Tempura stands alongside sushi and ramen as a globally recognized jewel of Japanese cuisine.
Some tempura estabishments, while embracing conventional choices like white fish—kisu (Japanese whiting) and the like—and standard vegetables such as eggplant and pumpkin, also venture into unique and unexpected ingredients. Among these innovators is “Tempura Hisago Ōsaki” (referred hereunder as “Tempura Hisago”), located just a ten-minute stroll from Ōsaki Station in Tokyo.
The restaurant showcases an elevated tempura experience, featuring both traditional dishes and innovative tempura bowls using high-end ingredients.
Luxurious Kuroge wagyū Japanese beef, a tempura bowl delight
Exclusively available at lunch, the “Kuroge Japanese Beef Tempura Bowl” boasts sumptuously marbled Kuroge wagyū Japanese beef.
黒毛和牛天丼, “Kuroge Japanese Beef Tempura Bowl” 3,800 JPY (tax included)
While tempura typically features chicken or pork, beef is a rare sight. Tempura Hisago uses Kuroge wagyu topside, chosen for its superb mix of tenderness and firmness.
The beef’s marbling facilitates a reduction of internal moisture, concentrating the flavors, especially when paired with a rich sauce. A dash of wasabi accentuates these robust flavors, adding a refined edge.
In addition to the beef, this tempura bowl features seasonally rotating vegetables like pumpkin, taro, and eggplant, reflecting Tempura Hisago’s commitment to seasonal ingredients.
Not to be overlooked, Tempura Hisago’s rice, seasoned with their special sauce, is an exceptional part of the meal. To truly appreciate its delicious flavor, be sure to also try it as is, not together with tempura.
In the evenings, the menu includes tempura using Kuroge wagyu tenderloin, served à la carte. A softer cut than the topside served at lunch, it demands precise preparation to ensure it doesn’t become too tough, showcasing the chef’s finesse.
Frying Kuroge wagyu
With years of experience, skilled artisans at Tempura Hisago can determine the perfect timing for frying by listening to the sound and observing the bubbles in the oil. Their expertise is essential for maximizing the ingredients’ potential.
Founded over a century ago, the restaurant prides itself on a tradition of meticulously frying each piece of tempura, a testament to the artisans’ rich experience and the establishment’s storied history.
Signature lobster tempura: a perfect pairing of texture and taste
In addition to Kuroge wagyu, Tempura Hisago’s menu also stars exquisite lobster tempura.
To preserve its notably plump texture, the lobster is expertly fried just enough, ensuring it remains juicy and tender. The tempura batter is deliberately thin, enhancing the lobster’s delightful texture rather than overshadowing it.
“（お好み天ぷら）オマール海,” Lobster (à la carte) 3,900 JPY (tax included)
Additionally, the condiments provided with this premium offering deserve special mention. The lobster tempura comes with a small dish of fragrant blood orange salt, to which Tempura Hisago recommends adding a squeeze of lemon.
This enhances the tempura with a delicate orange scent, complemented by the tartness of the lemon, bringing a refreshing twist to the flavors.
A refined pairing with wine and other beverages at Tempura Hisago
The restaurant not only features rare ingredients such as Kuroge Wagyu beef and lobster, but its concept is also refreshingly innovative.
A sommelier thoughtfully curates a selection of red and white wines, along with champagne, each expertly paired with the tempura.
Curated wines perfect for pairing with tempura
White wine, in particular, is celebrated for its ability to enhance the delicate flavors of tempura.
Moreover, the restaurant boasts an impressive selection of Japanese sake and shōchū, facilitating a perfect marriage of flavors for a sublime dining experience.
An extensive selection of Japanese sake and shochu at Tempura Hisago
Tempura Hisago’s interior includes private rooms as well as counter seating, where guests can watch the skilled artisans fry tempura right before their eyes.
The space is ideal for groups, but it’s especially recommended for those seeking to spend leisurely, luxurious time with someone special.
Enjoying exquisite tempura in a tranquil atmosphere away from Tokyo’s hustle and bustle is sure to make your travel memories even more special.
Tempura Hisago’s interior
Information
| Store name | 天ぷら ひさご 大崎店 Tempura Hisago Ōsaki |
|---|---|
| Address | Rise Up Ōsaki 1F, 2-7-8 Ōsaki, Shinagawa-ku, Tokyo
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| Access |
Ōsaki Station 7-minute walk from Ōsaki Station South Gate
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| Phone number | 03-6910-4847 |
| Reservations | Accepted Phone, Tabelog, GURUNAVI, Hot Pepper Gourmet, Ikyu Restaurant, Reserve with Google |
| Payment |
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| Hours | 11:30-14:30（last order 14:00）, 17:00-22:00（last entry 20:30） |
| Closed | Monday In addition to unscheduled holidays |
| Seating | 25 seats 9 counter seats, 16 private dining room seats |
| Smoking | All seats are non-smoking |
| Official website | https://tabelog.com/tokyo/A1316/A131604/13270398/ |
| Other information |
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※Menu contents, prices, store information, etc. are current as of April 2024.
