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5 Easy to Book Tempura Restaurants in Tokyo and Kyoto

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Tempura (Japanese deep-fried cuisine) is a dish that you must try when visiting Japan. We introduce five tempura specialty restaurants in Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka that are easy to book in English.

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Travel writer and assistant editor at MATCHA with extensive travel around the Osaka, Kyoto, and Wakayama areas. A Kansai insider who knows their Akashiyaki from their Takoyaki, Iain enjoys getting authentic stories from traditional craftspeople and interesting creators. Particularly fond of temples and shrines, Iain delves deep into the crossroads of tradition and modernity in his eight-plus years living and writing about Japan.

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Fresh seafood, meat, and vegetables at the peak of their flavor, all fried in a light and crispy batter—tempura is a beloved staple of Japanese cuisine enjoyed around the world.

While tempura is widely available, restaurants that specialize in this dish offer an elevated experience that visitors should not miss. We introduce some of the best tempura restaurants in Tokyo, Osaka, and Kyoto, all easily bookable in English on Klook.

Tasty Tempura Restaurants to Book

1. Ginza Tempura Abe in Tokyo
2. Tempura Mafuyokota in Tokyo, Ginza
3. Tempura Endo Yasaka in Gion Kyoto
4. Ten You: Tempura in Kyoto
5. Tenmabashi Fujikawa in Osaka

1. Ginza Tempura Abe in Tokyo

Tempura Restaurants

Photo Courtesy of Klook

Nestled within the maze of high-end retail, Ginza Tempura Abe has built a solid reputation for its exceptional tempura.

Specializing in tempura served over rice, the restaurant offers a dinner menu that delivers great value for its price.

Featuring a selection of seafood and vegetables, all fried to order, the menu highlights the finest ingredients sourced from across Japan.

Chef Abe brings years of experience from one of Tokyo’s top restaurants, making Ginza Tempura a must-visit destination for tempura enthusiasts in Tokyo.

2. Tempura Mafuyokota in Ginza, Tokyo

5 Easy to Book Tempura Restaurants in Tokyo and Kyoto

Photo Courtesy of Klook

Recognized eight times by the Michelin Guide for its exceptional cuisine, Tempura Mafuyokota is a must-visit for those seeking the best tempura experience.

While the restaurant excels in a variety of seafood dishes, its signature tempura is particularly noteworthy.

With a carefully crafted batter and oil specifically chosen to leave no residue, the result is a delightful texture that enhances the freshness of each ingredient.

The combination of skilled chefs, high-quality ingredients, and an inviting dining atmosphere makes Mafuyokota an outstanding destination for tempura lovers.

3. Tempura Endo Yasaka - Tempura in Gion Kyoto

Tempura Restaurants in Tokyo and Kyoto

Photo Courtesy of Klook

Nestled in a cozy historical neighborhood of Kyoto, Tempura Endo Yasaka offers an atmospheric setting to enjoy one of Japan’s most iconic cuisines.

The restaurant provides a warm, traditional dining experience, featuring stunning tatami rooms that overlook a beautifully curated garden, showcasing Kyoto’s finest seasonal produce.

Before savoring your last bite of delicate tempura, take a moment to appreciate the breathtaking view of the Higashiyama district. From the restaurant’s entrance, you can also spot the iconic pagoda of Kenninji, adding a touch of Kyoto’s charm to your visit.

4. Ten You: Michelin 1-Starred Tempura in Kyoto

Tempura Restaurants in Tokyo and Kyoto

Photo Courtesy of Klook

Preserving the subtle flavors and aromas of Kyoto’s gourmet vegetables, Ten You offers a tempura experience that visitors to the Osaka area should not miss.

Showcasing the natural elegance of its ingredients, the tempura here enhances their flavors while adding a light, crisp texture.

At Ten You, the focus is on Kyoto’s celebrated vegetables, carefully prepared to highlight their taste and texture without the heaviness often associated with tempura.

With a front-row view of the meticulous preparation process, guests can witness how each ingredient is elevated, making Ten You an unforgettable dining destination.

5. Tenmabashi Fujikawa in Osaka

Osaka boasts a fantastic tempura restaurant nestled in the quiet Tenmabashi neighborhood: Tenmabashi Fujikawa.

Located along the tranquil Okawa River, Fujikawa offers an unforgettable tempura experience paired with traditional Japanese cuisine.

Chef Shinji Fujikawa, with over 20 years of expertise, skillfully prepares each dish, emphasizing his philosophy of perfection over reinvention.

Guests can enjoy tempura fried right before their eyes, featuring a crisp, light batter that enhances the natural flavors of the ingredients.

With its serene setting, simple yet elegant decor, and impeccable dishes, this restaurant is a hidden gem for those seeking a relaxing and refined dining experience.

Enjoy Tempura in Japan

The appeal of tempura lies in how the light batter beautifully captures the sweetness and deep flavors of the ingredients.

When a restaurant uses the freshest produce, it elevates the dining experience to new heights. So why not consider booking a table at one of these restaurants on your next trip and enjoy all that tempura cuisine has to offer?

Main image by Pixta

Written by

Salvo

Travel writer and assistant editor at MATCHA with extensive travel around the Osaka, Kyoto, and Wakayama areas. A Kansai insider who knows their Akashiyaki from their Takoyaki, Iain enjoys getting authentic stories from traditional craftspeople and interesting creators. Particularly fond of temples and shrines, Iain delves deep into the crossroads of tradition and modernity in his eight-plus years living and writing about Japan.

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