Tamaoki

Based in the related-business wing of Ota Market, Tamaoki serves light tempura fried to order in copper pots, dished up as casual set meals and rice bowls. The delicate, oil-drained batter stays crisp and piping hot, accentuating the natural character of fresh ingredients sourced right around the market.

The menu features options such as the classic tempura set, which brings together sillago (kisu), pufferfish, chicken breast, and three seasonal vegetables, alongside an upgraded set with two prawns, sillago, and a soft-boiled egg, or an anago set highlighting a whole fried conger eel. Tasting through the varied textures—plump white-fleshed sillago, succulent chicken, and naturally sweet vegetables—is part of the appeal.

Along with set meals, the kitchen serves tendon rice bowls topped with sillago, chicken breast, and vegetables, a deluxe tokujo tendon, and a daily changing set. Diners can also customize their meals with à la carte tempura add-ons, including soft-boiled egg with a runny center, maitake mushrooms, asparagus, and eggplant.

Hours run from 6:00 in the morning until 14:00 in the afternoon, with closures on Wednesdays and Sundays. Situated in an area of the market open to the general public, it is a convenient stop whether you want a hearty breakfast or a lunch of fresh-from-the-fryer tempura.