Tendon Tempura Carlos Jr

Hello, Pasadena food enthusiasts and lovers of authentic Japanese cuisine! Are you on the hunt for a dining experience where every bite of tempura is a testament to crisp perfection and delicate flavor? Then you absolutely must visit Tendon Tempura Carlos Jr! Located conveniently on East Colorado Boulevard, this cozy spot has quickly become a standout for those seeking expertly prepared tempura and other beloved Japanese comfort foods. While some new spots might have growing pains, the quality of their signature tempura shines through, making it a place well worth exploring.

Tendon Tempura Carlos Jr is renowned for its signature dish: tempura that is consistently described as "light, crispy, and not greasy at all—exactly how it should be." This dedication to proper technique is evident in every bite, from the plump and tender shrimp to the seasonal vegetables that retain their perfect "bit of bite." Their "Special Tempura Plate" is a particular highlight, offering a delightful variety of shrimp, fish, sweet potato, pumpkin, and other seasonal veggies, each perfectly fried and ready to be dipped in their house-made sauce without losing its "clean crunch." The meal is thoughtfully rounded out with a "perfectly cooked bowl of rice and a side of miso soup."

Beyond the exceptional tempura, Tendon Tempura Carlos Jr provides a "small but clean and welcoming" space. The goal is to create a chill setting where diners can truly savor their meal. While there have been some mixed reviews regarding service, particularly concerning communication and attentiveness for those seated outside, the overall sentiment highlights the quality of the food and the potential for a truly satisfying dining experience. The staff generally aims for a friendly interaction, and when things align, the "food came out pretty quickly even during the lunch rush." Chef Carlos Pinto, who honed his skills in Japan, brings an authentic touch to his creations, making this a unique Japanese culinary destination right here in California.

This article will delve into all the reasons why Tendon Tempura Carlos Jr is a must-try for locals in Pasadena. We’ll cover its convenient location, the precise services it offers, its distinct features that set it apart, and why it’s perfectly suited for those seeking a genuine taste of well-executed Japanese tempura. Get ready to discover a spot where crispiness reigns supreme!

Tendon Tempura Carlos Jr is conveniently located at 694 E Colorado Blvd, Pasadena, CA 91101, USA. This address places it directly on East Colorado Boulevard, one of Pasadena's most active and recognizable thoroughfares. Its position on this major street makes it a highly accessible destination for residents throughout Pasadena and surrounding areas in the San Gabriel Valley, including Altadena, San Marino, and South Pasadena.

Being situated on E Colorado Boulevard ensures high visibility and straightforward access for those traveling by car. While street parking in this busy area can sometimes be a challenge, the location within a commercial stretch often means there are various parking options available, including nearby public lots or metered street parking. Patrons are advised to factor in a little extra time for parking, especially during peak dining hours.

The restaurant's presence on a key boulevard also means it is well-served by local public transportation, providing an alternative for those who prefer not to drive. Its integration into the vibrant fabric of Pasadena makes it a practical and appealing choice for both planned meals and spontaneous visits, whether you're coming from work, running errands, or enjoying a day exploring the city. The central location contributes to its appeal as a go-to spot for authentic Japanese comfort food.

Tendon Tempura Carlos Jr, while specializing in tempura, offers a focused menu designed to deliver an authentic Japanese comfort food experience:

• Dine-In Service: The restaurant provides a "small but clean and welcoming" space for guests to enjoy their meal in a "chill setting." It features limited seating, including counter seats and possibly some outdoor seating, creating an intimate dining experience.

• Specialty Tempura: Their core offering is expertly prepared tempura, noted for being "light, crispy, and not greasy at all." They offer a variety of options including shrimp, fish (like white fish/silago), sweet potato, pumpkin, shishito pepper, maitake mushroom, eggplant, zucchini, chicken, and even King Crab tempura.

• Tempura Bowls (Tendon): A signature offering is the "Tendon" (tempura over rice), available in various combinations such as Special Tempura Bowl, Regular Tempura Bowl, Shrimp Tempura Bowl, Chicken Tempura Bowl, and Premium Tempura Bowl (with eel/conger eel). These bowls typically come with a half-boiled egg and miso soup.

• Tempura Plates: For those who prefer their tempura separate from the rice, they offer various "Tempura Plates" with similar combinations as the bowls, allowing for individual dipping in the house-made sauce.

• Noodle Dishes: The menu also includes Japanese comfort foods like Udon and Soba noodles, often available with tempura combinations (e.g., Small Tempura Bowl and Soba, Tempura and Soba).

• Side Dishes: Essential accompaniments like "perfectly cooked bowl of rice" and "miso soup" are provided. They also offer unique pickled items like pickled ginger and pickled celery (with a sesame oil touch).

• Sushi Rolls (Limited Offering): While primarily a tempura specialist, public information indicates they offer some sushi rolls as part of their broader Japanese comfort food menu, such as the Carlos Tempura Roll, Salmon Roll, Dragon Roll, and Yellowtail Roll.

• Dessert Options: The menu includes Japanese-inspired desserts like Mochi Ice Tempura, Green Tea Tiramisu, Green Tea Cheese Cake, and Yuzu Cheese Cake.

• Beverages: They offer a selection of beverages including beer (like Sapporo Draft) and various sakes (hot, cold, nigori, junmai ginjo).

• Takeout and Delivery: Tendon Tempura Carlos Jr is available for takeout and delivery through platforms like Uber Eats and Postmates, providing convenience for those who prefer to enjoy their meal at home.

Tendon Tempura Carlos Jr distinguishes itself in Pasadena with several key features and culinary highlights:

• Masterfully Prepared Tempura: The most significant highlight is the quality of their tempura, consistently praised for being "light, crispy, and not greasy at all—exactly how it should be." This demonstrates a mastery of the frying technique, resulting in a clean crunch.

• Variety in Tempura Selection: Their menu offers a diverse range of tempura items, from classic shrimp and white fish to seasonal vegetables (sweet potato, pumpkin, shishito pepper) and even unique additions like King Crab tempura. This variety caters to different preferences.

• Thoughtful Combinations: The "Special Tempura Plate" is a prime example of their well-curated offerings, providing a balanced meal with a variety of expertly fried components, perfectly cooked rice, and miso soup. The option to add ikura (salmon roe) to bowls is also a unique highlight.

• Signature Half-Boiled Egg Tempura: A popular and often recommended item is their half-boiled egg tempura, designed to be popped over the rice and tempura, allowing the yolk to "drip into the rice and tempura for a satisfying bowl."

• House-Made Dipping Sauce: The accompanying "house-made sauce" is specially designed to complement the tempura without making it soggy, allowing each piece to "hold onto just enough" flavor.

• Authentic Japanese Comfort Food: While tempura is the star, the menu extends to other Japanese comfort foods like udon, soba, and a selection of sushi rolls, offering a broader appeal for those craving traditional Japanese flavors.

• Cozy and Welcoming Atmosphere: The space is described as "small but clean and welcoming," creating a "chill setting" ideal for a quick, quality meal.

• Chef Carlos Pinto's Expertise: The chef's background, having gone to Japan from Peru to learn "real tempura," underscores the authenticity and dedication to traditional techniques that result in high-quality dishes.

• Efficient Service (during rush): Despite being a small space and potentially busy, some reviews indicate that "food came out pretty quickly even during the lunch rush," which is a plus for those on a tight schedule.

Based on the available public information, Tendon Tempura Carlos Jr in Pasadena does not explicitly advertise ongoing, formal promotions or happy hour specials. The reviews primarily highlight the inherent quality of their tempura and the satisfying nature of their meals at their standard pricing.

However, the restaurant's value proposition comes from its specialized focus and the quality it delivers. For example, the "Special Tempura Plate" is noted as a comprehensive and well-executed meal. While not a "discount," the inclusion of a variety of tempura items, rice, and miso soup in a single plate at a set price offers a complete and satisfying experience. The menu also lists various "Tempura Bowls" and "Tempura Plates" at different price points, allowing customers to choose an option that fits their budget and appetite.

It is common for specialized restaurants to focus on consistently delivering high quality rather than running frequent promotions. To inquire about any potential unadvertised daily specials, seasonal menu items, or any unique offerings that might be available during your visit, it is always recommended to:

• Call the restaurant directly: Use the provided phone numbers to ask about current specials.

• Visit in person: The staff would be able to inform you about any daily features or new additions to their menu that might not be widely publicized.

Tendon Tempura Carlos Jr's core appeal lies in its dedication to perfecting its signature tempura, offering a consistent and high-quality Japanese comfort food experience for locals in Pasadena.

For those in California eager to experience the light, crispy tempura and authentic Japanese comfort food at Tendon Tempura Carlos Jr in Pasadena, here’s how you can get in touch:

• Address: 694 E Colorado Blvd, Pasadena, CA 91101, USA

• Phone: (626) 298-6200

• Mobile Phone: +1 626-298-6200

Conveniently located on East Colorado Boulevard, Tendon Tempura Carlos Jr is easy to find for locals across Pasadena. Whether you're planning a quick lunch, a satisfying dinner, or simply want to inquire about their special tempura plate or other menu items, calling ahead is always a good idea, especially given the potentially limited seating. This will help ensure a smooth and pleasant experience as you discover this unique spot for perfectly executed Japanese tempura.

For residents of California, particularly those in Pasadena and the surrounding Los Angeles area, Tendon Tempura Carlos Jr presents a unique and highly suitable dining option for several compelling reasons. It stands out by offering a dedicated and masterful approach to Japanese tempura, providing a distinct culinary experience that fills a specific niche for local food enthusiasts.

The primary reason Tendon Tempura Carlos Jr is ideal for locals is its uncompromising commitment to perfectly executed tempura. The consistent praise for its "light, crispy, and not greasy at all" quality means that those seeking authentic, high-quality tempura no longer need to search far and wide. The "Special Tempura Plate," with its variety of fresh ingredients—from plump shrimp to seasonal vegetables—offers a comprehensive and satisfying meal that showcases the chef's expertise. For anyone who appreciates the subtle art of tempura, this establishment delivers an experience that is hard to find elsewhere locally.

While the space is "small but clean and welcoming," it contributes to a "chill setting" that allows diners to focus on the food. This intimate atmosphere can be a welcome change from larger, noisier restaurants, making it a great spot for a focused and delicious lunch or a quiet dinner. The ability of the food to come out "pretty quickly even during the lunch rush" also caters to the needs of busy locals looking for a quality meal without extensive wait times, though it's wise to note varying experiences regarding service attentiveness.

Furthermore, the inclusion of classic Japanese comfort foods like udon and soba, alongside their specialty tempura bowls and plates, provides a well-rounded menu that appeals to various preferences. Chef Carlos Pinto's dedication, having learned the craft in Japan, instills confidence in the authenticity and quality of the dishes.

In conclusion, Tendon Tempura Carlos Jr is a highly suitable choice for Pasadena locals who value expertly prepared, authentic Japanese tempura. It offers a singular focus on a beloved dish, delivering a consistent and satisfying experience in a comfortable setting. If you're in the mood for some truly well-executed tempura, this cozy spot on East Colorado Boulevard is definitely worth a visit.

Tendon Tempura Carlos Jr

694 E Colorado Blvd, Pasadena, CA 91101, USA