CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT: (1) Morimoto door. (2) Restaurant design. (3) Toro Tartare. (4) Dessert, Matcha Tres Leches. (5) Yuzu Meringue Tart. (6) Pork Belly Ramen.
 

Morimoto, Philadelphia

I couldn’t stand the humidity in New York this Memorial Day weekend so I hopped on a bus and got myself back to Philadelphia as quickly as I can. I realized that Morimoto was open on Memorial Day so I scooted my way to Center City to take advantage of the lunch menu. It’s less expensive yet the quality of food is still first rate.
 
I liked the toro taretare the best – decadent in a healthy way. I was instructed to eat the small plum as a palate cleanser.
 
The pork belly ramen was really hearty. However, I didn’t like the noodles that much. The texture reminded me of those nissin ramen noodle packets in college. I’m sure the noodles were made in house. But, the tightness of the curls brought back images of those $1 packets.  If I’m paying around $20/bowl, a mental image of those $1 packets is not good.
 
The ishi yaki bop rice is Morimoto’s version of the korean bi bim bap. It’s a real indulgence. How often do you get to be served table side for just $28/bowl. I think that’s reasonable.
 
The desserts were ok, interesting combination of flavors. They were not too sweet. The yuzu meringue tart’s side of fruit had a lot of tartness.
 
Verdict: A bit on the expensive side but you know you won’t get disappoointed – just don’t order sushi.
 

ISHI YAKI BOP RICE DISH

Prepared table side in a hot river stone bowl. This is the king yellowtail option. You can request your server to cook the sashimi slices medium rare.