japan, what’s going to keep you coming back for more is the food that they offer.
Saigosan’s interior elevates the vibe as it mimics the design of trains in Japan
Combining the minds that launched beloved restaurants such as The Red Crab Alimango House, Blackbeard’s Seafood Island and Pier at Clawdaddy’s with the talent of Nobu-trained chef, Chris Oronce, you get an elevated blend of authentic Japanese dishes and modern favorites. With the wide variety of food at Saigosan, it won’t be hard to find something that suits your taste.
Rolling with sushi and sashimi
What Japanese resto experience would be complete without sushi and sashimi? Saigosan offers a Sashimi Platter (P655), so you can have a little bit of everything—salmon, tuna, tanigue, tamago and ikura—which is great for your first time. And if you’re feeling a bit more adventurous, we recommend the Spicy Shake (P280), a spicy salmon roll. As mentioned, Saigosan is all about adding twists to the classics, and the Mini Volcano (P280), which is their take on the beloved California roll, is a must-try.
Top: Sashimi Platter, Bottom (L-R): Spicy Shake, Mini Volcano
Burgers with a bang!
For burger lovers, the Grilled Teriyaki Burger With Egg (P445) is a definite must-try. And if you’re looking for something new and unique, the Roast Beef Sukiyaki Burger (P420) won’t fail you. At Saigosan, kids are very much welcome, too! We recommend the Tori Teri Sando (P375) and Tori Katsu Sando (P375).
No-fail chicken
Of course, chicken has its own category. Saigosan offers classic chicken Tenders (P275/5 pcs) and Wings (P325/5 pcs). What makes the experience different is the various sauces to choose from: teriyaki, wasabi mayo and creamy mushroom. Also, have you ever heard of Gyoza Stuffed Fried Wings (P135/pc)? Me neither. But hey, it's something we're putting on our list of items to try, too!
Noods, please
Don’t leave the restaurant without trying their ramen! One that stands out is the Fried Chicken Ramen (P550). Just imagine the crispiness of the chicken katsu with the softness of the noodles and the warmth of the miso-paitan broth all in one bite…tastes like our childhood! If you’re leaning towards pasta instead of soup, get the Truffle Wagyu Steak Macaroni (P685). The name says it all.
L-R: Fried Chicken Ramen, Truffle Wagyu Steak Macaroni
Don for days
Donburi, or a rice bowl meal, is already a cult classic. You can’t go wrong with the Chasu Bacon & Egg (P435), which spotlights applewood smoked bacon. Another crowd favorite is the Buta Kakuni Don (375), with braised pork belly as the star. A bonus for seafood lovers (I told you they have something for everyone): their Miso Butter Lobster (P875).
L-R: Chasu Bacon & Egg, Buta Kakuni Don
Down for Drinks and Desserts
Cap off your meal with the Matcha Panna Cotta with Jelly (P168). A refreshing drink or two won’t hurt, after all. For that, Saigosan suggests their House Blend (P120) and the Yuzu Blue Lemonade (P120).
L-R: Matcha Panna Cotta with Jelly, Yuzu Blue Lemonade, Saigosan House Blend
Whether you’re looking for a quick meal or a place to unwind, Saigosan is the place to be. Bond over anime, manga, old samurai films or simply enjoy the taste of Japan—right in BGC.
Itadakimasu!
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Photos Saigosan
Words Kyla Villena
Art Matthew Ian Fetalver
