I had been wanting to visit this restaurant for a long time, and while casually browsing Instagram stories, I saw a post about available cancellation slots for the next day. I quickly sent a direct message to book a spot.The restaurant is located in a building behind Takashimaya in Nihonbashi. As soon as you exit the elevator, you see the Tempura Asanuma sign. Passing through the noren curtain, you enter a calm atmosphere with counter seating. In the late hours, it’s lively with many regular customers.The chef skillfully prepares the ingredients, and just watching from the counter while sipping on a drink is enjoyable.We started with Hatoshi, a local dish from Nagasaki. It’s shrimp paste sandwiched between bread and deep-fried. Freshly fried, it has a delightful aroma and is piping hot. The sound when you bite into it is satisfying, and it tastes amazing. It’s a dish that pleases all the senses.Next, we had two types of shrimp. The first was served with salt, and then we were recommended to try the second with dipping sauce. The way the batter is applied seems different, and it was delicious! The dipping sauce itself was incredibly tasty! It’s a bit strong, but when the tempura is this good, a bolder flavor might actually enhance the experience.After that, we enjoyed thick slices of eggplant, clams bursting with umami, surprisingly sweet potatoes, and fluffy anago (conger eel) that could be broken apart with chopsticks. Each dish was a delightful surprise, and I truly felt grateful to be there.Although it was a busy time with many regulars, everyone, including the chef, was very friendly. They shared recommendations for other restaurants and engaged in light conversation, creating a welcoming atmosphere that made my first visit enjoyable. It was truly a wonderful evening.Menu:- Hatoshi- Shrimp (served with salt and dipping sauce)- Eggplant- Kisu (Japanese whiting)- Shiitake mushrooms- Clams- Tachiuo (beltfish)- Young corn- Snap peas- Asparagus- Scallops- Potatoes- Anago- Tencha (tempura rice) and red miso soup.
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