I love Tempura! I happened to first come across Tenjin when I was walking through the Shaw Centre and had made a note to myself to come back. As it happened, they opened a branch in Raffles City.
Ambience, Service and the Staff
Tenjin (Raffles City) is in the basement of Raffles City Shopping Centre along with several other establishments. They specialize in Tempura Donburi. It is decorated in a minimalist Japanese style with a very simple menu on display outside. As patrons line up outside, they place their orders with the staff before being seated. Their staff are friendly and efficient, seated us immediately and served us our drinks. I’ve never made reservations here and have always walked in. Their seats are sturdy with the bench seats being cushioned.
The Food
We’ve eaten here a couple of times. The first time, we were a party of 2 and ordered sets that are served with miso soup and kyabetsu salad. We ordered the special set (Jo) that came with prawn, vegetables, freedom range co. egg, and served with regular tare sauce, and the vegetable set (Yasai) that came with an assortment of 5 kinds of vegetables served in a spicy sauce. I also ordered a portion of the Satsuma Imo (seasonal Chiba sweet potato).
Their service is very quick, with food coming out in under 10 minutes. Their portions are generous. The tempura is fried well and drained of oil for a crispy and light taste. I was particularly impressed with their Satsuma Imo. Even though it is priced at $2.80 for a portion, it is particularly tasty. The sauces were pleasing to both of us, with the spicy sauce having enough kick to stimulate the taste buds, but not too spicy that would make one uncomfortable.
The Price Point
The special set was priced at $14.80; the vegetable set was $12.80. The add-on Satsuma Imo was an additional $2.80. This is great value, and when considering taxes, one can easily get a meal for around $20 per person here.
The Final Verdict
Tenjin offers great value and a very tasty meal. It’s a great place for a casual meal while shopping, lunch, or after work. It’s become one of my favourite places to go to for Tempura and one that I will recommend.
Address: 252 North Bridge Rd, Raffles City Singapore Shopping Centre, #B1, 46, 179103
Also at the Shaw Centre, Orchard Road.
Phone Number: +65 9663 1365
Website: https://www.tenjin.com.sg/
