Tradition, served one piece at a time. Founded in 1924, Shinjuku Tsunahachi has been a fixture of Shinjuku’s dining culture for more than a century. While the original main building is currently being rebuilt, the restaurant continues to welcome guests at its temporary location, Shinjuku Tsunahachi Main Store Annex, with the reopening of the main building scheduled for around autumn 2028. This time, we ordered the weekday-only Special Lunch Set. Two shrimp, seasonal seafood (whiting on this visit), three seasonal vegetables, and a kakiage fritter arrived one by one from the kitchen, accompanied by rice, miso soup, and pickles. We also added eggplant and maitake mushroom tempura. The meal is not simply about what is served. Each piece arrives at the right moment. Staff quietly observe the pace of the table. Tea is replenished before you notice it is needed. The craftsmanship is visible in the frying, but the tradition lives equally in the hospitality. A meal that reminds you why some restaurants remain for generations. Part of how we read Shinjuku.

+3

The annex opened to coincide with the main store's renovation. The restaurant occupies B1 and the 6th floor, with counter seating only on the 6th floor. It's in a newly built building, so the restaurant was clean and comfortable.

+3

Tempura enjoyed at the counter really is the best” Since the main store is being rebuilt, I had delicious tempura here with a close friend. We reserved a course with 12 kinds of tempura plus à la carte dishes, starting with beer, then sweet potato shochu, and finishing with tencha. It was fantastic. The restaurant is on B1, but head to the 6th floor for counter seating. Reservations required.

+3

I stopped by for lunch. They have courses too, but I always order à la carte to suit my tastes!! I start with a salad and ohitashi made with seasonal vegetables, then savor an assortment of sashimi. Once things have settled down, I move on to tempura. Young ayu, loach, and whatever vegetables are in season are exquisite!! I finish with a mini tendon, and the soup is reliably good as always. Of course, the drinks are very satisfying too.

I always enjoy dining at the main store. Since it is undergoing renovations, I visited here. Thank you for the same wonderful flavors and service.