Looking for the best tempura restaurants in Tokyo? From Michelin-starred counters to historic Edo-style institutions, Tokyo is the ultimate destination for crispy, delicate, perfectly fried tempura. Whether you’re craving shrimp tempura, seasonal vegetables, or omakase tempura courses, this guide covers the top 10 tempura restaurants in Tokyo for an unforgettable culinary experience.
1. Tempura Kondo
Widely regarded as one of the best tempura restaurants in Tokyo, Tempura Kondo in Ginza holds two Michelin stars and is famous for elevating vegetables to star status. Chef Fumio Kondo fries each ingredient individually at precise temperatures, resulting in light, crisp batter that never feels greasy. Signature dishes include sweet potato tempura, sliced paper-thin, and perfectly cooked shrimp. The intimate counter seating offers a front-row view of the frying process. For travelers seeking high-end omakase tempura in Tokyo, Tempura Kondo delivers exceptional flavor, technique, and artistry in every bite.
2. Tenichi
Founded in 1930, Tenichi is a historic tempura restaurant in Tokyo known for refined Edo-style frying techniques. Located in Ginza, it has served celebrities, politicians, and even members of the Imperial family. The batter is thin and airy, highlighting the natural sweetness of prawns and seasonal seafood. Guests can enjoy omakase courses or tempura rice bowls in an elegant yet traditional setting. If you’re searching for authentic, long-established tempura in Tokyo with impeccable service and heritage appeal, Tenichi remains a top-tier choice.
3. Tempura Fukamachi
Tempura Fukamachi is a Michelin-starred gem near Tokyo Station, beloved for its perfectly balanced oil temperature and exceptional ingredients. The chef uses a blend of sesame oils to achieve crisp, fragrant batter. Standout items include anago (sea eel) and uni wrapped in shiso leaf. The relaxed counter atmosphere allows diners to savor each piece immediately after frying. For visitors wanting a convenient yet high-end tempura restaurant in central Tokyo, Tempura Fukamachi offers precision, warmth, and unforgettable flavor.
4. Tempura Motoyoshi
Tempura Motoyoshi is one of Tokyo’s most innovative tempura restaurants, known for creative twists on classic techniques. Located in Shibuya, it has earned Michelin recognition for its seasonal approach and beautifully plated courses. The famous corn tempura, served like a fritter, is sweet and juicy inside with a delicate crunch outside. The intimate setting enhances the omakase experience, as the chef explains each ingredient. If you want modern tempura in Tokyo that blends tradition with creativity, Tempura Motoyoshi is a must-visit.
5. Tsunahachi
Established in 1924, Tsunahachi is one of the most accessible and popular tempura restaurants in Tokyo. Located in Shinjuku, it offers both traditional counter seating and private rooms, making it ideal for groups. The batter is crisp yet light, and the restaurant is known for generous portions at reasonable prices. Seasonal vegetables and seafood are sourced carefully, ensuring freshness year-round. For travelers seeking high-quality tempura in Tokyo without Michelin-level prices, Tsunahachi delivers consistency, history, and excellent value.
6. Tempura Abe
Tempura Abe is a refined yet welcoming tempura restaurant in Ginza, popular among both locals and visitors. The chef focuses on premium seafood and seasonal produce, frying each piece to golden perfection. Lunchtime tendon (tempura rice bowl) sets offer excellent value, while dinner omakase courses highlight the chef’s expertise. The batter is thin and airy, allowing natural flavors to shine. If you’re exploring Ginza and craving authentic Tokyo tempura in a relaxed setting, Tempura Abe is an outstanding choice.
7. Mikawa Zezankyo
Mikawa Zezankyo is legendary among tempura enthusiasts. Chef Tetsuya Saotome is known for his scientific precision and mastery of oil temperature, producing exceptionally light batter. Located in Monzen-Nakacho, the restaurant has earned Michelin stars and international acclaim. Each ingredient, from prawns to rare seasonal vegetables, is fried separately to maximize texture and flavor. The minimalist counter setting emphasizes craftsmanship. For serious food lovers seeking one of the most acclaimed tempura restaurants in Tokyo, Mikawa Zezankyo is unforgettable.
8. Tempura Nakasei
Founded in 1870, Tempura Nakasei in Asakusa is one of the oldest tempura restaurants in Tokyo. The historic wooden building enhances the nostalgic dining experience. Known for its thick, flavorful sauce and generous shrimp tempura bowls, Nakasei preserves traditional Edo-style cooking. The batter is slightly richer compared to modern Michelin establishments, appealing to those who prefer classic flavors. For visitors exploring Senso-ji Temple and looking for historic tempura in Tokyo, Nakasei offers both heritage and hearty satisfaction.
9. Tempura Tensuke
Tempura Tensuke in Koenji is famous for affordable yet incredibly satisfying tendon bowls. Often drawing long lines, this casual tempura restaurant in Tokyo is beloved for its crispy shrimp and half-cooked egg tempura topping. The quick service and no-frills setting make it perfect for budget travelers. Despite modest prices, quality remains impressively high. If you’re seeking cheap and delicious tempura in Tokyo with a local vibe, Tempura Tensuke is a hidden gem worth the short train ride.
10. Tempura Yamanoue
Located inside the historic Yamanoue Hotel, Tempura Yamanoue is known for refined, old-school tempura techniques. The chef uses high-quality sesame oil to produce aromatic, crisp batter with a delicate golden hue. The calm, elegant atmosphere appeals to diners seeking a classic Tokyo tempura experience. Seasonal seafood and vegetables are prepared with meticulous attention to timing. For those wanting traditional yet polished tempura in Tokyo near Ochanomizu, Tempura Yamanoue remains a timeless and reliable favorite.
Final Thoughts
From Michelin-starred counters in Ginza to century-old institutions in Asakusa, these are the top 10 tempura restaurants in Tokyo for every budget and style. Whether you prefer innovative omakase or classic tendon bowls, Tokyo’s tempura scene offers unmatched variety and craftsmanship.