I'm a Palaweña-- I love seafood but I never liked them fried. I don't understand why people hoard tempura at buffets, I don't get calamari. Fresh seafood goodness should be respected and not be put to sizzle in deep frying oil.

Then one day, my whole world view changed. I don't know what happened. I wasn't too hungry so I was sure that was a legit Mmmm-with-matching-closed-eyes-and-nodding-head moment. I didn't just love the fresh prawns used, I was also surprised at how tender the squid was. Even all the deep-fried vegetables in the set, I ate one by one while savoring every bite. And to add to it, the batter is very light yet complementing all the food items amazingly. Suddenly, I liked, nay loved, tempura, all because of this restaurant called Tempura Tsukiji Tenka showcased in Japan Food Town located in Wisma Atria, Orchard Rd.

I returned there last night and it was still the same really good quality. The only thing that changed was that their menu has more items in it now. The first time I was there, it was only exactly what you're seeing in the photo--one laminated sheet of the set meals.


Price

Tendon Set @ 19.80

• This set is the one I ordered both times. It had two prawns, one squid, veggies (young corn, yam, sweet potato and eggplant) also deep-fried coated in the same batter, a salad, a side of beans in sesame dressing, soup and a dessert that fondly reminded me of Jelly Ace, but tons better and tastes like almond. 

Now, I don't want to disrespect the image of my favorite tempura set by posting a crappy flatlay taken using my phone. For your (and my) benefit, I'll go back there for sure and this time will not be shy to snap a photo with a proper camera.