JEDDAH, 19 March — I think it’s fair to say that Japanese food has become quite popular. Every wedding or party that I’m invited to has a sushi corner. At some fancy Italian or French restaurants, they even serve sushi on the side. I think it’s rather strange that people find raw fish so appealing. Maybe, eating Japanese style is what’s really attractive or was that Chinese? It seems for some of us locals, mastering the art of eating with chopsticks is nothing more than a “distant dream.”
Funny thing though, is that Tempura isn’t actually just a Japanese restaurant, it serves Chinese food as well. Yes, they have things with the famous chili sauce, noodles and Chinese stir fried goodies too.
Tempura is definitely distinctive. It’s a very contemporary looking place. The décor, music and overall feel are completely different from what would be expected. I think that the younger generation would surely appreciate it.
The color scheme is basically blue and black. It looks very cool. The seating area is well designed. When you first enter, you find a sushi bar. On the right side is the family section while the single section is on the left. They have some seats that are a step up and more private than others.
The waiters are dressed pleasantly. They look nice and neat. I also got the impression that the restaurant was clean, fresh and hygienic. And the service was excellent. I grow any older before I got my order. The best part was the food — sushi and all.
I wouldn’t exactly go calling it the best in town, but nevertheless, appetizing. It’s comparable to Osaka and even Benihana, especially when considering that the prices are minimal.
The sushi is quite tasty, I would even say delightfully so. The only complaint though, is that some pieces tend to unravel or crumble time and again. Sushi is so light and colorful. I actually heard a man say, “Sushi looks neat and it tastes very good with all its special sauces” It is fun to eat.
As for soup, I vote for Japanese corn soup. Miso soup, although a Japanese specialty, isn’t my cup of soup so to speak. They have more, such as crabmeat corn soup, pumpkin soup, Red Sea chowder, chicken and mushroom etc. Soup might as well be their strong suit as far as I’m concerned.
As for the salads, also quite pleasing; they serve gado-gado, shrimp, asparagus, lobster and shrimp and yasai.
The fried dishes are extremely enjoyable whether shrimp tempura, chicken, or breaded fish. Let’s not forget rolled crispy duck, crispy indeed! Ah the joys of Teppanyaki, if only it didn’t smell.
But it is worth the hassle. They have quite a selection: Tuna, lobster, chicken, beef, duck and najil. It even has special dishes such as baked salmon Japanese style, tori katsu chicken curry, spring rolls, lobster thermidor, sizzling beef teriyaki and najil fillet in lemon butter.
I must mention that their rice was a disappointment. It was dry, lacked salt and tasted of too much egg. The noodles too I’m afraid were not at all satisfactory.
The best part about going to Tempura though was the French fries. I was more than glad to find them. All the kids were enthusiastic about them. Last but not least, Baskin Robbins ice cream. I have only one word to say, “Serendipity.” I could not believe my chance and good fortune to find edible dessert at a Japanese Restaurant. Indeed, there is a first time for everything!
So next time you’re not quite sure, Japanese or Chinese, no need to choose one when you can get the best of both worlds at Tempura.
Tempura is on Sari Street. For reservations call: 6392468.
