Tentsuru: The Ultimate Japanese Omakase Experience Featuring Exquisite Tempura in Singapore
Looking for one of the best omakase experiences in Singapore?
Tucked away on the second floor of The St. Regis Singapore, Tentsuru isn’t your average tempura stop. This refined sensory experience is led by one of Japan’s most celebrated culinary talents, Chef Daiki Kawaguchi.
Since opening in 2022, this omakase-style restaurant in Singapore has carved out a name for itself by spotlighting seasonal produce and the precision of Japanese tempura craftsmanship.
From the crisp bite of lightly battered vegetables to rich, flavour-packed seafood, this is a masterclass in texture and flavour. So, whether you are a tempura expert or a curious first-timer, this exquisite celebration of tastes and tradition makes Tentsuru among the best omakase in Singapore.
What to Expect from the Tentsuru Experience
Dining at Tentsuru is an intimate and personalised experience that begins with its meditative ambience. The interiors lean into Zen minimalism, with soft lighting and subtle crane motifs as a nod to its name (a mix of "ten" for tempura and "tsuru" for crane). There’s a 15-seat main counter that puts you within arm’s reach of Chef Kawaguchi as he works, and a smaller, private counter for up to seven diners.
As for the menu at Tentsuru, it is carefully curated to showcase the best of what the season has to offer. "Omakase" translates to "I leave it up to you," and at Tentsuru, this means entrusting the chef to surprise you with a series of dishes that highlight seasonal ingredients and the chef's creativity. Each course is presented with an explanation of the ingredients and the inspiration behind the dish, adding a layer of storytelling to the meal. This not only enhances your appreciation of the food but also deepens your understanding of the artistry involved in its creation.
Each ingredient is treated with absolute care, from the first crackle of batter to the final, golden-flecked dish. Lunch starts at $120, while dinner ranges from $188 to $380, depending on how extensive you want your experience to be.
As you progress through the courses, you'll notice the careful pacing of the meal, like a sensory journey that engages sight, smell, and taste. The chefs' expertise ensures that every dish is a balanced composition of flavours and textures, making this not just a meal, but a memorable experience to share with your close ones.
Signature Tempura Dishes at Tentsuru
Cue: expect the unexpected. Chef Daiki Kawaguchi reimagines tempura beyond the usual shrimp and vegetables, plating ingredients that are rarely seen in this format. There’s Hokkaido sea urchin roll wrapped in a sheet of sea urchin, wild king crab with a sharp burst of Japanese sudachi, and an indulgent serving of Miyazaki A5 Wagyu with black truffle shavings and homemade komi sauce. Other delicacies include nodoguro (blackthroat seaperch) from Ishikawa and a deceptively simple but unforgettable Kagoshima sweet potato.
Meet the Chef: Daiki Kawaguchi
Chef Kawaguchi’s love affair with cooking began in his father’s restaurant kitchen in Osaka. He went on to train at Michelin-starred establishments like Tankuma and Hinokizaka, building his career in kaiseki cuisine before shifting his focus to the precision of tempura. He later co-founded Tenharu in Bangkok, another respected name in omakase tempura, before bringing his vision to Singapore. At Tentsuru, he’s blending traditional technique with a modern eye, driven by seasonality and respect for the ingredient.
Drinks at Tentsuru, a Culinary Match for Tempura
The drinks list here is just as considered. The sake list includes bottles specifically chosen to match the texture and flavour of tempura. Look out for premium sake like La Isojiman, made with ultra-premium AAA Yamadanishiki rice (only 400 bottles exist worldwide), and the exclusive “Tentsuru” MV18 Henri Giraud champagne, elegant and effervescent, tailored to tempura. There's a curated wine list, too, with thoughtful pairings to elevate each course.
What Customers are Raving About at Tentsuru
‘All tempura is not created equal’—that’s the unspoken sentiment across most reviews that rave about the experience at Tentsuru. With an average Google Review rating of 4.8, it is obvious that Tensturu is a master in all things Japanese Omakase.
Reviews often mention the level of detail that goes into every piece of tempura, and how the experience feels elevated from start to finish. Staff are attentive, dishes are consistently impressive, and the overall vibe is polished without feeling overly formal.
A Culinary Journey that Transcends the Ordinary
Tentsuru combines Japanese omakase with a rare mastery of tempura. For those looking for good omakase in Singapore, this spot sets a high bar; from the produce to the plating, everything is carefully curated. It’s easy to see why it’s often listed as one of the best places for tempura Singapore has to offer.
The use of fresh, seasonal ingredients ensures that every dish is a celebration of natural flavours, while the skill and creativity of Chef Daiki Kawaguchi elevate tempura to an art form. If you are looking to embark on a culinary journey that transcends the ordinary, Tentsuru is the place to be. Reservations are highly recommended.
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