Uma Uma's Non-MSG Ramen in S'Maison, Conrad Manila
After a fun-filled afternoon spent in Dessert Museum (read more and see our craziness), we all felt like we needed to recharge (in other words, kailangang lumafang). Now, since we were all aware that restaurants in S'Maison may not be that affordable, we started re-evaluating other options. Fortunately, we realized that Uma Uma is listed in Eatigo, and upon finding out that we're going get a heft discount, we agreed to have our dinner there.
Casual and straight-forward interior
"What you see is what you get." That's how I'm going to describe the ambiance. In fact, there was not much element of "Japanese dining" present in the interior that will make you feel the theme. This, however, does not mean that the place is not great. In fact, we all felt comfy and cozy as we seated there.
Specialized menu - Ramen + Sides
The menu of Uma Uma is not as expansive as we initially thought. We were just given two laminated sheets for the menu. One is for the ramen and the other for the sides (includes skewers and sushi). The thing about specialized menu is that it heightens your expectation for the "chosen" dishes. Thankfully, our orders were able to satisfy.
The Spicy Karaage (P280) was something surprising as it has the aroma and taste of a buffalo wing. The main difference is that, well, it's karaage! The crispiness was different, and the texture had a combination of something crisp and simultaneously tender (for the meat). It's interesting, but it may not necessarily win your heart. Still, worth the exploration!
The Garlic Ramen (P370) had this smooth and surprisingly creamy broth that playfully tickled our buds. Also, the garlic was not too overwhelming which allowed us not to easily tire of the flavor.
The Spicy Chasiu Ramen (P390), in my opinion, was more superior than the Garlic Ramen, but two of my friends beg to differ -- making us tied at 2-2. I just loved how it had the right amount of spiciness (which was more of a flavor than a sensation). It was also similarly refreshing with the balanced flavors in the broth. I guess that what happens when there are no MSGs added.
Overall, I would say that this ramen house is perfect for those who just want something balanced and light for their palate. Now, if you are in a mood for very "rich" and "sinful" ramen, then you can defer dining here and just check it out when your cravings shift.
Uma Uma - Overall Ratings and Summary
Note: Unshaded stars are equivalents of half-stars. The ratings reflect my personal experiences on the times I dine here.
Place ★★★★
Taste ★★★★★
Service ★★★★
Value for Money ★★★★★
Budget: at least P200 each (with eatigo) or P300 each (without eatigo) for a sharing type of experience with ramen and a side dish for a group of at least 4
No. of visits for this particular restaurant/branch - 1 || Date of last visit - April 29, 2018
Uma Uma certainly did not disappoint. Well, it may not be the best-tasting ramen, but it was perhaps the "most-refreshing" one I had. The absence of the MSG and the ease in the salt gave us this "suave" taste in every sip. The broth didn't give any stinging effect on the tongue which is why it's a "painless" way of eating a ramen. The ambiance may lack the traditional Japanese novelty, but it was casual and chill. Servers are also generally warm and responsive. On top of all, you won't have to break the bank dining here unlike other restaurants found in the same mall. Two-thumbs up!
Discounts via Eatigo
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Uma Uma
Location: Level 2, S Maison, Conrad Manila, Seaside Boulevard Corner Coral Way, Mall of Asia Complex (MOA), Pasay City
Service Charge: 10% before VAT
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