Get ready for a flavor explosion as Uma Nota, a fusion haven combining Brazilian and Japanese influences, opens its doors in Manila on February 18th! After captivating Hong Kong and Paris diners, the restaurant arrives in the Philippines with partners Michael Needham and Amir Borsok.
Uma Nota’s menu celebrates diversity, seamlessly blending the best of both cultures to create unique and delicious dishes.
Located in Shangri-La the Fort, where the Ministry of Crab once resided, Uma Nota offers four distinct experiences:
- The Living Room: Immerse yourself in a chill atmosphere under a striking hanging tree installation, perfect for a relaxed dining experience.
- The Bar: Get social and lively with friends in this dedicated space ideal for cocktails and conversation.
- Tropicalia: Step back to the groovy 70s with vibrant decor and playful vibes.
- The Meiji Room: Pay homage to the rich history of Japanese migration to São Paulo in this elegant space.
Uma Nota promises an unforgettable culinary adventure, combining exquisite flavors with distinct spaces to suit your mood.
The Food
The launch of Uma Nota Manila was a sensory feast! As I mingled with fellow bloggers, the vibrant atmosphere hummed with excitement. We started with their signature cocktails, each bursting with unique flavor combinations.
Next came the appetizers: the Coxinhas de Frango boasted a perfectly crispy crust that gave way to tender, juicy chicken, while the Salmon Roll offered a refreshing coolness with its creamy filling.
For the main course, I couldn’t resist the A4 Kumo-oh Japanese Wagyu Striploin. It melted in my mouth like butter, each bite infused with a rich, smoky flavor. The garlic rice complemented it perfectly, and the side salad provided a welcome touch of lightness.
Dessert proved to be a bit more divisive. While the Abacaxi Churrasco offered a sweet and tangy pineapple glaze, I found it lacked the complexity of the Matcha Layered Cake, which boasted a delightful depth of flavor and a stunning presentation.
Uma Nota Manila Menu
Adding a flavorful twist to the rich legacy of Japanese migration to Brazil, Uma Nota has ingeniously crafted a menu that celebrates the fusion of traditional Japanese culinary techniques with the vibrant essence of Sao Paulo. Drawing inspiration from both worlds, their dishes showcase the finest seasonal and local ingredients, resulting in a delightful symphony of flavors that captivates discerning palates.
Glen Nomad is a travel blogger and the founder of Escape Manila, one of the top travel blogs in the Philippines. He has visited all 82 provinces in the Philippines and has explored 53 countries across Asia, North & South America, East Africa, Europe, and Australia. Follow him on IG at @escapemanila