Laboriously crafted kaiseki courses served
with specially selected sake.
An unmistakeably Japanese atmosphere
in an intimate setting.
Visitors walk into the incense infused genkan, the entrance area where guests remove their footwear, and can see the modest little counter space at the end of the hall.
The antique fittings and furnishings seem to create a traditional atmosphere, but the lustrous red counter and highly-functional open kitchen add a modern flair.
Tengenji Ono seats only eight, but all are made to forget their daily cares for a moment within that comfortable, intimate space.
Owner Yoshikatsu Ono explains that he hopes to "provide the customer with exactly what they wish for."
While it is a course-based menu, guests are invited to make requests regarding food they like or dislike, so that Ono can respond meticulously to each guest's desires.
He must be flexible in terms of when he serves each dish in the course as well. For example, guests who start by asking for a beer will be served first with deep-fried dishes that pair well with that beverage.
The most important thing is not to follow a plan, but to provide a meal that guests will enjoy.
Cuisine changes radically when great care is taken in its preparation, even when using orthodox cooking methods, and the unexpected food combinations invoke a fresh taste sensation. Ono's cuisine is packed full of hidden surprises.
Ono is direct in his use of flavours, and those unique tastes keep bringing gourmands back for more.
Ono explained that while delicious food is obviously important, he takes care to offer a good atmosphere and good service as well because he wants to create a place where people feel comfortable.
One way he does this is by ensuring that service is discreet and unobtrusive, so customer conversations are not interrupted. It's a perfect place to enjoy some time with a friend - and you will want to return again and again.
