The clue is in the name, a portmanteau of ‘tempura’ and ‘donburi’. Tendon is therefore a bowl of white rice topped with deep-fried seafood and vegetables. Today, tempura has evolved into a cuisine in its own right, with some specialist restaurants charging tens of thousands of yen for an elaborate set menu, yet tendon remains a humble, affordable dish loved by the masses. Made with fresh seafood that's fried in sesame oil (usually) until golden and crispy, tendon is a go-to fast-food when you need something filling and satisfying.
No matter what Japanese or international dish you're after, you'll almost certainly find it in Tokyo. But some dishes are more Tokyo than others – the iconic foods created or perfect here in the capital. Wondering what these could be? Here are our ten favourites.
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