Kokom♡
I visited "Tenhide" located near the pedestrian bridge in Nishi-Shinjuku. This is a long-established tempura restaurant founded in 1903, and it has been selected as one of the "Tempura Top 100 Stores 2022". The current owner, the second generation, took over the business after the passing of the previous owner 7 years ago. When I arrived just after opening on a weekday at 11:40, there were only 4 seats left, and by noon there was already a small line forming outside.
I ordered the "Tendon" for 1,020 yen (tax included), which came with pickled cucumbers, miso soup, and orange jelly. As it was my first visit, I chose the basic Tendon. It arrived in about 10 minutes. The tempura was fried in a blend of oils, giving it a brownish color, and the sauce was not too sweet. The tempura included shrimp, kisu fish, shiitake mushrooms, eggplant, sweet potato, and pickled ginger. The sweet potato was particularly delicious! The pickled ginger added a fresh accent, and the Tendon was not too heavy, despite its appearance. The rice portion was generous, and the refreshing orange jelly dessert was a nice touch. To enjoy such a rich Tendon for only 1,020 yen felt almost like a steal.
From the moment I was greeted with "Welcome", the second-generation owner, his assistant, and the serving staff provided polite and elegant service throughout. It was a long-awaited visit to the popular "Tenhide" and I thoroughly enjoyed the experience. Next time, I will try the "Tenju".