Asian express

There’s more to Asian cuisine than meets the palate. The war of traditional versus contemporary, fusion versus pared-down, homecooking is being waged on stoves across the restaurant world. The verdict? Whether you opt for the simpler food offered at restaurants in The Block at SM City North Edsa or more high-brow fare, you’ll always come out the winner.

Chaikofi: Cool concept café

This Dutch café is Euro-Asian in origin, with its Dutch owner and its Asian menu, and offers all-day meals and snacks. Its stringent adherence to no msg/artificial flavors/preservatives makes it a favorite haunt of the preservative-conscious. Here, coffee is made using the siphon method and comes from a selection of Arabica beans from Brazil, Colombia and Holland. Downe Egberts, a Dutch coffee is a popular choice. Regulars can join the Chaikofi Flyer’s Club for freebies and other great options.

Chaikofi is located at 4/f The Block (tel. 494-5938).

Teriyaki Boy: California (maki) dreamin’

With a revamped menu, everyone’s favorite Japanese joint just got a little bit better. Order the chirashi don (P205) if you’re in the mood for healthy food. Teriyaki Boy staples like California maki and the signature Teriyaki Boy chicken don (P185), specially marinated boneless chicken, are tastier than ever.

Teriyaki Boy is located at 4/f The Block (tel. 442-0161).

Light and right at Phoviet Express

Authentic Vietnamese cuisine can be found right here. Find basil-infused soup ladled with a healthy helping of noodles, bean sprouts, and meat. The seafood is seasoned with Vietnam’s signature spices. While the food is certainly filling, it’s always light on the tummy — and wallet.

Phoviet Express   is located at 4/f The Block (tel. 442-0139).

A taste of Flavours of China

This Chinese resto doesn’t like to limit itself. With its mix of Chinese, Filipino, and American-inspired dishes, there’s something for everyone here. Their bestsellers include sizzling beef in Flavours steak sauce (P180), served piping hot, just the way you like it.

Flavours of China is located at 3/f The Block (tel. 442-0030).

Art of Zen at Kimono Ken

Modern authentic Japanese is the motto of this affordable resto. According to chef Danilo Esmeno, the food straddles the worlds of fusion and traditional cuisine. Start by ordering the Kimono Ken special (P75), a refreshing blend of mango and orange juice. The more adventurous forays into fusion include the asparagus mayo spaghetti (P190), consisting of crispy bacon bits, asparagus, and fresh soy beans sautéed in butter and a dash of Kikkoman, tossed with pasta and finished with Japanese mayo; and golden maki (P170), which is made with a thin layer of tamago instead of nori.

Kimono Ken  is located at 3/f The Block (tel. 442-0041).