JAPANESE food is always a draw for Singaporeans. We seem to flock to every new Japanese restaurant that opens.

So I was expecting a large local crowd when I had lunch at Tetsu.

Fortunately, there were only a few groups of Japanese diners, with baby strollers and business suits.

This, for some, is a good sign. If even the 'natives' want a piece of the action, it has to be good. In Tetsu's case, it was more a case of 'not too bad'.

Tetsu prides itself on being Singapore's first diner to offer authentic Kushi-style tempura and tonkatsu menu. Kushi means the food is served in skewers.

On the whole, the food is good enough for the price you pay.

For the best value, get the set meals.

I tried two: The Kaiseki Set B ($45) and the Jubako set ($32).

Set B consists of six-courses. I would give the vegetable and udon dishes a miss if I am not that hungry.

The Jubako style has two surprise boxes, and these will depend on what the chef has on hand.

You can choose between kushi-age (breaded) or Kushi-tem (tempura style) produce.

I found the tempura better. The portions are generous and should satisfy a hungry person.

I like pork so it's no surprise that I liked Tetsu's pork loin katsu ($24.50 for a set).

I found it juicy and fragrant, though one of my lunch companions thought it to be ordinary.

The restaurant itself is family-friendly. I sat next to a table with crying babies and shrieking kids, so be prepared.

Tetsu does not rock the culinary scene but with a faithful fan base, it should be around for a while.

It's a good place to pop into if you're up for Japanese and not quite willing to fork out major money for a meal.

Rating: 3/5

TETSU
#03-18 Tanglin Mall
Opens: 11.30am to 3pm for lunch, 6pm to 10pm for dinner
Tel: 6836 3112

This story was first published in The New Paper on Feb 27, 2008.

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