A Japanese culinary wonderland can be found right in the heart of Clark, promising a quality taste of Japan with a touch of Kapampangan artistry.
Kerubin Izakaya, a Japanese pub restaurant, is a collaboration between Yoshimasa Ogishima, a seasoned Japanese entrepreneur, and Kelvin Mark Patawaran, a talented Kapampangan chef.
Meet the Minds Behind Kerubin Izakaya
Yoshimasa Ogishima, a 39-year-old businessman, hails from a family that owns a wasabi farm in Shizuoka Prefecture. Ogishima’s entrepreneurial journey extends beyond agriculture, as he runs a successful real estate business in Tokyo and is a respected judo player. Based in Hong Kong, he operates Ippon Sushi and Koyukan Judo Club.
Kelvin Mark Patawaran, a 31-year-old self-taught chef, graduated with a degree in Bachelor of Science in Hotel and Restaurant Management from the Angeles University Foundation. His passion for culinary arts and dedication to his craft have culminated in this exciting partnership, bringing a unique dining experience in the heart of Clark.
Trying Their Dishes
During our visit, I began with their Roasted Edamame (soybean). Interestingly, I liked the toasty-smokey flavors of it.
Next was a piece of the Chicken Kara-age and I noted its moist and flavorful meaty core. Their tuna and salmon sashimi were next in line. They served it with freshly grated wasabi (not the usual powder base). The plump meat of the salmon married well with the surprisingly sweet tones of the natural wasabi.
The Tamagoyaki (egg) has a firm texture, yet the layers of seasoning and eggy-umami flavors played on my tastebuds. Unique is their California Sushi Bowl – a deconstructed style of the roll version – putting all elements together in a spoonful, exploding in a cacophony of familiar flavors.
One must take advantage of their grilled choices. They serve Enoki Maki Kushiyaki, grilled meat-wrapped mushrooms, and their Negima Yakitori, oozing with beautifully charred-sweetness at its crust.
Of course, I didn’t leave without trying their soup bowls – Ramen is life, as I would always say. The noodles were house-made, with a nice and pleasant chewy texture, and the soup was divinely good – each spoonful featured bold meaty-umami-boney flavors transcribed into one punch of deep layered tastes.
Visit Kerubin Izakaya
Located at Stall 25, Lilly Hill Commercial Complex, C.M. Recto, Clark Freeport Zone, Pampanga, Kerubin Izakaya operates from Tuesday to Sunday, 12NN to 9PM. For inquiries or reservations, you can reach them via email at kerubinizakaya.clark@gmail.com.
