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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Best of San Diego

Tempura

Tempura that maintains its crisp integrity instead of arriving as a soggy, heavy mess.

Based on 592 Opinions
+589
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01
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Small Japanese spot offers a cozy atmosphere with natural light and dark stone decor. Avocado tempura is a crispy highlight that stands out. Regulars love the authentic ramen and fair prices, making it a chill place to enjoy.

Avocado tempura stands out with its crispy texture and rich flavor. It consistently impresses as a highlight dish.

People are saying

"The avocado tempura was really good."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended for large groups to ensure accommodation.

2

Parking is limited to 20 minutes in front, but servers allow longer stays.

3

Expect reasonable wait times during dinner rush hours.

02
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Spacious interior with cherry blossom decor sets a jazzy, relaxed mood. Shrimp tempura shines in rolls like the Fire Fire roll, blending crunch with spicy mayo and salmon. Covered patio offers a quiet spot to enjoy lively 1920's tunes and open kitchen vibes.

Shrimp tempura offers a great crunch and appears in several rolls like the Fire Fire and Shrimp Tempura Roll. The Fire Fire roll pairs tempura with spicy mayo and salmon for a flavorful bite.

People are saying

"The tempura in the Fire Fire roll gives a great crunch."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 4-6pm with discounted drinks and appetizers.

2

Draft beer is half off during happy hour, with edamame for $3 and dumplings for $4.

3

Reservations for Omakase are required 24 hours in advance, costing $120 per person.

03
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Cozy sushi spot offers a peaceful atmosphere with authentic Japanese family care. Fresh sushi melts in your mouth, paired perfectly with crispy tempura and classic sides like gyoza. Warm, calm space invites diners seeking high-quality ingredients and a genuine experience.

Tempura here has a solid texture and pairs well with sushi that melts in your mouth. Meals and bento boxes often include vegetable tempura alongside gyoza, California rolls, and rice.

People are saying

"The tempura here just melts in your mouth."

Good to know

1

Reservations are advisable as the restaurant fills up quickly after 6:15 PM.

2

Expect prices around $15-20 per roll, which is typical for sushi.

3

The lunch specials offer high quality at reasonable prices.

04
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Small, family-run sushi spot offers a cozy vibe with low-volume 80s music and friendly staff. Tempura dishes shine with light, crispy batter and include calamari and vegetables. The tempura udon features a rich, fresh broth that complements the meal well.

Tempura dishes feature a light, crispy batter and include options like calamari and vegetables. The tempura udon pairs well with a rich, fresh broth, though some vegetable tempura pieces could be cooked longer.

People are saying

"The calamari tempura has a light, crispy batter."

Good to know

1

Parking is easy and plentiful, with no fees.

2

Lunch specials are available and provide good value.

3

Expect quick service, especially during lunch hours.

05
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Spacious spot blends Japanese-Italian fusion with art-filled walls and a brick pizza oven. Squash blossoms in tempura batter offer a crisp, unique taste. Lively vibe with loud 80s-90s music and a dog-friendly patio make it a fun, casual hangout.

Squash blossoms in tempura batter stand out with delicate crispness. The Tempura Mediterraneo offers a unique twist, matching well with other dishes like sushi and pasta.

People are saying

"The Tempura Mediterraneo squash blossoms are to die for."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs until 7 p.m. on industry Mondays with great drink selections.

2

Every Wednesday, there are free comedy shows starting at 8 p.m.

3

Karaoke night happens every Thursday at 10 p.m. with a two-drink minimum.

06
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Small sushi spot shines with fresh sushi and a calm vibe. Unique tempura rolls like calamari and jalapeno bomb add bold flavors. Intimate setting and cordial service make it perfect for quiet meals or romantic dinners.

Fresh and delicious tempura comes in unique forms like the calamari tempura roll and the rainbow spider roll. The jalapeno bomb also offers a tasty twist for tempura fans.

Good to know

1

Expect no wait times around 12:30pm on Wednesdays.

2

Sushi Kami is closed on Mondays.

3

Parking is limited due to a small lot.

07
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Casual Japanese spot offers crispy shrimp tempura alongside sushi and salads. Generous portions and affordable prices make it family-friendly. Dim lighting creates a quiet vibe perfect for relaxed meals.

Shrimp tempura stands out with its crispy fried texture and appears in rolls and bento boxes. Tempura dishes come alongside sushi and salads, offering a variety of flavors in each meal.

People are saying

"The tempura shrimp here is scrumptious."

Good to know

1

Parking can be challenging, with tight stalls available.

2

Food is served within 20-30 minutes after ordering.

3

The sushi costs around $20 per set.

08
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Sushi bar offers fresh fish and high-quality sushi in a spacious setting with a lively yet family-friendly vibe. Mixed tempura shines with crispy, well-seasoned pieces and standout rolls like the Tempura California. Outdoor patio adds a lovely touch.

Mixed tempura offers a variety with crispy, well-seasoned pieces. Tempura rolls like the Tempura California roll and vegetarian options stand out for their texture and flavor.

People are saying

"I loved the tempura; it was wonderfully cooked."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs daily from 3:30 PM to 5:30 PM with 30% off food.

2

During happy hour, there are no discounts on beers.

3

Parking can be challenging due to a busy garage.

09
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Sushi spot offers a local vibe with calm energy and fresh sushi. Shrimp tempura adds a crispy texture to rolls like the Shrimp Tempura Roll. Enjoy pleasant decorations and reasonable prices while savoring varied menu options including vegetarian dishes.

Good to know

1

Parking can be challenging; the nearest public lot is a block away.

2

The menu features a large selection of sushi, non-sushi items, and appetizers.

3

Happy hour runs daily from 12-6pm with great discounts on sushi and drinks.

10
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Small Japanese spot offers authentic izakaya vibe with cozy tatami seating and lively late nights. Avocado Tempura shines as a fresh, flavorful choice, while locals savor unique ramen and yakitori. Lounge can get hot, but dining side stays quiet and relaxed.

Avocado Tempura stands out as a flavorful and fresh option, often highlighted for its quality. Mixed tempura served with hot udon and shrimp tempura in rolls also show well-cooked, tasty results.

People are saying

"I thought the Avocado Tempura was worth dying for."

Good to know

1

Hinotez offers happy hour deals on drinks and appetizers from 4-6pm daily.

2

Parking is available in the rear, off Balboa, with plenty of spaces.

3

Expect a wait time during peak hours on weekends, especially after 7pm.

11
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Spacious seating and modern casual design create a clean, classy setting with a homey vibe. Tempura salmon shines in rolls like the Salmon tempura roll and the Forbidden Pleasure Roll. Chill 80's pop tunes keep the mood friendly and welcoming.

Tempura salmon stands out in the rolls, especially in the Salmon tempura roll and the Forbidden Pleasure Roll with spicy tuna and tempura flakes. The Tempura Udon offers a rich broth and the ice cream tempura adds a unique twist.

People are saying

"I tried the tempura udon soup with its rich and flavorful broth."

Good to know

1

The restaurant is wheelchair accessible for those with mobility needs.

2

There is a large free parking lot available nearby.

3

Expect longer wait times during peak dinner hours.

12
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Cozy sushi spot offers an intimate atmosphere with authentic Tokyo vibes. Shrimp tempura shines in dishes like the tempura sampler and specialty rolls, blending crispy texture with spicy mayo and eel sauce. Soft music creates a serene, chill energy perfect for quiet meals or dates.

Shrimp tempura appears in several dishes like the tempura sampler, tempura udon, and specialty rolls such as the Yorimichi and Surf and Skate rolls. These rolls combine crispy shrimp tempura with ingredients like spicy mayo, eel sauce, and seared beef for varied textures and flavors.

People are saying

"The tempura udon was delicious."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs until 6 PM with discounted prices on select items.

2

The restaurant can only accommodate about 25 customers at a time.

3

Reservations are recommended due to limited seating and popularity.

13
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Cozy spot offers dog-friendly patio and visible open kitchen. Crunchy tempura shrimp roll shines alongside filling bentos with teriyaki chicken and rice. Friendly, quick service makes it great for casual Japanese meals.

Good to know

1

The lunch and dinner specials offer excellent deals for budget-conscious diners.

2

You must order and pay at the counter before receiving your food.

3

Parking is ample, but allow extra time to find a spot during busy hours.

14
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Sushi bar offers a laid-back vibe with lively energy around the sushi bar and sports on screens. Shrimp tempura inside a cocktail roll adds a unique twist blending spicy tuna and eel sauce. Kappo-style tempura mixes tradition with modern flavors but can be tricky to eat.

Shrimp tempura appears inside a cocktail roll with spicy tuna, unagi, eel sauce, and avocado relish. Kappo-style tempura blends traditional and modern Japanese flavors but can be loosely wrapped and tricky to eat.

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended due to the restaurant's popularity.

2

The restaurant does not have an online booking system; calling is necessary.

3

A mini omakase of nigiri can be requested on the same day.

15
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Sushi spot features modern decor and a lively atmosphere that energizes guests. Crunchy Shrimp Tempura shines with its rich flavor and creamy avocado rolls. Staff offer warm towels and endless green tea, enhancing the dining experience.

Crunchy Shrimp Tempura stands out with its texture and flavor. Rolls combine tempura shrimp with creamy avocado and zesty sauce for a rich taste.

People are saying

"The shrimp tempura here is so crunchy and delicious."

Good to know

1

The dinner price is $39.99 for all-you-can-eat sushi.

2

Expect an hour and a half wait during busy times.

3

Lunch pricing applies if you arrive before 2:30 pm.

16
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Small space with intimate dining and booth seating creates a cozy vibe. Crisp tempura veggie and shrimp combo shines with fresh flavors. Low club music and vintage anime on TVs add an underground speakeasy feel for a hip sushi experience.

Good to know

1

They offer a wonderful later happy hour from 7:30 to 9 pm, Monday to Thursday.

2

Reservations are recommended for weekend dinner to avoid long wait times.

3

The restaurant enforces a strict 2-hour table limit due to its small size.

17
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Small interior creates a quiet atmosphere perfect for relaxed chats. Menu shines with fresh sushi and quick lunch options. Tempura udon offers soft noodles, though shrimp tempura rolls can be fragile. Parking shares space with a market, so availability varies.

Tempura udon noodles cook soft and chewy. Vegetable tempura comes as a small portion with bento boxes. Shrimp tempura rolls can be fragile inside.

People are saying

"The bento box is a good deal with miso soup."

Good to know

1

There was ample parking, but it could be difficult to find during peak hours.

2

I experienced no wait during lunch hour; I just walked in.

3

The prices at Go Go Sushi & Ramen are budget-friendly.

18
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Small, intimate space blends classic Japanese style with rustic wood decor for a tranquil atmosphere. Tempura shines in rolls like the Kobe with black tiger prawn and the Scorpion topped with tempura soft-shell crab, adding crisp texture. Outdoor dining and a sushi bar offer relaxed, authentic experiences.

Tempura appears in rolls like the Kobe and Scorpion. The Kobe roll features black tiger prawn, tempura onion, and seared wagyu. The Scorpion roll has tempura soft-shell crab on top, adding crispiness.

People are saying

"The tempura batter is so thin and delicate."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended as the restaurant gets packed quickly.

2

Curbside pick-up and online ordering are available for convenience.

3

Seating is not wheelchair accessible for parties less than four.

19
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Hamburger spot shines with flame grilled char burgers that stay hot and juicy. Tempura green beans and avocado add a crispy, tasty twist. Outdoor seating offers ample sun coverage in a quaint, quiet setting with easy kiosk ordering.

Tempura green beans and avocado tempura come out crispy and tasty. They pair well with juicy burgers and crispy onion rings.

People are saying

"The tempura here is so crispy and light, it's amazing."

Good to know

1

Parking is limited, and finding a spot can be challenging.

2

The drive-thru is available but may be tight for larger vehicles.

3

Food is cooked to order, so expect a short wait time.

20
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Cozy diner with warm wood paneling and soft City-Pop music creates a laidback vibe. Known for authentic home-style comfort food and great for solo diners or small groups. Vegetable tempura is a highlight, though a bit greasy, it remains enjoyably crispy.

Offers a variety of tempura and fried dishes with a focus on vegetable tempura. The tempura tends to be a bit greasy but still enjoyable.

People are saying

"I found the vegetable tempura to be amazing."

Good to know

1

Parking is tight in the area, so expect to park elsewhere or wait.

2

Happy hour offers many choices, including discounted appetizers.

3

Prices are generally modest, making it a budget-friendly option.

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