Hyperlocal Tokyo

Having been established in the grounds of Tsukiji Honganji Temple for 15 years, this is Seiju. Due to the location, it's mostly frequented by long-time regulars or Ginza ladies accompanied by their friends, but that's just how it is. However, they silently and meticulously fry the ingredients in a thin batter, using beautiful, simple oil. The shrimp, in particular, is amazing, with a distinct difference in texture and flavor between the raw-fried and thoroughly fried options. The rest of the menu is classic, but the inclusion of abalone and matsutake mushrooms is another point of excitement. It was a truly wonderful tempura experience, a perfect example of 'simple is best'.

I enjoyed delicious tempura in a calm and relaxing atmosphere! I didn't experience any heartburn or indigestion. The service was excellent, and they even explained the menu in English for foreign tourists. I think it's a great place for both business dinners and dates.

The tempura is served all at once with other customers, so there's no chance to pace yourself. I'd prefer to savor each dish with a sip of sake. I don't remember it being this way in the past. The oil felt heavy and left me feeling unwell. The staff tries to be attentive, but it's all for show, they don't really pay attention to what's happening. The tempura batter was thick today, was it an off day? Disappointing. For this price, the quality isn't worth it, it's too expensive.

I went to a tempura specialty restaurant for the first time. The tempura wasn't greasy at all, and I didn't feel any aftereffects the next day. It was truly delicious, and I actually started to like tempura even though I wasn't a big fan before. Personally, I could have eaten more, so I should have ordered some additional items à la carte. The tempura is served in a set course. There were about 17 dishes served from start to finish. The final dish is either tempura donburi (tempura rice bowl) or tempura tea. This time I had the tempura donburi, so I'd like to try the tempura tea next time. It's not something I personally mind, but I noticed that the tempura smell lingered on my clothes. I didn't realize it until I got home.

The first shrimp was delicious, but I felt a bit of an oily smell... I thought it might just be my imagination. But by the time the megachi arrived, I was sure. They had changed the oil before moving on to the vegetables, so the lotus root was delicious as usual. Was it just a coincidence?