YAYOI SM Megamall — Restaurant in Mandaluyong

We went during lunchtime and were on the waiting list for 3 people. I actually saw that my name was written on the list. We understood that it would take a while since it was around lunchtime. We could already see how busy it was, with a server running left and right to serve other guests. So, we waited patiently, knowing that this is a peak time for restaurants. Later, we were accommodated by that server and added to the waiting list.

While waiting, we noticed that some employees were outside (on the left side of the restaurant), seemingly having a meeting. It’s likely that the servers assigned to their designated areas returned afterward.

Now going back, we had been waiting for a while and saw that other people were being seated. Eventually, we noticed that guests who arrived after us were getting in before us.

When we followed up, it seemed that we had either been skipped on the list or that there was a different list managed by the initial server who took our name.

The first thing the new server asked was who had listed us. Take note that we had already been waiting for quite some time.. why ask that instead of focusing on getting us a seat first? Sadly, there was no apology. It felt like, "I wasn’t there, so it’s not my fault."

Anyway, since the group seats were already taken, we were asked if we could sit at the solo tables, which we agreed to. By this time, we were already hungry and frustrated with what had happened. But then, the server even asked if we needed a high chair. I’m not sure why she even asked when my daughter was literally seated in their waiting area, which had a table. Did she not see if my daughter could even fit in a high chair? I think even a 7 yrs old can't fit there (my daughter is 9 btw). That moment tested my patience even further.

Alright, we finally got in, the ordering process was explained, and we started eating. I appreciated that while we were eating, one of the servers checked on us, asked if we had any concerns, inquired about the food, and later asked if we had any pending orders. I mentioned that we had a "serve later" order for a matcha parfait, and she proceeded to follow up. It took a while, and we started wondering if there was another miscommunication.

We followed up with another server, who told us that it would take around 5-8 minutes. We understood that some orders take time, but it would have been appreciated if we were informed in advance instead of being left wondering when it would arrive.

The food we ordered was good, but the service experience today left a negative impression. It may take some time before we consider coming back, but hopefully, the service will improve.

Suggestions: Meeting Timing. To whoever is in charge of scheduling meetings: Please do not hold meetings during busy hours unless absolutely necessary. If it’s urgent, consider splitting the team into two batches so service is not affected. The servers covering for colleagues are already dealing with a hectic time, and it adds unnecessary stress. This can also help prevent miscommunication when serving customers.

Prioritizing Solutions. Please avoid asking unnecessary questions, especially when dealing with customers who have already experienced delays. Just focus on solving the problem as quickly as possible. No one knows what the customer has been through.. imagine, what if this was their first meal of the day? Patience wears thin in those situations.

Accountability. Even if the inconvenience was caused by a different server, every action taken by an employee reflects on the restaurant. A simple acknowledgment of the issue and an apology is a good customer experience.

Order Delays. If an order is going to take a while, kindly inform customers so they know what to expect. Please don’t leave us waiting without...

We were here just after the mall opened in the morning, and so we were one of the first customers of the day, and the place was not yet busy. I like that they have touchscreens located on each table where customers can browse through the menu, place orders, monitor the status of their orders, and even submit feedback. The food is okay, and I think pricing is reasonable enough. Likewise, food presentation and serving size are okay with me. The staff are corteous and accommodating too. There was a little misunderstanding with one of our orders. It slipped my mind to request that they don't put mayonnaise on my yakisoba. We had placed our order, and it was already several minutes later when I was able to inform a female staff about my request. She checked with the kitchen and informed us that she had already relayed the instruction regarding "no mayo". After a few minutes, she went back to us and apologized, telling us that the kitchen was already done preparing the yakisoba by the time they were given the special instructions. She then served the dish generously covered with mayonnaise. Politely, we asked why initially we were given the impression that my request was accommodated. She then went back to the kitchen, taking the mayo-drenched yakisoba with her. When she returned, she told us that they would prepare a new yakisoba for me without mayo, which they did and was served after about five minutes. Although my request came a bit late and there was some miscommunication, I do appreciate the way they handled the situation. I still had a pleasant dining experience at Yayoi - SM...

Yayoi has significantly leveled up since my visit a year ago! Prices may have increased a little, but honestly, I can’t remember exactly. Today, I ordered the following dishes:

Ginger Pork Set Meal Katsuni Set Meal Natto Steamed Clams in Sake The steamed clams were a bit on the bland side, but the katsuni was absolutely delicious. I also requested extra mustard for the natto, and the staff kindly provided it with no hesitation. That was a great touch! As for the ginger pork, I feel it could use a stronger ginger kick to add that spicy punch.

Overall, though, I was very satisfied. Looking back at my previous comment, I recall saying, “Please try harder,” but now, Yayoi has clearly surpassed the average standard for Japanese cuisine here. I’m so glad to have discovered another great place to enjoy good food.

But what really stood out to me was the exceptional service. This is what makes the difference. The staff’s professionalism and attentiveness were remarkable.

Lastly, for all the Japanese food lovers out there, I’d like to invite you to check out my YouTube channel, “Senior & Cat Chronicles.” It’s all about daily life, delicious food, and fun moments with my cat. Don’t miss it—click...