Tempura Ensei at Palais Renaissance partners with Kaluga Queen, one of the world’s leading caviar brands, to present an exclusive three-week-only caviar and tempura omakase experience.
At Tempura Ensei, you will be treated to authentic Edo-style tempura prepared using techniques passed down from the 120-year-old Tenkane in Japan. To highlight the natural flavours of seasonal ingredients flown in several times a week, Executive Chef Naruki Takeshima, who trained at Tenkane, uses premium Tomizawa Super Violet flour, chilled batter, and high-quality goma abura sesame oil.
For this collaboration, each guest receives a personal tin of Kaluga Queen Caviar to enjoy throughout the meal.
Red Snapper Carpaccio 4/5
Shirako Chawanmushi 5/5
Dinner began with an elegantly presented Red Snapper Carpaccio dressed in a citrusy yuzu-sesame oil, followed by a Shirako Chawanmushi with Cauliflower Cream, an ingenious creation. The delicate flavours melded into a milky, creamy profile, beautifully lifted by a dash of sansho pepper, and it was one of the best pairings with the savoury caviar.
Tiger prawn 3.5/5
Prawn head 4/5
Next came a selection of Edo-style tempura served with condiments, beginning with Tiger Prawn. The crispy prawn heads were wonderfully moreish, especially with curry salt.
Kisu Tempura 4/5
We then had Kisu Tempura, a popular seasonal delicacy. With its tender, flaky white flesh, the light, airy batter gave it a delightful, crispy exterior, and the caviar elevated its subtle sweetness.
Kobako Kani 4.5/5
In between tempura courses, we were served Kobako Kani, a female snow crab, a treasured winter delicacy prized for its sweet meat and rich roe.
Uni 4/5
Sumi Ika 4.5/5
The Uni Tempura paired with caviar made for a luxurious bite, but my personal favourite was the Sumi Ika. Its surprisingly creamy texture was further enhanced by the briny richness of the caviar.
Unagi 4/5
Unagi Tempura was served like a handroll, delectable with a sweet-savoury tare.
Asparagus Tempura 4/5
Sweet Potato Tempura 5/5
The selection included 2 vegetable tempura, Asparagus and Sweet Potato. The sweet potato was especially memorable for its sweet and creamy interior. I found myself wishing there were more of it.
Hot Soba 3/5
The omakase concludes with a choice of Tendon, Tencha or Hot Soba. I opted for the Hot Soba, which was somewhat lacklustre. The Tendon would have been a more satisfying finish. I found the shrimp tempura somewhat dry.
Dessert 5/5
Dessert ended the meal on a refreshing note with a slice of juicy and sweet musk melon and strawberry.
Available till 31 December 2025, Reservations for this Exclusive Menu ($388) at Tempura Ensei are now open. For more information or to secure your seat, visit the official website: https://ensei.sg/
Photos and words by Si An. A homebody who is allured by travelling, loves the feel of freedom, the smell of the rain and the aroma of fine coffee and food.
Tempura Ensei
Palais Renaissance
90 Orchard Road
#B1-06/07
Singapore 238871
Tel: +65 9178 0664 / +65 6226 0500
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Nerest MRT: Orchard (NS, TE Line)
Opening Hours:
Daily: 12pm – 2.30pm, 6pm – 10pm
Direction:
Alight at Orchard MRT station. Take Exit 4. Walk to Wheelock Place. Walk to the traffic junction of Orchard Road and Angullia Park. Cross the road to the Royal Thai Embassy. Turn left and continue down Orchard Road. Walk to the destination. Journey time is about 8 minutes. [Map]