MANAYUNK

Blog post by Manayunk Development Corporation Spring  Intern, Meghan Gatti. 

 Originally from Bangkok, Thailand, Moon Krapugthong grew up helping her father prepare exotic dishes from the morning market with fresh ingredients--a tradition carried on today at Yanako Manayunk. Moon was first introduced to traditional Japanese cuisine in Chicago by her boyfriend (now husband!). While she was in art school she worked at a Japanese restaurant and was mesmerized by the chef's skills as well as the beautiful delicious cuisine. After graduating from art school she obtained her M.B.A., so she incorporates the art, business, and of course hand-crafted traditional Japanese and Thai food into two very successful traditional restaurants. Her other restaurant, Chabaa Thai, is currently under relocation--however Thai fans can still get their favorites at Yanako.

Ever wonder what Yanako means in Japanese? It actually comes from the word Yamato nadeshiko. Of course, Yamato nadeshiko may be too long to fit on a sign, so Moon took the beginning, middle and end of the Japanese word meaning "butterfly flower." (YA-mato NA-deshi-KO) This flower is a common feature in Pennsylvanian landscapes, and grows wild in Japan. During World War II the flower was a national propaganda symbol encouraging women to be gentle, delicate, and beautiful. However, they also had to remain strong and endure all for when their husbands returned from difficult wartime, just like the Yamato nadeshiko. Yanako is a celebration of traditional Japanese, and the butterfly flower embodies Japanese tradition of beauty and endurance.

         From the freshly caught fish in the sushi rolls to the succulent coconut and pineapple flavors on the Chabaa menu, Moon's kitchen at Yanako is entirely top-grade. Moon's personal favorite Japanese menu items are sashimi and green tea crème brulee ice cream. Younger Sister is the most popular sushi roll--king crab, avocado, cucumber and kaiware topped with salmon and wasabi tobiko. Both menus incorporate classic ingredients and flavors; everything from the rice to the soy sauce is all created with a traditional approach.

          Omakase is a Japanese phrase that means "I'll leave it to you." In other words you leave your meal in the chef's hands. If you are lucky enough to be in town for Valentine's week, leading up to Sunday, February 15th, Yanako will be offering Omakase, and a delicious Valentine's menu incorporating Thai and Japanese. Remember that Yanako is BYOB, so be sure to surprise your sweetheart with their favorite drink and the knowledgeable staff will guide you toward great food and drink pairings.

         Chabaa is set to open in late Spring. Yanako fans can get introduced to Chabaa before it's opening, and Chabaa's loyal customers can get a taste of Yanako at one great location. "My team is wonderful, dedicated and talented" Moon Krapugthong says of her staff. "The kitchen is a well-oiled machine, they work hard and love playing with different concepts. You walk into Yanako and you get the family feel, but the food is all presented professionally with an artistic touch. I am honored to have them on board and be a part of the family."

Ten years ago when Moon chose Manayunk for her first restaurant, Chabaa, she loved the welcoming community, quaint feel, active scene and all of the cute shops. "There was an young spirit, and a very lively community." says Moon. Well, ten years later that much has not changed. Three years ago, Yanako joined Main Street. Now that both menus are temporarily under one roof, Manayunk locals and tourists can get a taste of Thai and great Japanese cuisine! Moon suggests one of her favorite Thai dishes, Thai jasmine rice stir-fried with king crab meat served with fresh sliced cucumbers, cilantro, and tomatoes. Yanako is a family-oriented restaurant, and accommodates large parties, which makes it's BYOB atmosphere convenient for big family and friend gatherings. Manayunk and Yanako are one stop shopping--all great food in one great space.