Wan Chai's Japanese Delight | A Taste of Edo

This time, I stumbled upon the reigning champion of Japan's "Tendon Gold Award" for eight consecutive years in Wan Chai—how could I resist trying it? The restaurant specializes in Edo-style tendon, inheriting secret recipes and craftsmanship from the Edo period, which already sounds mouthwatering! Upon entering the restaurant, the minimalist Japanese decor immediately gives off a soothing vibe. The wooden tones paired with soft lighting create a clean and tidy environment, making it a comfortable spot for casual gatherings with friends. The staff are friendly and efficient, and we quickly placed our orders. We tried several signature dishes to see how authentic their tempura and udon really are. Mini Shrimp Tendon & Inaniwa Udon This is truly a "two-in-one" delight! Though the mini tendon is a smaller portion, it’s packed with ingredients: bouncy fried shrimp, sweet mushrooms and pumpkin, silky onsen egg, all paired with a special sauce and Japanese rice. The moist texture leaves a lasting impression. However, the sauce leans on the sweeter side, so those who prefer lighter flavors might need to adjust their expectations. The Inaniwa udon is another highlight—smooth and chewy noodles topped with scallions, seaweed, and tempura crumbs. Simple yet layered, it’s especially refreshing when served cold, making it a perfect summer treat! Anago & Japanese Oyster Tempura Set Beautifully presented, the anago and oyster tempura are crispy on the outside and tender on the inside. The oysters, in particular, are rich in flavor, with a hint of ocean saltiness that bursts with freshness. However, the anago is slightly leaner than expected, lacking the plumpness I had hoped for—perhaps due to variations in the day's ingredients. The set comes with well-portioned sides and rice, making it ideal for those who want to sample multiple dishes without feeling overly full. 4-Piece Sashimi Platter Incredible value for money! The fresh and sweet red shrimp and Japanese scallops, along with melt-in-your-mouth salmon and bonito, make for a satisfying appetizer despite the modest portion size. Overall, the food quality is consistent, and dishes are served promptly. The tendon here follows the Edo-style "moist" approach, where the sauce and fried items blend together, rather than aiming for ultimate crispiness. If you’re a fan of traditional Japanese tempura, this might challenge your expectations. However, it’s precisely this unique moist aesthetic that offers a glimpse into Edo-period culinary culture. The restaurant’s use of Arita porcelain bowls and premium sesame oil are thoughtful details that enhance the dining experience. 📍 Kaneko Hannosuke Shop G16, Lee Tung Avenue, 200 Queen's Road East, Wan Chai (Opposite Wan Chai MTR Station Exit D) 💰 Average cost: $150-200