November 15, 2024

HARU in Makati: Where You Can Get Authentic Korean Cuisine and Groceries

If you’ve been riding the Hallyu (Korean wave), without a doubt, you might be addicted to their food too. Initially, Korean restaurants in the Philippines primarily served Korean expatriates, but the bold flavors and communal dining style quickly captivated Filipino diners. As a result, samgyeopsal joints, street food stalls, and specialty grocery stores have popped across the country like mushrooms. For those in Cavite, we’re sharing a secret with you: HARU Korean Restaurant and Korean Grocery Store in Makati sets the bar high for this type of joint.

IMAGE from HARU Korean Restaurant and Korean Grocery Store Facebook page

It has a spacious interior with ample seating arrangements that can comfortably accommodate large groups of diners. The dining area has tables fitted with individual grill stations, perfect for grilling samgyeopsal and cooking shabu-shabu, and is complemented by a sleek aesthetic. Haru also has private rooms for more intimate celebrations.

IMAGE from HARU Korean Restaurant and Korean Grocery Store Facebook page

Their private rooms include VIP 15 and VIP 16 that can accommodate six (6) guests, and VIP 17, which fits up to 12 guests. The rate is a minimum spend of Php 1,000 per person on regular days (not for events), great for casual meals or intimate celebrations.

For larger groups, the entire restaurant, which can accommodate up to 60 guests, is also available for booking. The rates depend on the agreement and the food selections for your event.

IMAGE from HARU Korean Restaurant and Korean Grocery Store

To secure your reservation, a down payment is required, with flexible re-scheduling options up to three (3) days before the booked date (subject to availability). If you need to cancel, note that refunds will be in the form of food or product credit from Haru, and cancellations on the day of the event will result in forfeiture of the payment. The restaurant also reserves the right to cancel bookings if guests are absent for more than an hour without prior communication.

The restaurant is well-regarded for its diverse menu, offering a variety of traditional Korean dishes such as bibimbap, shabu-shabu, and the all-time Filipino favorite samgyeopsal.

Assorted Banchan / IMAGE from HARU Korean Restaurant and Korean Grocery Store

Much like hotpot, Haru’s budaejjigae or army stew is a comforting Korean soup that is perfect for sharing. The rich broth is filled with an eclectic mix of ingredients such as sausages, ribs, kimchi, tofu, baked beans, mushrooms, and instant noodles.

Budaejjigae / IMAGE from HARU Korean Restaurant and Korean Grocery Store Facebook page

Haru also offers haemul jjampong, a spicy Korean seafood noodle dish. It has a bright red, chili-infused broth packed with a variety of seafood like shrimp, squid, and mussels, vegetables such as mushrooms and onions, and of course, thick, chewy noodles. This is a filling soup that is perfect for chiliheads looking for a bit of kick in their meals.

Haemul Jjampong / IMAGE from HARU Korean Restaurant and Korean Grocery Store Facebook page

For samgyup fans, Haru has premium meats such as galbisal or beef rib fingers. Exceptionally tender and flavorful, it is served with mushrooms, green beans, onions, and potatoes which can be grilled alongside the meat.

Galbisal / IMAGE from HARU Korean Restaurant and Korean Grocery Store Facebook page

Aside from being an authentic Korean restaurant that offers quality and delicious meals, the place is also a grocery store where you can splurge on goods and products that can only be found in Korea such as ramyeon (instant noodles), chocolates, canned goods, alcohol, and many more.

IMAGE from HARU Korean Restaurant and Korean Grocery Store Facebook page

At Haru, diners can expect cheerful and attentive staff as well as a welcoming environment where they can enjoy authentic Korean cuisine (and buy imported Korean goodies!) while experiencing the communal dining culture that has become so beloved in the Philippines.