'Easy Japanese' restaurant concept Don Don Tei opens in Manila
Osaka's finest Donburi
By MB Lifestyle

This March, Manila welcomes Don Don Tei, a new Japanese restaurant from Osaka. Situated at Robinsons Galleria in Quezon City (ADB Wing), it offers authentic Japanese rice bowl specialties tailored to the local taste, promising convenience and affordability.

“The arrival of Don Don Tei (also known as Kineya Don Don Tei) in the Philippines furthers Gourmet Kineya's dedication to sharing the joy of simple, delicious, and affordable meals with the world,” says Hideto Nishijima, Managing Director of Business Strategy and Planning, speaking on behalf of Gourmet Kineya, CEO Atsushi Mukumoto.
“As we prepare to welcome our diners in Robinsons Galleria, we promise a dining experience that combines the best of Japanese tradition and flavors that Filipino foodies will keep coming back to. And with the Filipinos love for Japanese food, we are already looking forward to opening in more locations soon,” added Hideto Nishijima.

A menu tailored for the Philippine market
At the heart of Don Don Tei's menu, is Donburi, a beloved Japanese comfort food. These rice bowls are topped with a variety of ingredients, ranging from beef and pork to fish and chicken, each cooked in unique sauces that highlight the essence of Japanese cuisine.
Experience the crunch of Tempura Specials like their Special Ebi Tendon with Black Tiger Prawns and Kakiage Ebi Tendon. Indulge in savory Beef Selections such as Gyudon, Wagyu Yakiniku Don, and Sukiyaki Jyu. Savor Pork Delights like Katsudon and Tonkatsu Don, or opt for Fish Selections such as Unajyu and Grilled Mackerel. Chicken lovers can feast on Oyakodon, Chicken Karaage Don, and more.

"At Don Don Tei, we're not just serving food; we're delivering an experience. Every donburi ordered comes with miso soup, offering our guests a taste of Japanese hospitality. For those seeking a more comprehensive dining experience, we offer the option to upgrade their donburi to a Teishoku version, which comes with an ensemble of side dishes including potato salad, green beans and carrots kobachi, and Tsubozuke pickles," Hideto Nishijima said.
Don Don Tei offers a diverse menu featuring Soba, renowned for its health benefits. Guests can enjoy hot or cold options, including hearty Niku Soba with beef slices, organic egg yolk, and spring onion for a unique flavor experience. Additionally, they introduce refreshing citrus drinks from the Yuzu series, including Peach, Raspberry, Rose Lemonade, and Ginger Beer. With authentic recipes and proprietary sauces, Don Don Tei Philippines guarantees an experience faithful to the beloved flavors of Japan.

Gourmet Kineya: A legacy of authentic Japanese cuisine
Don Don Tei, meaning "Rice Bowl House," originated in Abeno, Osaka, in November 1988. Starting as a modest 14-seat bar, it has expanded into a beloved chain with locations in Hong Kong, the United States, and now the Philippines. Known for its wide variety of donburi, it's a go-to destination for those craving Osaka's finest rice bowls.
Its parent company, Gourmet Kineya, established in 1967, has been a pioneer in bringing authentic Japanese cuisine to diners. With over 400 shops across Japan, the company prioritizes simplicity, convenience, taste, and affordability. These principles not only shape the brand's dining experience but also drive its international expansion, including the eagerly awaited arrival of Don Don Tei in the Philippines.

Marissa So, Executive Vice President of Oishi Gourmet Foods, Inc., the company that franchised Don Don Tei, further revealed that the team at Don Don Tei, from the kitchen to the service staff, has undergone rigorous training with Japanese experts. “The high-quality ingredients, from the sauces to the meats, and even the presentation of every bowl, have been strictly supervised to meet the company's high standards. This commitment ensures that each dish served not only tastes authentic but also represents the meticulous care and attention to detail that Japanese cuisine is known for.”