Tasty Tempura at Tenfuji

Posted on 03/08/2022 Last updated on 05/02/2022

Top image: makafood on Pexels

Tired of eating soft, soggy tempura? Looking for the crispiest, tastiest tempura in Tokyo? Then this is the place for you! Treat yourself to inexpensive gourmet tempura that practically melts in your mouth.

Wait, Tempura?

Tempura (天ぷら, tenpura) is one of the most beloved Japanese dishes around. Usually consisting of seafood, meat and vegetables, the ingredients of tempura have been battered and deep fried. The dish was introduced by the Portuguese in Nagasaki through the fritter-cooking techniques in the 16th century.

Traditionally, tempura uses only flour, eggs and water as ingredients, leaving the batter untouched by other flavors. As the batter is mixed minimally in cold water, it avoids the dough-like stickiness caused by the activation of wheat gluten. This results in the crispy texture which has become characteristic of tempura.

Over time, the art of tempura underwent an evolution, particularly during the 17th century as Yatai (food cart) culture gained popularity. It became customary to dip tempura quickly in a sauce mixed with grated daikon just before eating. Seasoning has also sometimes been introduced into the batter as well. However, many tempura chefs still prefer the classic style, as it allows the flavors of the seafood, etc. to shine through.

The word “tempura” is believed to have originated from the Spanish Témporas. This is in reference to the Ember Days, during which no meat is consumed. Another belief is it stems from the Portuguese word tempêro, meaning “seasoning”.

Yes, Tempura!

The best Tempura in all Tokyo (and maybe all Japan) can be found at Tenfuji in Nishi-Kasai, Edogawa (one of Tokto’s 23 Special Wards). It’s the perfect thing to have after biking in Arakawa! All ingredients are freshly sourced from Toyosu Market every morning. This results in some of the best-tasting tempura around.

You can sit at the counter and be amazed as each ingredient is freshly cooked before your very eyes. Each delightful dish is wonderfully presented in true washoku style. The charmingly authentic traditional interior just adds to the experience.

Best of all, this is the real deal. The ease of making tempura has resulted in it being sold everywhere. But the quality is often lacking. We’ve all had that soggy, soft tempura that comes pre-drenched in sauce and falls apart in your chopsticks. You won’t find that at Tenfuji though. This is some of the crispiest, crunchiest and best-looking tempura I’ve ever had. Once you’ve eaten here, you will never eat at any fast food tempura joint again.

On top of that, the friendly master here speaks excellent English and will happily explain the balance of each tempura plate. He has been serving delighted customers in Nishi-Kasai since 1978, and I hope he continues to for many more years. It’s just that good!

Photo Credits:

Top image: makafood on Pexels