TL;DR: A stunning, upscale downtown spot with high-end fine dining prices and an amazing hip-hop/R&B lounge vibe. The creative Filipino-fusion savory dishes are great for sharing, but the absolute showstoppers here are the intricate, flawless desserts. The second you walk into Animae, the mood is set perfectly with low, atmospheric lighting and a really cool hip-hop and R&B playlist. The interior is absolutely gorgeous and modern, immediately giving off that upscale, high-energy downtown vibe. It's definitely the kind of fine dining spot where you'll want to dress up rather than dress down, and you should be prepared to spend some decent money for the experience. It feels like a true destination for a special occasion or a fancy night out on the town. The food is incredibly creative, blending classic Asian profiles with modern techniques. For the appetizer, we started with the scallop crudo. It was beautifully presented and the initial bite of scallop, glass noodles, and citrusy orange was great, but it had a unique fizz or carbonation effect that totally caught us off guard. It's definitely an interesting culinary experiment to try, even if it was more fascinating than flat-out delicious for my personal taste. For the main entrees, I ordered the beef kare kare. The beef and eggplant slices were incredibly tender, but the peanut sauce it's doused in is intensely rich--I'd highly recommend sharing this dish rather than trying to finish it all yourself. My girlfriend got a seabass dish that was also super tender and flavorful. What easily earned the night a 10/10, though, was the dessert. They kindly brought out a light, smooth matcha cream with a candle for my girlfriend's 21st birthday, which was such a sweet touch. We also ordered the sticky rice creme brulee, which featured a brilliant layer of sticky rice at the bottom topped with a crunchy, sweet burnt sugar shell, fresh fruit, and a zesty calamansi cream. My absolute favorite, however, was the chocolate cremeux. It's a rich mousse paired with spicy, salty Korean-flavored cashews, and that savory, fiery crunch cut through the sweet chocolate perfectly. The service here is honestly some of the best I've experienced. They are incredibly attentive, constantly swapping out your plates and silverware between courses depending on what you ordered, and they even clean down the table periodically--a high-end touch you don't see at many places anymore. Our waitress was amazing, checking in just the right amount of times and hooking us up with some fantastic drink recommendations. If you want a unique, memorable dining experience with top-tier hospitality, it's worth every penny. read more

Dining from Animae was thoughtful and accommodating restaurant experiences I've had. Because of my health issues and extensive food allergies, I wasn't able to dine indoors, so we ordered everything to-go -- and even then, the level of care from Dick, Jordan, the chefs, and everyone involved in preparing our food was absolutely extraordinary. What impressed me most was how seriously the team took every allergy and accommodation request. Dick & Jordan personally worked with the chefs to thoughtfully modify dishes, carefully noting cross-contamination concerns and ingredient changes so that everyone in our group could safely share and enjoy the meal together. It never once felt like an inconvenience to them -- they treated our needs with genuine compassion, professionalism, and incredible attention to detail. The food itself was phenomenal, even as takeout. The Perilla Pesto Tteokbokki was rich, comforting, and packed with flavor, with perfectly chewy rice cakes coated in a vibrant, herbaceous pesto that balanced freshness with warmth and spice and crunchy deliciousness. The kitchen was also kind enough to accommodate shellfish concerns so it could safely be shared, which meant so much to us. The Sea Bass Cha Cha was beautifully prepared -- delicate, buttery sea bass with an incredible depth of flavor and texture that held up perfectly even as takeout. Every bite tasted intentional and refined. Such beautiful colors. The steak was cooked exactly as requested: fully cooked without being dry, achieving that difficult perfect middle ground between medium-well and well-done. It was tender, flavorful, and expertly prepared. The Mantou reflected the team's attention to detail. The kitchen graciously removed the coconut sugar so it could safely be shared with me, and the bread itself was soft, pillowy, and absolutely delicious. We loved the creaminess as well as the salty deeply flavorful seed and salt mix. What made this experience unforgettable wasn't just the food -- it was the care behind it. So many places claim they can accommodate allergies, but Animae truly went above and beyond to make us feel safe, included, and genuinely cared for. Dick, Jordan, the chefs, and the entire team created an experience that allowed us to enjoy an amazing meal together without stress or fear, and that kind of hospitality is incredibly rare. Animae delivers not only exceptional food, but exceptional humanity. I cannot recommend them highly enough. read more

Animae absolutely delivered one of the most dialed-in dining experiences I've had in San Diego, and what stood out most wasn't just the food--it was the people. We ordered a mix across the menu, and every dish felt intentional and balanced. The tuna kinilaw was insanely fresh and bright, with that perfect hit of citrus and coconut that wakes everything up without overpowering the fish. The spring pea salad was lighter but still layered, with a really clean, slightly sweet profile that worked well as a reset between richer plates. The coal roasted cabbage was one of those sleeper hits--deep umami from the miso and brown butter, with just enough char to give it structure. And the pork tomahawk tocino was the anchor--sweet, savory, and rich without being heavy, with that mango element cutting through at the right moments. We also ordered the Taiwanese chicken, and it deserves a callout on its own. The szechuan peppercorn hit right away with that subtle numbing spice, balanced perfectly by the hot honey that added just enough sweetness without dulling the heat. The thai basil aioli tied everything together with a fresh, herbaceous finish that kept each bite from feeling heavy. Crispy, flavorful, and honestly one of the more addictive dishes on the table--it's one I'd come back for on its own. Service-wise, Matt and Madeleine were both excellent--attentive without hovering, pacing everything well, and clearly knowing the menu. But the real standout, and honestly the reason I'm even writing this review, was Nicole at the host stand. I've never written a review calling out a host before, but Nicole completely changed that. From the moment we checked in, she was engaged, confident, and genuinely knowledgeable about the menu--not in a scripted way, but in a way that felt like she actually understood the food and how the dishes worked together. Her recommendations weren't just "popular items," they were thoughtful and tailored, and they ended up being some of the best parts of the night. You don't usually expect that level of insight from a host, and it elevated the entire experience before we even sat down. That kind of front-of-house presence sets the tone for everything, and Animae clearly takes that seriously. Between the food, the execution, and a team that actually knows what they're doing across the board, this place lives up to the hype. I'll be back, and I'll be paying attention at the host stand again. read more

Animae in San Diego offers a unique and memorable dining experience that's definitely worth trying! The atmosphere is absolutely stunning, with chic decor and a modern vibe that sets the stage for a great evening. The menu is innovative, blending Asian-inspired flavors with a contemporary twist. **Service: 5/5.** Our clams took longer than expected, and the team was kind enough to comp us for the clams and even threw in two desserts, which was incredibly generous. Special thanks to Audrey and Jordan for providing such excellent customer service. **Food: 3/5.** This was my second visit, and unfortunately, the food didn't quite live up to my previous experience. It could be because we ordered different dishes this time, but overall, the food was just okay. - **Tuna Kinilaw:** Tasted authentic with a bit of spice and a refreshing flavor. Mixing all the ingredients together really brought out the flavors. One of the better dishes we had. - **A5 Wagyu Tartare:** Good flavor when mixed together, but it would have been better with something like shrimp chips to scoop it up. - **Crab Fried Rice:** While good, it didn't wow me for the price. I think I could find better in Chinatown for a fraction of the cost. - **Dinuguan:** Unfortunately, this didn't hit the mark. It lacked the traditional spice and used pulled pork, which I've never seen in this dish. It reminded me more of mole than dinuguan. I'd skip this one. - **Sambal Balado Clams:** This dish felt out of place on the menu. It tasted more Italian, like a cioppino, with a bit of spice and some Asian ingredients like rice cake thrown in. While flavorful, it didn't feel cohesive with the rest of the menu. I'd pass on this one. - **Buko Pandan and Ube Profiteroles:** The desserts were the highlight of the meal--both were absolutely amazing! - **Lilikoi Cocktail:** Smoky, fruity, and delicious! Overall, the service was excellent, earning a 5/5, but the food fell short at 3/5. This balances out to a 4/5 rating. I was a bit disappointed, as my first visit was outstanding, but this time it felt a bit underwhelming. read more

If I could give more than 5 stars, I absolutely would. Animae is not just a restaurant, it is an experience built on passion, care, creativity, and genuine hospitality from the moment you walk through the door. We loved this place so much that we came back two days in a row, and what made it even more special was that they actually remembered us. That level of genuine care and attentiveness says everything about the people here. It made us feel welcomed, valued, and honestly like family instead of just another table walking through the door. You can immediately feel the heart behind everything they do, and that starts with Head Chef Tara. The level of detail, flavor, presentation, and consistency in every dish is incredible. You can tell Chef Tara truly cares about the food and about giving guests something memorable, not just another meal. Every plate felt thoughtfully crafted and full of personality. It is rare to find a chef who combines talent and heart so effortlessly. The service was equally amazing and honestly made the experience unforgettable. Nina, Stacy, and Damien were beyond exceptional. They were attentive, warm, knowledgeable, and genuinely kind. They created an atmosphere where you feel comfortable, appreciated, and taken care of from beginning to end. Their energy and hospitality are a huge reason we returned again the very next day. What stood out most was how personal everything felt. Nothing felt forced or transactional. The team created an environment full of positivity, comfort, and excitement, and that is something you simply cannot fake. Restaurants can have good food, but places like this, where the people make you feel at home while delivering an unforgettable dining experience, are truly rare. Animae deserves every bit of recognition and success coming its way. Huge thank you to Chef Tara, Nina, Stacy, and Damien for creating such an incredible experience. We will absolutely keep coming back and recommending this place to everyone we know. read more

To celebrate my 8th wedding anniversary, my wife and I dined at Animae, drawn by its promise of elevated Filipino cuisine and glowing reviews about its luxurious setting. Upon entering, the ambiance immediately captured us. The dimly lit interior exuded sophistication, with its artfully designed décor and serene elegance setting the perfect mood for a romantic evening. It was a feast for the eyes, creating an atmosphere where every detail seemed meticulously curated. The service was exemplary. From the moment we arrived, the staff was attentive yet unobtrusive, striking that delicate balance between professionalism and warmth. Our server was knowledgeable and accommodating, making us feel valued throughout the evening. The food, however, was where my anticipation faltered. I appreciated the vision behind reimagining Filipino cuisine with a refined twist, and the presentation was nothing short of spectacular--each dish looked like a work of art. Yet, despite its visual appeal, the flavors failed to resonate with the same impact. The dishes were well-executed technically but lacked the bold, dynamic flavors that Filipino cuisine is known for. It was as though the soul of the dishes had been subdued in the pursuit of elegance. While I commend Animae for its ambition and innovation, I found myself wanting more. More vibrancy, more depth--more of the essence that makes Filipino food so beloved. I left with mixed feelings, appreciating the effort and artistry but yearning for a culinary experience that lingered on my palate as much as the ambiance lingered in my memory. If you're seeking a venue that embodies romance and impeccable service, Animae is undoubtedly worth a visit. For those seeking a transcendent gastronomic journey, it may still have some growing to do. read more

We celebrated our 14th wedding anniversary here and had such a memorable experience. With a Filipina chef at the helm, the menu offers a creative Asian fusion that feels both elevated and nostalgic. The ambiance is vibrant, with fun 90s/2000s music that makes the whole evening feel lively yet intimate. The cocktails were standout. Favorites included the Uncle Iroh (gin, matcha, pandan, yuzu), Midnight in Manila (coconut rum, ube), and a unique Old Fashioned infused with A5 wagyu essence. They even surprised us with complimentary champagne for our anniversary, which was such a thoughtful touch. For food, the scallop crudo was fresh and bright with beautiful acidity. The short rib kare-kare with garlic rice was incredibly tender and flavorful (slightly salty, possibly from the bagoong oil, but still delicious). The pork tocino tomahawk was a highlight -- amazing on its own, and the mango sawsawan took it to another level. Even the coal-roasted cabbage was a revelation -- deeply flavorful and perfectly cooked. Desserts were just as impressive. The turon tart was a creative deconstructed take with brown sugar custard, banana ice cream, jackfruit gel, and a crisp turon wrapper. They also treated us to a complimentary matcha sponge cake with boba, berries, and strawberry Pocky -- both desserts were fantastic in their own way. The staff, especially our server Tessa, were attentive, warm, and genuinely made the night feel special. Little details -- like the scent of sampaguita near the restroom -- transported me back to the Philippines in the best way. Highly recommend for a special occasion or anyone looking for a refined yet heartfelt Filipino-inspired dining experience. It would be amazing to see taho added to the menu someday for an extra touch of Filipino nostalgia. read more

From the moment I walked into Animae, I knew I was in for something special. The warm welcome from two lovely hosts set the tone, and I was instantly captivated by the upscale, impeccably designed atmosphere. It's a delicate balance to deliver both aesthetic appeal and incredible food, but Animae exceeds expectations on all fronts. My table and I were so impressed that we nearly ordered the entire menu, starting with four appetizers: the wontons, Taiwanese crispy chicken, lamb chops, and crispy pig ear. While every bite was fantastic, two dishes stole the spotlight. The Taiwanese crispy chicken was served piping hot with a perfect crunch and paired with an unforgettable Thai basil aioli--simply wow. My second favorite, surprisingly, was the crispy pig ear. Although I was hesitant at first, I was blown away by the unique texture and flavors. For mains, we indulged in the lobster palabok, pork tomahawk, and spicy sea bass. Every dish was mouthwatering, but the pork tomahawk stood out as the star. It was incredibly juicy and tender, served with a flavorful dipping sauce that elevated every bite. Animae also offers an impressive variety of spirits. I opted for the Okilu cocktail, which was refreshingly fruity with just the right balance of spirit. The customer service was exceptional, complementing the elevated dining experience. Without a doubt, I'll be returning soon. Animae has easily secured a spot in my top five fine dining restaurants in San Diego. If you're looking for a combination of stunning ambiance, flawless service, and show-stopping dishes, this is the place to be! read more

A Missed Opportunity The only thing buzzing at this restaurant is the hype. Unfortunately, the quality of food fell far short of expectations. The flavors were underwhelming, and the quality of ingredients just didn't match the prices. I started with the crudo, beet salad, and lamb chops as appetizers. The crudo was basic--light in flavor with gelatin-infused cubes that didn't complement the fish well. It felt like an afterthought rather than a carefully crafted dish. The beet salad was similarly uninspired. Large chunks of beets drizzled with a basic yogurt sauce might work at a casual spot, but for the price here, I expected some innovation or a punch of flavor. And the lamb chops? Overcooked and dominated by a heavy layer of char--definitely not the tender, flavorful experience I was hoping for. For my main courses, I had the pork chops, an 8oz choice filet, and crab fried rice. The filet was a real letdown--lacking any depth of flavor and again weighed down by the overpowering chard. After one bite, I had no desire to go back for more. The pork chops weren't bad but didn't do anything to redeem the meal. The standout of the night was the crab fried rice, but honestly, my local Thai place serves fried rice of equal quality at half the price. At the end of the night, I left disappointed. With the prices they charge, I expected far more in terms of both flavor and creativity. I hope the management takes a more hands-on approach and tastes their own dishes more often to improve the overall experience. Unfortunately, I won't be returning anytime soon. read more

I just had to drop a review about my unforgettable experience at Animae. This place got me in my feelings, and I'm not talking about love or heartbreak--I'm talking about the mind-blowing flavors that took me on a culinary journey like no other. From the moment I stepped into Animae, the ambiance had me hooked. The art deco-inspired space, the vibrant lights, and the energy in the air set the perfect stage for an epic night. The staff was attentive, making sure my FAMMM and I felt like superstars throughout the evening. Now let's talk about the food. Oh my, where do I even begin? Animae's coal-fired pan-Asian concept is a genius fusion of flavors that will blow your mind. Chef Tara Massoud, created dishes that pushed boundaries and challenged traditional Asian cuisine. The mashup of Asian and Mediterranean influences was a stroke of genius, resulting in flavor combinations that will leave you speechless. Animae isn't just about the food; it's an experience. Great people watching', and the vibes were high. I could feel the energy in the room as diners savored every bite. The party atmosphere added an extra layer of excitement to the already phenomenal dining experience. So, if you're ready to embark on a culinary adventure that will leave you in awe, head to Animae. It's a place where East meets West, where boundaries are shattered, and where flavors dance harmoniously. Animae got me vibin' and craving for more. Trust me, you don't want to miss out on this gem. Thank you, Animae, for the unforgettable night. We'll definitely be back for round two. read more

Animae has been one of my favorite restaurants for a while now, and once again, it did not disappoint! This visit was extra special as we were celebrating my birthday and welcoming back a dear friend visiting from the Air Force. From the moment we arrived, everything about the experience was top-notch. I have a severe shellfish allergy, and our waiter went above and beyond to ensure I felt safe and cared for. They provided an allergy-friendly menu and personally crossed out everything I needed to avoid. It's rare to see such attention to detail, and it set the tone for an incredible evening. Now, let's talk about the food and drinks--simply outstanding! Highlights included: * Crudo: Fresh and vibrant. * Duck: Perfectly cooked and rich in flavor. * Sea Bass: The absolute star of the night! The crispy skin was perfection, and the spicy broth elevated it to another level. Hands down the best dish I've ever had at Animae. * Crispy Tuna Rice: Though I couldn't enjoy it, my friends raved about every bite. * Mushroom Sisig: A delicious, umami-packed delight. * Yuzu Apple Sorbet: The perfect ending to a perfect meal--light, refreshing, and the perfect "icing on the cake." The drinks were equally incredible, crafted with precision and balance. Each sip complemented the food perfectly and added to the celebratory mood. The ambiance, service, and thoughtful touches made the evening unforgettable. Thank you, Animae, for making my birthday and our reunion so special. This is why I keep coming back! 5 stars aren't enough for nights like this! read more

I went to Animae with my wife this past weekend and had an enjoyable experience overall. I would give this restaurant a 3.5-star rating, but I'm rounding up to 4 due to the excellent service we received. To start, my wife had the sesame milk tea with boba, which was quite delicious but slightly too sweet for our liking. I ordered the TNT cocktail, which was mezcal-based and definitely lived up to its name with its strong and bold flavors. Moving on to the appetizers, we tried the scallop crudo, which was hands down one of the best scallop dishes we've ever had. The combination of citrus flavors with shrimp chips was simply amazing. However, the shrimp toast was only average, and it reminded us of something you would find at a mid-tier sushi restaurant. For the main course, we shared the kare kare shortrib and crispy potatoes. The potatoes were crispy and paired perfectly with the creme fraiche, while the short ribs were incredibly tender. Although we expected the kare kare sauce to be a bit sweeter, it was still a good dish overall. Finally, we ordered dessert, which was a matcha mango mousse on the house for my birthday, and it was decent. However, the mango sticky rice was quite disappointing as it lacked flavor, was way too dense, and the mango/rice ratio overwhelmingly favored the rice. Overall, Animae is a decent restaurant with some fantastic dishes, but it also has some room for improvement. Nevertheless, the excellent service we received definitely made up for any shortcomings. read more

Animae has quickly become one of my favorite restaurants in San Diego. When my family came to visit my husband and me in San Diego, we decided to celebrate my mother's birthday there. We were excited to experience the Asian-inspired menu with its nods to Filipino cuisine. As we arrived at Animae in downtown, we were immediately captivated by the stunning decor, elegant tables, and inviting ambiance. Needless to say, we were not disappointed. We indulged in a variety of dishes from the menu, including the delectable Caviar Shrimp Toast, Lechon Kawali, Crispy Pig Ears, Short Rib Kare Kare, Pork Tomahawk Tocino, Hokkaido Scallops, Grilled Cabbage, Tuna Kinilaw, and garlic white rice. Out of all the dishes, my absolute favorite was the Pork Tomahawk Tocino. It was incredibly flavorful, tender, and simply delicious. I also thoroughly enjoyed the Crispy Pig Ears and the Caviar Shrimp Toast. For drinks, the Three for Tea, a delightful blend of Matcha, genmaicha-infused whisk, passion fruit, matcha, cold brew tea, mint, and lavender, was my favorite choice. Dining at Animae proved to be the perfect setting for a celebratory dinner with my husband, family, and me. I find myself daydreaming about the day we can return to Animae and savor our favorite dishes once more, while also exploring new delights on their ever-evolving menu. I highly recommend giving Animae a try, especially if you're in the mood for Asian-inspired cuisine with a focus on Filipino flavors. read more

I recently had the pleasure of dining at Animae, an Asian fusion restaurant, and I must say, the fusion of flavors was exceptional. The menu offers a wide range of options for side and appetizers and I highly recommend trying the wontons, Taiwanese chicken, and mantou steam buns. Each dish was packed with unique and delicious flavors that perfectly blended the best of Asian cuisine. The short rib Kare Kare is an absolute must-have. The tender short ribs paired with the rich and flavorful Kare Kare sauce created a mouthwatering combination that left me wanting more. It was truly a standout dish that I would highly recommend to anyone visiting Animae. However, while the food was exceptional, I found the service to be lacking. Considering the restaurant's aim to create a fine dining experience, I expected a higher level of attentiveness and professionalism from the staff. Unfortunately, there were instances where our server seemed disinterested and inattentive. It took quite some time for our orders to be taken, and we had to remind the staff about our requests on a few occasions.Additionally, the pacing of the meal felt rushed. Courses were brought out too quickly, leaving us feeling a bit overwhelmed. It would have been nice to have a more relaxed and leisurely dining experience, especially considering the prices of the dishes. Overall, if you're looking for a unique and flavorful dining experience, Animae is definitely worth a visit. read more

ANIMAE - A Dining Experience Like No Other, Believe Me! Folks, I've dined in the finest establishments worldwide--truly the best. But ANIMAE in San Diego? It's a whole new level. An Asian fusion restaurant, they say. I say, it's a culinary masterpiece. First, the ambiance. Absolutely stunning. Art Deco elegance with thick velvet curtains. Very luxurious, very classy. You walk in and think, "This place knows how to make a statement." Now, the food. Incredible. The Japanese A5 Wagyu? Melt-in-your-mouth perfection. They sear it over a Robata coal-fired grill, triple-searing each piece with salt, sake, and barrel-aged soy sauce. Unbelievable flavor. The Short Rib Kare Kare? A Filipino classic, modernized and elevated. Green beans, eggplant, peanut sauce--so much flavor, so much richness. You won't find this anywhere else. And the cocktails. Handcrafted, unique, refreshing. The A5 Old Fashioned with wagyu fat-washed bourbon? A game-changer. You've never had a drink like this, folks. The service? Top-notch. Attentive, knowledgeable, friendly. They make you feel like a VIP. They know their stuff, and they're proud of it. If you're in San Diego and you don't visit ANIMAE, you're missing out. Big mistake. Huge. Five stars. No, ten stars. The best dining experience, period. Would I go back? Absolutely. Maybe I'll even buy the place. Why not? Tremendous potential. Final Verdict: ANIMAE--Simply the greatest. Go there. Thank me later. read more

Animae is a restaurant that truly lives up to its reputation. While known for its Waygu beef, I opted for a different route, and it did not disappoint. The meal began with the hamachi crudo, which was beautifully balanced and served as an excellent palate opener. The freshness and subtlety of the flavors set a promising tone for the rest of the evening. The next dish was the Taiwanese chicken, Animae's delightful take on what I recognized as traditional Japanese karaage chicken. The Thai basil aioli that accompanied it was a perfect match, adding a fresh and aromatic touch that elevated the dish beyond expectations. From there, I moved on to the Szechuan sea bass and the braised beef cheek. Both were executed to perfection. The sea bass was tender and flavorful, with just the right amount of Szechuan spice, while the braised beef cheek was rich and melt-in-your-mouth good. These dishes highlighted the skill and creativity in Animae's kitchen, leaving me thoroughly impressed. To finish, I indulged in the chocolate cremeux, which was an explosion of flavor and texture. It was a decadent and satisfying end to an exceptional meal. The service throughout the evening was attentive and professional, adding to the overall excellence of the dining experience. Animae is a must-visit for anyone seeking a refined and memorable meal in San Diego. read more

We chose this restaurant for a birthday dinner, drawn by its reputation for exquisite cuisine and expecting a night of indulgence. The service throughout the evening was great--attentive and professional. However, despite having made a reservation and noting the occasion, we were seated at a small table top along the main hallway. This made the setting feel cramped, especially with barely enough space for all the plates and cups. The food, on the other hand, was truly remarkable and lived up to our high expectations. The Wagyu Miyazaki Tenderloin was a standout dish, so tender it practically melted in your mouth--a genuine testament to culinary excellence. The Szechuan Spicy Seabass also impressed us with its perfect blend of flavors and spices. While the cocktails were just okay and not memorable, the main courses certainly made up for it. Considering the price point of this classy establishment, a bit more attention to seating arrangements and overall guest experience would have enhanced the celebration. It didn't ruin our evening, but a better table would have made the expensive outing feel more worth it. Nonetheless, for the food alone, this restaurant remains a top choice for those looking to treat themselves to an exceptional meal. read more

I'd been eager to try Animae since their chef's James Beard win, and it exceeded all my expectations. We made a reservation for my birthday, and from the moment we were seated, the experience was fantastic. Our servers were incredibly nice and knowledgeable, giving detailed explanations of everything on the menu. The drinks, both alcoholic and non-alcoholic, were all great. My favorites were the mango royale and the sesame milk tea. Among the appetizers, the standout was the pig ear, salty and addictive, like popcorn. For our entrees, we tried the tocino, sea bass, and short rib. Each dish was a hit, but the sea bass and tocino were exceptional. The sea bass was so so spicy and yummy, and the tocino was cooked to perfection, with a sauce that took it to the next level. Dessert was a treat as well. We ordered four out of the five options available, and they were so amazing that the staff brought us the fifth dessert on the house, complete with a birthday candle. Overall, the experience was outstanding and left me wanting more in the best way possible. I can't wait to go back and try more dishes. The restaurant gets busy, so I definitely recommend making a reservation. read more

I took my wife here to celebrate our 23rd wedding anniversary, and unfortunately, the experience fell short of our expectations--especially given the media attention this restaurant has received. The ambiance suggested a formal dining experience, but the lack of an enforced dress code detracted significantly from the atmosphere. Several guests were dressed in gym attire and undershirts, which undermined the romantic setting we were hoping for. It was disappointing to be seated next to someone in a tank top during what was meant to be a special evening. As for the food, it may appeal more to out-of-town visitors or those unfamiliar with Filipino cuisine. The Japanese Wagyu was over-seasoned, masking the natural flavor of the beef and resulting in an overly salty dish. The Pork Tocino Tomahawk lacked depth of flavor--it appeared to have been glazed rather than properly marinated, and the fattiness of the cut overwhelmed the palate. On a positive note, the staff were attentive and professional throughout the evening. However, considering the overall experience and price point, this isn't a restaurant we're likely to return to frequently. read more