Joed's Lutong Hapon

CEBU, Philippines - Is your Cebuano tongue craving for something Japanese? Are you thinking of a warm bowl of Katsudon, rich in fine flavor that stays inside your mouth, letting every nook and cranny taste its unique zest? Oh, but wait, you get your wallet and see a measly hundred bucks bill. Boohoo. 

But don't you fret! Cebu's new popular dine-in destination can serve you the best Japanese cuisine in the metro without spoiling your budget! Joed's Lutong Hapon is a humble nook in Mabolo that would surely go beyond your expectations. Building up a household name in less than a year, Joed's Lutong Hapon boasts of its healthy (they only use rice wine, sesame oil, teriyaki sauce, etc…absolutely no MSG) and hearty Japanese options that unquestionably makes your tummy happy.

Edgar Malapita, the man behind Joed's amazing food, started the business when he realized Cebuanos have a liking for Japanese food, but it was beyond their budget. "Masyadong mahal ang mga Japanese restaurants dito. Ang price don sa Japan at dito, pare-pareho lang. Ang nakalagay pa na pangalan 'Izakaya', which basically means 'karenderya'. So barato."

Having finished a culinary course in the International Culinary School of Tokyo, he thought of opening up a Japanese restaurant that would cater not only to the Cebuano elite, but also, and most especially, to the masa. From this idea, Joed's Lutong Hapon was born.

Joed's opened on July 18, 2010 and in less than a year, people from different walks of life flocked to this niche to have a taste of its famous Japanese cuisine. From students and employees to local and national artists, Joed's has become a place to be for those who seek a taste of the Land of the Rising Sun. Edgar mans the restaurant together with his equally kitchen-savvy wife, Joanne. (That's why the place is called Joed's-from the owners' names, Joanne and Edgar.)

The Japanese taste is very different from what we Filipinos are used to, which is great especially if you're looking for a different feel for your mouth. Edgar explained that Japanese food has an after taste that allows the mouth to relish the diverse flavors that intertwine on your tongue – definitely an exciting way to enjoy food!

But the best part about eating at Joed's is that you get absolutely delectable Japanese meals even when you're on a tight budget. For just 65 pesos, you can get a delicious plate of California Maki. Or if you want to try one of Joed's house specialties, Sukiyaki-don, all you need is 95 pesos! All rice meals range from 65 pesos to 185 pesos, guaranteeing a happy and filled stomach.

Joed's Lutong Hapon is not your typical Japanese restaurant. Apart from its gloriously scrumptious food, the owners are too humble for words. Accommodating and friendly, Edgar welcomes his clients with perfected customer service and a sincere smile, making your dining experience at Joed's hundred percent fulfilling-heart-wise and stomach-wise.

Joed's Lutong Hapon will be moving to ENMore Residence Hall, beside Sacred Heart School - Hijas de Jesus, by next month to better serve their loyal customers in a bigger venue. But Edgar assures us that the prices won't change! The same mouth-watering and affordable Japanese food will be served to fill our stomachs. Store opens from 12nn to 2am. (FREEMAN)