Beyond sushi, sashimi and maki

CEBU, Philippines — There’s no question about how keen the Japanese are in adopting foreign cultures as their own. From the use of kanji (one of Japan’s four modes of writing, adopted from Chinese logographic characters) to the integration of the seifuku (standard Japanese school uniform, adopted from European-style dresses) as cultural hallmarks, the Japanese’s skill in refining certain aspects of foreign cultures extends to the world of culinary delights – the “Chaliapin Steak” (a type of steak that’s widely identified as a Japanese original) being one of many.

In Cebu City – particularly at the Bonifacio District along F. Cabahug Street in Mabolo – three restos plate up specials that aren’t exactly Japanese originals but have been hailed as distinct Japanese delights: Japanese curry by Coco Ichibanya, fusion-themed ramen by Mitsuyado Sei-Men, and artisanal coffee by UCC Clockwork.