Discover the Ultimate Tempura Experience in Tokyo
From July 18 to August 2, 2026, Tokyo food lovers will have a unique opportunity to enjoy the exquisite flavors of "Tempura Kuruma," a renowned tempura restaurant based in Gunma Prefecture, at a special pop-up event hosted at "Kappo Takashi" in Minami Aoyama. This collaboration, organized by JSTARs Co., Ltd., promises to deliver the authentic taste that has captivated many in the local area to the metropolis.
Local Delicacies Reach Tokyo
JSTARs aims to connect Japan's diverse culinary culture to the future, ensuring that the treasures of regional restaurants reach a wider audience. Tempura Kuruma, praised for its incredible tempura cuisine since its establishment in 2014, is making the journey from the tranquil city of Tatebayashi to the bustling streets of Tokyo. By alleviating the barriers of distance, JSTARs wants to introduce the flavors of Japan's local gems to those who have been unable to visit them.
The Star of the Show: Tempura Kuruma
Tempura Kuruma has garnered multiple accolades including being listed among Tabelog's top 100 restaurants and winning The Tabelog Award Bronze. The restaurant is helmed by Chef Tomoya Kurumazaki, who honed his skills for over 15 years in traditional establishments before opening his own. With a commitment to using only the freshest seasonal ingredients sourced directly from local farmers and markets, Chef Kurumazaki prepares his dishes using 100% pure sesame oil, ensuring the true essence of each ingredient shines through.
"We believe that meals leave no traces; hence, we strive to provide experiences that last in memory," says Chef Kurumazaki. During the pop-up, the chef will bring the authentic experiences of Tatebayashi directly to Tokyo, offering a taste of local culture that is usually out of reach for city dwellers.
The Popup with a Special Menu
Featured prominently on the menu is the special dish named "Ultimate Tempura Bowl". This extraordinary dish includes live, fresh shrimp, seasonal fish, vegetables, and the signature live eel, all presented atop a perfect bowl of rice. The rice is sourced from pesticide-free, officially recognized farmers in Niigata, cooked meticulously in a clay pot for each serving.
Guests will have the chance to savor this exclusive dish prepared right before their eyes at the counter, where only 8 seats will be available. Due to limited availability each day, reservations are crucial to guarantee a spot for this extraordinary culinary experience. Detailed menu options and pricing are available on the reservation page.
Event Details
- - Event Name: Local Pop-Up #01 "Ultimate Tempura Bowl” Tempura Kuruma in Tokyo
- - Event Dates: July 18 (Saturday) - August 2 (Sunday), 2026
- - Location: Kappo Takashi, 4-26-12 Minami Aoyama, B1F, Tokyo
- - Hours: 11:00 AM - 2:00 PM (40-minute dining limit)
- - Reservation and Payment: Strictly by reservation and pre-payment through OMAKASE.
- - Reservation Link: Reserve Here
The Future of Local Delicacies
JSTARs is committed to continuous collaborations with regional restaurants across Japan through its Local Pop-Up series. This initiative is designed to showcase the rich culinary heritage of Japan, making them accessible to new audiences in urban settings. Future events beyond this initial pop-up will be announced through official channels. Stay tuned by following their
official LINE.
About Tempura Kuruma
- - Address: 703-2 Nobecho, Tatebayashi City, Gunma Prefecture
- - Chef: Tomoya Kurumazaki
About JSTARs
- - Company: JSTARs Co., Ltd.
- - CEO: Anna Hattori
- - Mission: Preserving, nurturing, and globalizing Japan's culinary culture through investments, operational support, and consultancy. They focus on discovering and producing local culinary gems while offering expansion support both domestically and internationally.