Ro's Recz

Address: 3 Chome-31-8 Shinjuku, Shinjuku City, Tokyo 160-0022, Japan

Tsunahachi used to be my favorite tempura restaurant in Tokyo, although I think I prefer Shimomura now (this is no fault of Tsunahachi though, it’s just that Shimomura’s quality is exceptional). Still, I will continue to go to Tsunahachi each time I go to Tokyo.

Tsunahachi is cheaper than Shimomura, and it is easier to order ala-carte at Tsunahachi. These make it a better option if you are looking for a quicker/more inexpensive meal, or if you only like certain types of tempura.

The tempura at Tsunahachi is really good, and it is all freshly made at the tempura bar at the front. If you want the most authentic experience, you should sit at the bar so the chefs can put the tempura directly on your plate (and you can easily tell them what you want); this experience is better if you can speak Japanese, but even if you don’t you can just point at the options you want.

Another thing I really like about Tsunahachi is that they have a large selection of vegetables, which means you can choose whichever ones you like. My personal favorites are eggplant and onion, but many people prefer lotus root, potato, etc.

There are several locations of Tsunahachi throughout Tokyo; the one I go to most is in Shinagawa, but that is because I often used to stay at a hotel in Shinagawa. I would do some research about which location is closest to you though, as all locations are of similar quality. If you are looking for the original Tsunahachi though, it is the location in Shinjuku (see the top of the page).

Tsunahachi Recommendation Rating: 4

1: Something worth checking out if you have time

2: Something that is a hit for some people, but not a must for everyone

3: Something worth prioritizing if interested

4: Something worth making time to check out

5: An absolute home run, worth going out of your way for