Return to Tenchi - Calgary Alberta

After a previous trip down to Tenchi in Kensignton without a camera I returned fully equiped with a very interesting plan. I decided to change my style in ordering sushi. After three years of trying the same staples and occasionaly mixing it up I have decided to now simply ask for a 20$ Omakase(Translates to chefs choice). I went in blind and my sense were very much appreciative.

From Calgarys own Pragmatic and Personal Sushi Blog

The chef accepted the challenge and started me off with a soup and a sea weed salad. I have a feeling the miso was not home made, but I could not tell, it resembled the packaged products but had a fresh tasting sea weed and green onions. The salad was a very nice mix of fresh soaked sea weed, seasame seeds and a special sauce. I also decided to go a little all out and grab a sopporo.

From Calgarys own Pragmatic and Personal Sushi Blog

I was then again suprised by a fair plate of mixed tempura. Yam, melon and shrimp where key players in this plate. A very nice fry with not much oil. A definit winner. The sushi arrived just a little later and was shocked to see a a selection of futomaki (large roll), nigiri(Pieces on rice) and sashimi (Simply fish). The shrimp, scallop and red clam were amazing. I was shocked when I saw two pieces of shell fish on my plate considering that their season is usually in the winter. I inquired further and found that Tenchi has an ace up it's sleeve. It imports their clams f rom Japan. Japan is known for having the best, year round crop of clam. It was leaner, more succulent and smooth as butter. If you are to check out this restaurant I highly suggest getting clam and scallops.

From Calgarys own Pragmatic and Personal Sushi Blog

The crunchy roll blew my mind. I still am not able to guess at what was in it. But it had a crunchy, smooth, popping texture that exploded my taste buds. Tempura, fish roe, avocadoes and cuccumbers where used in this piece, I also believe there may have been some chicken believe it or not. I am missing what the tempura is but non the less very tasty.

From Calgarys own Pragmatic and Personal Sushi Blog

The sashimi although simple was very good. The maguro and sake were very tasty and very fresh. Over all Tenchi may or may not be a step above their competition across the street ( Sushi Zeal) . Both are very hospitable, good service and some impecable food. I'll rate this one fairly high for it's flexibility, service, food quality, originality and atmosphere. I'll rate them with a 7.5 of a total 10.

Never be afraid to ask for what ever the chef is willing to make for you. It's a great way to save on a usually costly trip to the sushi bar and it will give you some diversity in what you eat. It may or may not also be a compliment to the chef.

Till the next time, Mata Ne!