Asian Bites in Supermarket of Robinsons Place Manila
This is an amusing blog post to share about a restaurant achieving some level of success despite being “ignored” during its first few years of operation. Let’s think of it as a zero-to-hero type of a story.
Several years back, Asian Bites used to be tucked within the labyrinths of Robinsons Supermarket here in Pedro Gil. I used the term “labyrinth” because it really was hidden somewhere in the corner (or elsewhere which makes the point stronger because it was that forgettable/ignorable). Whenever I passed by the restaurant, I would tend to come across empty chairs. I remember feeling sad each time. I felt back then that it would soon be forced to close down.
The ugly duckling turning into a swan
Robinsons Supermarket then decided to have a renovation, and Asian Bites was relocated in a more prominent location (in front of the check-out counters which really make it effortlessly noticeable). The design was also more up-to-date and appealed to the masses. In just a matter of days, the tables turned, and it started getting the attention it deserved.
Several years already passed, and customers were still sustained. In fact, my family is one of those who continuously patronize the restaurant. It stays true to its theme of offering quick Asian delights at a "bite-sized budget". Hence, whenever I find myself craving for some Japanese food, Asian Bites tops my options.
Not exactly a "restaurant"
The restaurant is technically not a “restaurant” given the open interior set-up. However, it also won’t fit a description of a “stall” since they have table and chairs. Upon weighing the characteristics, I would still tag Asian Bites as a restaurant based on a less rigid criteria.
The menu offers a handful of our common Chinese, Korean and Japanese cravings, but I’d say that it’s predominantly Japanese, much to my liking. As staple, we often order Salmon Sashimi here coupled with some rolls and Agedashi Tofu. This particular dinner was no exception, and my dad and I ordered the same.
The Salmon Sashimi (P169) came in with a rather bite-sized serving, but considering the price, I would still say that it’s a good value for money. It was not overwhelmingly dreamy and fresh, but it definitely hit the right spots which eased up my cravings.
The Agedashi Tofu (P95) captivated me with its supple texture. It gently glided on my lips upon contact, and the sauce had this delicate soy-sweetness that tickled my buds. Among all the dishes I tried here in Asian Bites, this is the top dish that I would recommend.
The California Maki (P155 for 8 pieces) was the most regular one among the three dishes we had for the night. Yet despite being the “last”, it was still satisfactory. If I'll do a comparison, I would liken the quality to those you find in eat-all-you-can restaurants.
We basically had a light dinner, since I was still full from tons of food we had for the eve of Christmas. Still, I left the restaurant with a satisfied grin on my face. Yeah, whenever I dine here, I tend to feel a wave of satisfaction knowing that I was able to maximize my money’s worth.
Asian Bites - Overall Ratings and Summary
Note: Unshaded stars are equivalents of half-stars. The ratings reflect my personal experiences on the times I dine here.
Place ★★★
Taste ★★★★
Service ★★★★
Value for Money ★★★★★
Budget: at least P150 each for a personal or sharing type of dining experience
No. of visits for this particular restaurant/branch - 7 || Date of last visit - December 25, 2018
Asian Bites may seem like an ordinary stall in Robinsons Supermarket here in Pedro Gil, but once you learn about the quality and the prices, you’ll understand why I often leave with a satisfied look on my face. Great service too!
As suggestions, you may go for Salmon Sashimi and Agedashi Tofu.
Asian Bites
Location: Ground Floor, Robinsons Supermarket, Robinsons Place, Pedro Gil, Manila
Service Charge: NONE
