Moum - Contemporary Korean Cuisine in Poblacion, Makati (new)

Re-discovering my love for Poblacion

You may have observed that I haven't been much active participating in restaurant invites lately. That may have been quite intentional, and perhaps even circumstantial, as a self-proclaimed 'has been'. However, when I received an invitation to check out a Korean restaurant called "Moum" in Poblacion, I went all ears, and I grabbed the opportunity.

Poblacion has so much potential, and I feel like there could be something more to it. That it can move beyond the point of being known just for nightlife fun. There's a longing in me to see Poblacion evolve into a true community. Something that is focused on genuine warmth and connection. Elements that truly allow it to be a sanctuary amid the city chaos. 

At some point Poblacion made some progress there, but pandemic hindered and even reversed most of the steps made, but I see efforts gradually resuming and allowing things to set pace once again, which is why hearing about Moum, as it opens its doors to provide a new concept in the area, just made my heart leap. 

Opening its doors in the evolving community in Poblacion

Introducing Moum - Korean Composed Dining

Moum is situated just a few walks away from Commune, a cafe that I personally adore in Poblacion. Moum is specifically nestled in Durban St., just beside a Korean KTV hub. You'll know you reached the place when you see a casual pair of wooden doors (see photo above) below the signage of the restaurant.

Upon entry, you'll be greeted by this modern minimalist look. I'm not sure yet whether this is intentional, but I do feel like there are empty spaces that still need to be muted out, or embellished with some pop of color. Still, there is friendly warmth in it, and there are moments when it felt like I'm dining inside a friend's home.

The second floor of Moum gives a nod to Poblacion's al fresco culture 

I toured the place out and went up the second floor, and this particular area right here (photos above) became my instant favorite. This for me attunes to the vibe of Poblacion, centralizing on easygoing alfresco dining, basking on the simplicity of the neighborhood. One cool thing here is they offer these drinks called Makgolli Shakes (mixture of soju and cultured milk), which I envision being enjoyed right here.

Makgolli Shakes are best enjoyed at the al fresco section in upper floor of Moum

What to expect in Moum?

Let's jump into the heart of Moum, the food itself. For starters, we were served this Truffle Potato Jeon (P380) and Meringue Tteokbokki (P650).

Prices are as of August 9, 2026

Truffle Potato Jeon (left) and Meringue Tteokbokki (right)

The Truffle Potato Jeon was a fantastic starter, something that really jolts the palate awake. I know truffle is no longer a huge trend unlike before, but there was still this wow-factor over this dish. The crispiness of the fried potatoes blended well with spices and then the truffle dip just finished the touch. A definite must-try! 

The Galbi Tang (P700) was a silent stunner. When I was looking at it the first time, I expected it to be ordinary. I was too boastful of myself thinking, 'Oh, I've seen and tasted this before, and for sure this is going to be just okay'. But this dish humbled me down to the core, because this is in fact, the dish I liked the most among all that I tried that lunch. The meat was so tender that it easily fell off the bone. The soup on its own may appear 'bland' at first, but wait until you mix the homemade sauce (tangy and zesty) that comes along with it to activate the depth and multitude of flavors. I'd literally go back for this!

Some of the dishes here include the Bibimbap, among others, and they also offer set meals that are hefty enough to fill the tummy while still giving a delectable experience. I won't dive much on these as I'd like to focus on the dishes I highlighted in this post.

A classic Korean rice bowl served in sizzling hot stone pot with seasoned vegetables, beef, egg & red pepper paste

Moum's Bibimbap

Moum serves Lunch Sets called "Bansan" and they range from P500 and already contain a complete serving of appetizers, veggies, rice and chosen meat.

Spicy Stir-Fried Pork Bansan (Set Meal)

Jumping into the main event, one of Moum's signature dishes is the Sous Vide Samgyup (P1,500). Savory and a bit smokey.

The soon-to-be-famous Sous Vide Samgyup of Moum

For the Sous Vide Samgyup, the mustard and wasabi sauces make the dish stand out. They really bring out the goodness of the flavors that are deeply locked into the sous vide'd meat. This was such a unique dish, and this made me realize that Moum has certain mastery over the sauces. They just have a way with creating and/or selecting the best sauce that will make their dishes more alive and vibrant in flavors. 

If they find a way to make this more tender that what we had, this will surely be even more epic, and perhaps may even steal the top spot from Galbi Tang.

Moum in a nutshell

Moum hits the right spots. It has the making of a restaurant that is built upon genuine passion. The dishes are well thought of, and the concepts are deliberate. I value establishments that do not just go with the trends, and make room for making an intentional vision come to life. For that, I give Moum my deepest respect, and I wish them great success.

The restaurant is still in its soft opening (as of writing on August 2026), so there are unquestionably areas of improvements. However, there is a great potential for this to be culinary gem, especially for those who either like exploring new things, or into Korean cuisine. Let's all support this restaurant, and visit them in Poblacion, Makati!

Visit Moum at 4898 Durban, Poblacion, Makati City, 1210 Metro Manila or call at +639660753666.