Tempura Matsui

- 222 E 39th St #24d, New York, NY 10016

In a city as culinarily diverse as New York, true authenticity can be a rare and treasured find. Tempura Matsui, a discreet and elegant Japanese restaurant in Midtown East, offers a dining experience that feels like a genuine journey to Japan. Unlike many of the more casual or fusion-focused eateries, this establishment is dedicated to the art of tempura, elevating it from a common appetizer to the centerpiece of a sophisticated omakase course. The moment you find this hidden gem, tucked away by the entrance of a hotel, you’re transported into a serene, zen-like interior that sets the perfect tone for the meal to come. For New Yorkers who have a deep appreciation for the subtleties of Japanese cuisine, or for anyone seeking to experience what high-quality tempura truly is, Tempura Matsui is an essential destination.

The restaurant's focus on tempura is a testament to its commitment to tradition and quality. Tempura here is described by patrons as light, crispy, and not at all heavy—a stark contrast to the often greasy, battered versions found elsewhere. Each piece, from fresh vegetables to delicate seafood, is a "masterpiece" of culinary skill. The dining experience is not just about the food; it’s an immersive event. The opportunity to sit at the counter and watch the chefs expertly fry each piece of tempura is a highlight that adds to the authenticity and provides a sense of connection to the meal. This meticulous attention to detail and unwavering dedication to the craft is what truly sets Tempura Matsui apart in New York's competitive fine dining landscape.

The overall atmosphere is quiet, cozy, and romantic, making it a perfect spot for a special occasion or a memorable solo dining experience. While the restaurant has a quiet elegance, it remains trendy and welcoming, attracting a discerning crowd of locals and tourists alike. This article will provide a detailed look at what makes Tempura Matsui such a unique and highly-rated establishment, covering everything from its exclusive dining options to its impeccable service and the essential details for planning your visit.

Tempura Matsui is located at 222 E 39th St #24d, New York, NY 10016. Its location in Midtown East places it in a prime, yet discreet, part of the city. The restaurant's entrance is noted to be "tucked away by the entrance of a hotel," giving it the feel of a hidden gem waiting to be discovered. This strategic positioning makes it a secluded oasis away from the direct hustle and bustle of the main avenues.

Its accessibility is a key factor for its popularity. The location is a short walk from Grand Central Terminal, a major transit hub serving multiple subway lines (4, 5, 6, 7, S) and the Metro-North Railroad. This makes it a convenient destination for both New York City residents and tourists staying in the area. While paid street parking is available, as is common in Midtown, the restaurant's close proximity to major public transportation routes makes it incredibly easy to reach without a car.

For those with mobility concerns, the restaurant is well-equipped with a wheelchair-accessible entrance and seating, demonstrating a commitment to welcoming all guests. The discreet address and the sense of discovery upon arrival add to the overall upscale and exclusive ambiance.

Tempura Matsui offers a carefully curated set of services designed for an elevated dining experience.

• Dine-in and Seating: The restaurant provides a beautiful and comfortable setting for an exclusive dine-in experience. Seating is available at a traditional counter, allowing guests to watch the chefs at work, as well as in other seating areas.
• Outdoor Seating: For those who prefer to dine al fresco, the restaurant also offers outdoor seating, a pleasant option when the weather permits.
• Reservations Required: Due to its intimate setting and high demand, the restaurant requires reservations for both lunch and dinner. This ensures a personalized and unhurried experience for every guest.
• Offerings: The menu is exclusively focused on omakase courses, featuring appetizers, sashimi, and the star of the show, tempura. The restaurant also has a full-service bar with a great wine list, as well as beer, cocktails, and hard liquor.

The dining options are specific to lunch and dinner, with a dessert course included in the omakase menu. This focused approach allows the chefs to master their craft and provide a consistent, high-quality meal every time.

Tempura Matsui stands out in the New York dining scene for several key highlights that define its unique character.

• Authentic Tempura Omakase: The restaurant is celebrated for serving tempura "for what it truly is"—light, crispy, and non-greasy. This authentic approach is a major highlight, especially for those who have traveled to Japan and appreciate the traditional style. The omakase course, which allows the chef to showcase a variety of seasonal and fresh ingredients, is a testament to this commitment.
• Impeccable Service: Customer reviews consistently praise the "impeccable" and "attentive" service. From the detailed explanation of each dish to the small, thoughtful gestures like folding napkins and providing a bag for a purse, the staff goes above and beyond to make every guest feel privileged and well-cared for.
• Great Wine List: A highlight for connoisseurs is the excellent and extensive wine list, which complements the delicate flavors of the tempura perfectly. The bar also offers a range of other alcoholic beverages.
• Cozy, Quiet, and Romantic Atmosphere: The ambiance is a major draw. The zen-like Japanese interior creates a serene, quiet, and romantic setting, making it an ideal place for a special date or an intimate dinner.
• Chef’s Counter Experience: The opportunity to sit at the counter and watch the chefs work is an incredible feature that provides a truly interactive and educational dining experience. It's a privilege to witness the art of tempura being created.
• Lunch Option: The lunch omakase is noted as a fantastic highlight, offering an impressive variety at a more affordable price point than the dinner service, making high-quality tempura more accessible to a wider audience.

For those who wish to experience the unique dining experience at Tempura Matsui, here is the essential contact information:

Address: 222 E 39th St #24d, New York, NY 10016

Phone: (212) 986-8885

Choosing Tempura Matsui is a decision to embrace an exceptional and authentic dining experience. What makes it worth choosing is its unwavering focus on a single culinary art form, elevated to a level of perfection rarely seen in New York City. For anyone who has been disappointed by heavy, greasy tempura in the past, this restaurant offers a revelatory experience that will redefine your understanding of the dish. The meticulous attention to detail, from the freshness of the ingredients to the flawless execution of each piece, is a testament to the chefs' skill and passion.

Beyond the food, the service is a compelling reason to visit. The staff's attentiveness and friendliness create an atmosphere of true hospitality that is a significant part of the overall experience. The quiet and romantic setting, combined with a great wine list, makes it an ideal spot for a celebration or an intimate evening. While the prices are on the higher end, as is typical for fine dining omakase, the value is in the quality and the memorable experience it provides. For those who seek to savor true Japanese culinary craftsmanship and impeccable service in a beautiful setting, Tempura Matsui is not just a restaurant—it's a privilege to dine there, and an experience you will not soon forget.

Tempura Matsui

222 E 39th St #24d, New York, NY 10016, USA