Tempura Shinsaibashi Ittetsu

We have been to omakase sushi restaurants but never to a omakase tempura restaurant. So this was a first for us. We understand from our guide that omakase tempura restaurants are not uncommon in Japan although omakase sushi restaurants are more popular. We had a medium course set which comprises 8... pieces of tempura, rounded off by a cup of coffee (actually it tasted more like a fusion of coffee and tea). The course has a beef item with some really fresh uni on top - very unique and very good as well. There is a bigger menu that has 15 items for those with a bigger appetite. Our chef showed us all the ingredients at the start. He explained every dish to us and what salt or sauce to dip them in. We had a guide who could speak Japanese and helped to translate for us. All the chefs and service staff members were very friendly. When we were leaving, the chef and his assistant saw us off all the way out of the restaurant and even obliged with a photograph with us. The tempura was excellent, the best we have had anywhere. The ingredients were very fresh and the batter light. The restaurant seats only about 10 and is usually full, so advance reservation is advisable. This is an excellent and cosy restaurant to enjoy quality tempura and good service.

Visited November 2019