Gindaco in Pasay: Your Favorite Takoyaki Joint in Japan, Now in SM Mall of Asia
Takoyaki, one of Japan’s most beloved street foods, is a savory snack made from a light, wheat-flour batter cooked in special molded pans to create perfectly round, bite-sized balls. Inside each golden orb is a tender piece of octopus (tako in Japanese) along with green onions, pickled ginger, and crunchy tempura bits that add texture.
IMAGE from Philippine Primer
Once cooked to a crisp exterior while remaining soft and creamy within, the takoyaki is generously brushed with tangy takoyaki sauce, drizzled with mayonnaise, and sprinkled with aonori (seaweed flakes) and bonito flakes. Originating in Osaka, the dish has become an icon of Japanese street culture, enjoyed at festivals, markets, and specialty shops across the country and now around the world.
This includes Manila, Philippines, as Gindaco opens its first store at SM Mall of Asia!
IMAGE from Philippine Primer
Gindaco offers four tempting takoyaki varieties to choose from, starting with the Original Takoyaki, a classic favorite. The takoyaki is drizzled with Gindaco’s signature sauce, then topped with dried green seaweed and delicate, dancing bonito flakes for that authentic finish.
Guests can enjoy this staple in three serving sizes: 4 pieces for Php 199, 6 pieces for Php 299, or 8 pieces for Php 399, making it easy to savor whether you’re snacking solo or sharing with friends.
Original Takoyaki (Php 299/6pcs.) / IMAGE from Philippine Primer
Next on the menu is the Teritama Takoyaki, a flavorful twist on the classic. This version is drizzled with rich teriyaki sauce and creamy Japanese mayo, then topped with freshly made egg salad, dried green seaweed, and bonito flakes for a savory, indulgent finish.
It’s available in servings of 4 pieces (Php 249), 6 pieces (Php 349), or 8 pieces (Php 449), perfect for those craving a unique and satisfying take on takoyaki.
IMAGE from Gindaco Philippines’ Facebook page
The Mentai Cheese Takoyaki is a must-try for all cheese lovers! This indulgent version features a rich blend of cod roe mixed into Japanese mayo and soy sauce, then topped with gooey mozzarella, a sprinkle of parmesan, and a hint of dried parsley for that added depth of flavor and irresistible creaminess.
This is also available in three sizes with 4 pieces priced at Php 319, 6 pieces for Php 469, and 8 pieces for Php 539.
IMAGE from Philippine Primer
Last, but certainly not least, is the Triple Cheese Takoyaki, featuring a decadent blend of mozzarella, red cheddar, and parmesan. This rich, melty trio is layered over takoyaki with a perfectly crisp exterior and a soft, fluffy center, making it an irresistible choice for cheese enthusiasts.
The Triple Cheese Takoyaki is priced at Php 329 for 4 pieces, Php 479 for 6 pieces, and Php 549 for 8 pieces.
The secret behind Gindaco’s signature takoyaki flavor lies in their Nambu cast iron pans, meticulously handcrafted by skilled artisans. These premium plates retain intense heat and distribute it evenly, ensuring each takoyaki develops a perfectly crisp exterior and creamy center—a texture that ordinary iron plates simply can’t replicate.
With Gindaco’s attention to detail, they are poised to become a favorite among many takoyaki lovers in Metro Manila!