This diner was enticed to try out a restaurant which has the ambiance of a bazaar—garish, full of town fiesta decoration—recommended by foodies who previously had satisfactory meals there.
Ryuma Restaurant
Laguna Paseo de Sta. Rosa, Sta. Rosa, Laguna; Tel. 5020322
The Japanese restaurant’s name, Ryuma, doesn’t sound like a pleasant come-on. Who would think a dining place would have a name that sounds like a bone ailment?
But a favorable testimony from friends led us to the Greenfield area in Sta. Rosa City—the better to satisfy our curiosity.
Dining area—To our mind this place is in a confused state, unable to effect the solid character of a restaurant. It is like a bazaar from long ago, with toys and buntings scattered all over. It’s like being in a town fiesta or carnival.
But it’s a dining place all right, with marble tables and upholstered chairs. At one side is a platform which is also colorfully decorated.
There is a TV monitor running Japanese programs—“for ambiance,” one guest said.
Displays are a mix of various items—decanters and different bottles in an open cabinet. By the entrance are lots of toys meant as prizes. Truly a unique setup. Maybe it is meant to give a sense of fun to diners.
Service—To its credit, the service is fast and efficient.
Staff—Now here is where confusion is more evident. It could be that the uniform designer or management aimed to present a combined Asian culture; thus, the ladies’ uniforms vary. There were Chinese cheongsams, Vietnamese ao dai and Japanese kimonos in shades of pink and purple. The men wore white shirts with bow ties; a few were in dark formal jackets and black trousers. They were all gracious.
Suggested orders—The menu reflects the mind of a chef who is not confused. What comes out from his kitchen is authentic, delicious Japanese food.
The ramen with chicken had a flavorful broth. One serving can be shared by three people.
The Yakisoba is a mound of noodles with a separate bowl of its components—the better to control the combination of noodles and the other elements of the dish.
The shrimp tempura was perfectly crunchy; so were the vegetables which were sliced very thinly.
Lollipops are given to each guest while exiting.
No matter how hodgepodge the ambiance, Ryuma offers a satisfying meal, indeed.
Service and government charges are added to the bill. Senior cards are honored.
Rating
– 2 Spoons