Restaurant Review: Umi Japanese Cuisine at Bay Hotel Sibu

Umi Japanese Kitchen: Where modern Japanese elegance meets Cebuano warmth

Located on the ground floor of bai Hotel Cebu in Mandaue, Ume Japanese Cuisine offers a peaceful escape from the endless energy of the city. The restaurant welcomes diners with simple décor, elegant wooden beams, neatly arranged furniture and walls decorated with subtle Japanese motifs. Soft lighting casts a gentle golden glow, while the delicious scent of seafood blends with the faint sweetness of polished wood. When you cross the threshold, you are immediately surrounded by a harmonious blend of clean, linear design and soothing earth tones. Evoking a relaxed, intimate atmosphere, the ambiance evokes the laid-back sophistication of a traditional Japanese restaurant mixed with contemporary flair.

Atmosphere and ambiance

The atmosphere at Ume is distinctly Zen, modern yet relaxed. The tables are well spaced out for privacy, and the seating – both the sushi bar and the main dining area – feels comfortable and upscale. The lighting is soft and diffuse, creating a warm, golden glow that enhances the overall dining experience. Gentle background music, often instrumental or jazz-infused, complements the quiet environment without overpowering the conversation.

Dining experience and menu highlights

Ume’s menu showcases a thoughtful balance between classic Japanese cuisine and innovative contemporary dishes. The range extends from fresh sashimi and signature rolls to ramen, donburi and grilled selections. What stands out most is Umi’s attention to presentation – each dish appears artistically composed, with a careful balance of colors and meticulous plating that reflects true Japanese craftsmanship.

Highlight the list

Creamy takoyaki

Ume’s Takoyaki features a golden, slightly crunchy crust enveloping a tender and flavorful interior. With every bite, you will experience the harmonious combination of the creamy mixture and the soft pieces of octopus inside. The takoyaki is generously drizzled with an absolutely delicious, silky sauce and topped with a shower of bonito flakes that gently ripple and twist from the heat, enhancing the sensory experience. Decadent and carefully portioned, this comfort food will leave you feeling satisfied and happy.

Hani Gyoza

This dish is a feast for both the eyes and the palate. The gyoza are beautifully arranged, held together by an intricate golden “wing” of crunchy batter known as hain. This delicate lace provides a crunchy front, leading to a chewy dumpling shell below. As you eat, you discover an interior filled with delicious, well-marinated pork filling, which has hints of ginger, garlic and scallions. The contrast between the crisp exterior and the delicious filling creates an unforgettable and satisfying dining experience.

Nature’s spring roll

The maki roll is a delightful combination of crispy tempura shrimp and delicious crab sticks, beautifully wrapped in rice and nori. They’re enhanced with a generous drizzle of rich, salty unagi sauce and topped with a layer of lightly torched cream cheese for a smoky finish.

California Kanye Salad

A beautifully presented salad that balances creaminess and freshness. Crunchy slices of cucumber and mango complement the sweet kane and Japanese mayonnaise, while tobiko adds a subtle hint of saltiness.

Tantanmen ramen

This ramen delivers a rich and spicy experience, enhanced by a luxuriously creamy broth infused with a light, nutty sesame essence. The springy noodles completely absorb the broth and retain a satisfying bite. Each bowl is crowned with flavorful ground pork, a poached egg with a molten golden center, and a vibrant splash of chili oil. Every spoonful envelops you in comforting warmth and bold, layered flavors.

Matcha gelato

A perfect conclusion, this dessert has a luxuriously smooth texture with just the right hint of bitterness, elegantly offset by subtle sweetness. Its vibrant green color and lingering, earthy matcha aroma draw you in, while each creamy spoonful delivers green flavors that cleanse and invigorate the palate after a rich meal.

Display and aesthetics

Every dish at Ume feels like a carefully crafted work of art – meticulously and simply arranged but refined and carefully balanced in flavor and appearance. Elegant ceramic dishes, chosen to complement each menu item, set the stage for attractive, fresh ingredients that are meticulously placed. Subtle garnishes, such as herbs or finely chopped vegetables, add subtle color and visual interest. The presentation elevates every bite, inviting admiration before tasting.

Even casual dishes like takoyaki are transformed with an artistic touch—perfectly golden, carefully drizzled with sauce, and topped with delicate bonito flakes—making them as visually appealing as they are delicious. Each dish becomes Instagram-worthy, achieving an artistic feel without feeling forced or pretentious.

Quality of service

The service at Ume thoughtfully reflects the restaurant’s relaxed atmosphere – the staff are attentive, polite, and careful to remain unobtrusive. When diners arrive, they are greeted warmly, adding a positive and inviting tone to the meal. Throughout the dining experience, staff check in at appropriate time intervals, maintaining a sense of presence without intrusion. Even when the restaurant is busy, the food arrives within a reasonable time frame, and the servers consistently demonstrate calm professionalism.

I politely asked if I could take pictures near the chef’s table while the food was being prepared. He graciously allowed me to take photos and videos.

During my recent visit, our server impressed us with his detailed knowledge of the menu. After we were warmly welcomed, they engaged in a friendly discussion about the ramen offerings, breaking down the different options and carefully describing the tonkotsu, shoyu, and specialty ramen, including ingredients, broth styles, and recommended toppings. They enhanced our decision-making process by identifying the most popular dishes and making suggestions based on our preferences.

I ordered the Tantanmen Ramen and asked for the spice level to be reduced. My request was fulfilled perfectly, and the server was great.

It was clear that their service extended beyond basic courtesy, reflecting a genuine interest and desire to provide a personalized dining experience. This thoughtful and informed approach made our dinner at Ume particularly memorable and enjoyable.

Overall impression

Umi Japanese cuisine stands out by fusing authentic Japanese flavors with contemporary presentation and exceptional Cebuano hospitality. The menu offers a mix of classic Japanese cuisine, from expertly prepared sushi and sashimi to delicious ramen and innovative dishes. Each dish is carefully crafted and beautifully plated, appealing to the palate and the eye. Service here is attentive and professional, with staff willing to make thoughtful recommendations based on guests’ preferences. The restaurant’s modern and sophisticated interiors, highlighted by warm lighting and minimalist décor, create an inviting atmosphere well suited for romantic dinner dates and small group gatherings. Rather than competing with the food, Umi’s elegant atmosphere enhances the overall dining experience.

If there’s a slight downside, it’s that the place – although tastefully designed – can sometimes seem a bit quiet, especially during off-peak hours when there are fewer tables occupied. However, this tranquility means that Omi also serves as an ideal retreat for those who crave a quiet, relaxing dining environment on the ground floor of a busy hotel.

Omi Japanese Cuisine – Registration Summary

Omi Japanese Cuisine
Location: Ground Floor, Bay Cebu Hotel, Owano Street, Cor Sino Avenue, North Reclamation Area, Mandu City, Philippines
Phone: (032) 888 2500
Email: fbreservation@baihotel.com.ph
Facebook page: /umejapanesecuisine

Judgment

At Ume Japanese Cuisine located in Bai Hotel Cebu, diners are treated to more than just a meal – it’s a complete sensory journey into the art of Japanese cooking. The serene atmosphere has subtle touches: minimalist décor, soft lighting, and soothing music that transports guests together to Japan.

From delicious steamed ramen to beautifully arranged sushi, each dish reflects traditional techniques and creative presentation. The service is remarkably warm and attentive, making every guest feel cared for. Whether you’re looking for a comforting, filling meal or the visual art of well-crafted sushi, Umi guarantees a refined and relaxing dining occasion.

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It reads: Hotel review: Bay Hotel Cebu