I dropped by UCC Clockwork at One Ayala this afternoon for a super-quick lunch before a meeting, and it turned out to be just what I needed.
Why I chose it
Being pressed for time, I asked the staff to serve me something that could be prepped soonest but still a bestseller. They totally delivered: I got my soup within 3 minutes, and my main dish in about 5–7 minutes.
What I ordered & how it tasted
- Entree: Cajun Shrimp with Aligue Omurice – marinated prawns sautéed in garlic butter sauce, wrapped in omelet and aligue rice.
- Soup: Creamy Pumpkin soup – smooth, comforting, and a nice starter.
- Drink: My go-to soda- COKE Light (just to keep it simple, given the time constraint!).
The combination was excellent. The sauce fused beautifully with the omurice, giving a rich, savory depth that makes you want to come back again. The soup did its job of warming up the palate and getting the appetite going without delay.
The service and atmosphere
Since I was tight on time, it was a relief that the servers were really helpful and attentive. They assisted promptly with my special request (faster-service, please) and guided the flow of my meal so I didn’t feel rushed- or stressed. The setting is modern and calm enough for a quick solo lunch, and yet comfortable. This new branch in One Ayala is cozy and considered an upscale cafe offering sumptuous comfort food and good quality coffee drinks.
The branch & overall concept
UCC Clockwork is a concept under the larger UCC?Café / Mugen Group umbrella in the Philippines. The One Ayala branch opened in April 2024 and launched a new menu. What makes the Clockwork concept stand out is a stronger Japanese-flavor influence – thus, omurice entrées, miso-marinated dishes, sushi-inspired touches, and so on. For example, their menu includes:
- Beef and Tendon Caldereta Omurice
- Miso Mushroom Risotto with Salmon
- Chicken Karaage
- Aligue Pasta
So if you enjoy Japanese fusion or just good quality café meals with a slight twist, this is a solid pick.
My verdict!
Would I recommend it? Definitely yes. Whether you’re in a hurry (like I was) or just looking for a reliable lunch spot with a little Japanese-fusion flair, UCC Clockwork at One Ayala checks the boxes: great taste, fast service, pleasant ambiance, and a staff who makes things easy.
If you’re around Makati and craving something a bit different from the usual café fare, go give it a try — you might find a new favorite.
Highly recommended. Let me know if you want more pics (food close-ups, interior, etc.) or want me to scan other items on their menu for next time!
Collaboration? Contact me!
IG: instagram.com/ricunlimited @ricunlimited
FB: www.facebook.com/BlackHeliosUnlimited/
Blog: www.blackheliosph.com
Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCFky0fb0NWdqo5iICgzq6jg
Tiktok: www.tiktok.com/@ricunlimited
https://vt.tiktok.com/yL8Nnq/m