It’s not often a new restaurant genuinely excites me on a fundamental level, but my recent visit to seaku in Panglao did exactly that. This new casual dining spot, whose name is a clever blend of “Sea” and “Kusina,” isn’t just serving food; it’s serving a philosophy. And let me tell you, it’s a philosophy you can taste.

A Philosophy of Freshness

What immediately impressed me was the passion of the owners and their crystal-clear concept. The focus is on using only fresh, local, and seasonal ingredients. There’s nothing frozen, nothing imported. The talented Korean chefs behind the scenes have created a small, perfectly curated menu—something I always appreciate as a sign of quality—that evolves based on the best produce and seafood available from the local markets.

This commitment is on full display at their amazing grilling station right at the entrance, where you can watch your dishes come to life, filling the clean, minimal space with incredible aromas.

Dishes That Blew Me Away

For the quality you receive, the prices are incredibly competitive. But the real story is the flavor. Here are some of the dishes that I tried and absolutely need to be highlighted:

• Kinilaw: Honestly, this was one of the best I have ever tried. It was perfectly balanced, showcasing the incredible freshness of the raw tuna and shrimp in a delicate coconut milk.
• Seafood Pomelo Salad: A refreshing and vibrant mix of seafood, crab meat, pomelo, and herbs that was light yet full of complex flavors.
• Tuna Panga (Signature Grill): This was absolutely amazing. You can truly taste the difference when the fish is this fresh and not frozen. The consistency and flavor of the grilled tuna jaw were on another level, and it was served with their homemade Green Mango Kimchi, which was the perfect, tangy complement to the rich fish.

Don’t Forget the Drinks

This “from scratch” philosophy extends to their bar. Their signature cocktails are creative and delicious, featuring their own infused spirits. They also offer an extensive wine list, with plenty of options perfect for pairing with their seafood-focused dishes.

My Final Thoughts

seaku is a restaurant with a soul. You can taste the passion in every single bite. This is the type of place that truly excites me, and I cannot wait to go back to see what else their creativity brings to the table. If you’re in Panglao and looking for a dining experience that is honest, fresh, and incredibly delicious, you have to check this place out.

IG : @seakubohol

Location : https://maps.app.goo.gl/UzGpiHKY3Lxvo9yaA