Mandaluyong is turning out to be a great place for cafe hopping while riding a bike. Since I came from Rockwell crossing the recently opened Estrella-Pantaleon bridge, I was looking to find a nice place for coffee and snacks nearby. I saw Nihon Cafe just along the stretch of J.P. Rizal in Mandaluyong. Since I have a a penchant for anything Japanese, I found the place interesting to ride for.
Nihon Cafe Namayan
The Japanese-inspired Nihon Cafe as it turns out already have three branches – Shaw boulevard and Namayan in Mandaluyong. There’s also one in Cainta which turns out to be closer to my other place. I should try that sometime. On this visit, I dined at the one in Barangay Namayan in Mandaluyong.
Easy to spot as it is by the roadside and near the Baranggay Hall. I like their al-fresco setup. Surrounded by foliage with tables good for up to 4 person each. Though I imagine could be a little cramped if there are many people. Good thing there were only a few patron at that time.
There’s also a small dine-in area but the al fresco is a lot better for me.
Takoyaki
They have quite an extensive menu of Japanese dishes like karaage, rice meals and ramen. But I was just there for snack and I’m craving for a good Takoyaki. I ordered a 4-piece spicy Takoyaki for P70 pesos and was quite satisfied. Tasty sauce and fish flakes. Not all batter and the octopus meat wasn’t rubbery. Quite tasty too.
Dark Mocha
Since I just had a hot coffee a couple of hours before, I settled for an iced Dark Mocha. Iced drinks usually gets diluted with the melted ice in time. But this one retained its sharp chocolatey and coffee flavor long.
That was quite a promising first snack from them. I’m inclined to try the other offerings and branches in the future. Check them out here
Nihon Namayan
401 J. P. Rizal Brgay Namayan, Mandaluyong City
9:00 AM to 11:00 PM
Nihon Shaw Boulevard
246 J. Luna cor Shaw Boulevard, Mandaluyon City
11:00 AM to 11:00 PM
Nihon Cainta Junction
R. S. City Square, Ortigas Avenue Extension Junction
Cainta Rizal
11:00 AM to 11:00 PM
