Dining at Yappari Steak Felt Like a Mini Trip to Japan—Here’s Why

We tried Yappari Steak and here’s what we think…

Oh, Cebu—an island packed with experiences, from travel spots and rich culture to all the must-try food waiting around every corner! And when it comes to food, it’s not just the local favorites that shine as it’s also where international flavors rise to transport you elsewhere, like the famous Japanese steak grilled over sizzling lava stones.

What It Feels Like to Dine At Yappari Steak sa Tops

Daghan kaayog food and dining options sa Tops Cebu, but we chose to try Yappari Steak because we heard a lot over the grapevine about it. And so, our experience began when the sunset colored the skies of Cebu’s skyline.

With no expectations (and honestly, a little steak snobbery in us), we weren’t sure what would set this place apart from the many we’ve already tried across the city. But spoiler alert: we left impressed—and full.

First things first, the location and vibe.

Yappari Steak enjoys one of the best seats in the house; literally. It’s located at Tops where you have the option to dine al fresco to take full advantage of the cool breeze and the unobstructed skyline. We were also immediately greeted by the staff who were gracious from the get-go. They even rearranged tables so our group could stay together comfortably. Service? Beyond expectations already! Friendly, warm, and efficient; something you don’t always get when you’re dining uphill.

Taste Test: we ordered the entire menu!

No kidding, we couldn’t decide. So instead of playing favorites, we got decided to have everything from the menu, and here’s what we think:

Beef Curry Rice

One word: COMFORTING! That’s what we felt when we took a spoonful of the Beef Curry Rice. Not to mention, it is such a tasty dish and hits just the right spot for a Japanese-style curry.

Beef Stewed Tendon Rice

Surprisingly, this dish stood out and it’s one of the favorites from our team. Why? Well, because of its melt-in-your-mouth texture paired with its savory flavor; and we Filipinos love our intense savory-style items, right?

Chicken Steak

Definitely not your typical chicken dish. Their Chicken Steak was perfectly cooked and well-seasoned. So, if you have a non-beef eater friend, you can still bring them to Yappari and not worry about what they’ll be having. 

Hamburger Steak

Honestly, this was the first thing that caught our eyes as soon as the dishes were served on the table. It just had that look of a juicy and flavorful burger that you’d love to dig into immediately! And it did not disappoint, too! It’s a legit Japanese hambāgu.

Mix Cut Steak

For the indecisive: the Mix Cut Steak is a sampler that lets you taste several cuts. Want the one with a bit of fat? Then you got it! Want the lean parts? Then you have that, too! All of which are well-seasoned and served in cubes.

Karubi Steak

Tender and flavorful, this one won major points with our table.

And of course, the Yappari Steak (Top Blade)

Sizzling over authentic and premium Lava stone that came from Mt. Fuji, the signature Yappari Steak, was the star of the show! When it was served, the dish was a full-on sensory experience since you can hear it, smell it, and taste the flavors of Japan right in front of you. We ordered the medium rare steak and we were delightfully greeted with the right amount of seasoned juicy slices!

Bringing Okinawan Lava Stone Grilling to Cebu

Since opening last May 5, 2024 at The Circle in TOPS, Cebu City, Yappari Steak has been killing it; which explains why they’ve already launched another branch at SM JMall and even expanded to Cebu IT Park, setting up at AsiaTown, Skyrise 3, inside the Qualfon Building. This move brings their one-of-a-kind lava stone grilling experience closer to the city’s business district, making it super convenient for professionals and foodies to get a taste.

Whether you’re a steak lover, a fan of Japanese flavors, or just looking for a spot to impress friends, Yappari Steak is worth the drive, be it uphill to TOPS, at the city center at IT Park, or to another city at SM JMall. Just be sure to come hungry, arrive curious, and maybe… come before sunset.

RATES & OTHER INFORMATION

OTHER INFORMATION

HOW TO GET THERE?

TOPS Branch Location: Cebu Tops Rd, Cebu City, Cebu, Philippines

  • By Car: Navigate via Waze or Google Maps and pin “TOPS Cebu” as your destination. Once you arrive, head straight to The Circle. As you walk through the first row of restaurants, you’ll spot Yappari Steak right away—it’s one of the first places on the left side of the entryway.
  • By Commute: Head to the IT Park Terminal and take the TOPS Cebu shuttle. The fare is Php 200.00 which already includes the entrance at TOPS and your return ride.

IT Park Branch Location: AsiaTown, Skyrise 3, Qualfon Building, Cebu I.T. Park, Cebu, Philippines

  • By Car: Navigate via Waze or Google Maps and pin “Skyrise 3 IT Park” or “Yappari Steak IT Park” as your destination. 
  • By Commute: From the Cebu IT Park Transport Terminal, turn left onto V. Padriga Street, then turn right onto W. Geonzon Street. From there, continue to head southwest and you’ll spot the Yappari Steak restaurant in the area.

SM JMall Branch Location: 165 A. S. Fortuna St, Mandaue City, Cebu, Philippines

  • By Car: Navigate via Waze or Google Maps and pin “SM JMall” as your destination. Once you arrive, locate the Lower Ground Floor where the restaurant is.
  • By Commute: From Cebu City, you can take jeepney routes that pass through AS Fortuna Street in Mandaue and inform the driver that you’ll be dropping off at SM JMall. 

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Lenie Lañojan
Lenie Lañojan

Editor
"Everyone deserves a chance to fly" - WICKED
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