I never really liked Japanese food, or probably because when I think of Japanese, I only think of sashimi and other raw food. But thinking deeper, I think Japanese food is more like an art (imagine the combination of meat, fruits and vegetables in sushis). Anyway, there are only a few Japanese restaurants that converted me into loving the cuisine – there is one in Makassar, Indonesia (read my blog entry entitled In a Japanese Restaurant with Americans, Brazilian, Indians and Mexican) and the other one is SumoSam. I went to the SumoSam Gateway store opening last week – and yes, I have gone Japanese!
From afar, the store looks relaxing and neat, and who greeted me in entrance was none other than, Marvin Agustin. Well, he didn’t actually greeted me and sent me to my seat – the SumoSam staff took care of that. But he was wearing his signature smile that morning. Who wouldn’t be smiling, this Sumosam has been expanding everywhere in the Metro.
A little history, SumoSam started through the 3 great minds of young entrepreneurs: Mr. Raymund Magdaluyo; Mr. Ricky Laudico and celebrity restaurateur, Mr. Marvin Agustin. Together with Chef Florabel Co-Yatco; Chef Nikki Nicolas, pioneer batch of CCA and Chef Benjamin Gonzalez. The team is looking at 20 branches by the end of the year.
Some hi’s and hello’s to the blogger friends I have never seen for a while (I have been MIA for some months), I settled in the table designated to bloggers and I let the smell of Japanese food filled my lungs. When I went to the main dining area, I found this big roll of tuna roll prepared by Marvin Agustin.
It was time to hold the mic and give a little speech ..
Then, it is time to do the opening ceremony. It is not done in the traditional ground-breaking and ribbon cutting ceremony, but sushi slicing!
and Marvin even ate the slice!
We were not left salivating over that looong sushi, it was shared with everyone.
It is big and flavorful! I have to use my hand to take a bite and forget about the chopsticks!
I think the event just started and ended with food!
Check out some yummy treats I got to try during opening..
Green and Red Iced Tea
Hot Prawn Salad
I love this one!
Spicy Tuna Salad
A spicy salad you ask? It is a must-try!
Japanese Food is not complete without a serving of Gyoza
And of course, Yakisoba!
We cannot forget the Tempura!
Writing this blog and looking at the pictures make me hungry..
I can say pass to the rice, I was having enough food..
Chicken Teri
Beef Gyudon
And we got this fruit platter for dessert!
I hate to touch any fruit and ruin the design..
I never realized I would enjoy Japanese Food that much. I am even thinking of going to Gateway now (if not that I am attending a wedding later this afternoon).
I love the location since it is accessible to me – especially that I usually pass by the area when going to work.
Congratulations to the team who opened and brought SumoSam in Gateway! I will see you guys again. Soon!
Now, before I end this post, I will tell you a story. The story of SumoSam..
Sumo Sam Legend
“The legend of SumoSam began when one spring, the finest Sumo Wrestlers in all of Japan witnessed migrating cranes from the United States flying towards mighty Mt. Fuji. They saw one crane carrying a red, white and blue pouch and were thrilled to see a baby boy break free from its shiny cloak upon descending at the foot of the mountain. Believing that the baby was a gift of good fortune, they took him back to their village and raised him as their very own. The baby grew fast in size and strength, and used these gifts only to champion the good and defend the weak. He grew up holding two passions: Japanese Food and Sumo Wrestling. His appetite broke records and he saw Japanese Food as the true reward to a good match up. Eventually, he was regarded as a Yokozuna – a grand champion, the highest rank in sumo wrestling. He has finally proven his worth when he released a village from tyranny by defeating the evil lord Aiku. This answered the prayers of Miyuki, the most beautiful maiden he had ever seen. She was the one who served him food he had never tasted before which helped him regain the strength he needed to fight Aiku. He was stronger as his heart fought for freedom and love. When the fight ended, the villagers prepared a grand banquet in his honor. His passion had made him an artist and he remains a true champion. His name is SumoSam: the Champion Eater, Legendery Fighter.”
Do you also like Japanese Food? What is your favorite from SumoSam? Give me suggestions what to order next!
See more of events pictures here.
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If you are reading this post somewhere, it is originally written by Ruth and published in www.ruthilicious.blogspot.com.
