nihonbashi tamai

- Anago -

The nostalgia of the conger eel lunch box

The nostalgia of the conger eel lunch box

Swaying in the breeze just above the entrance to Nihonbashi Tamai is a red noren curtain imprinted with the Japanese characters that read anago (conger eel). On a visit to this shop, where you can sense the vestiges of old Edo, you should definitely try their signature hakomeshi. This special dish is served in a lacquered lunch box with strips of cooked conger eel densely laid atop freshly steamed rice. Take a mouthful of the fatty eel and savor the soft, delicious meat as it seems to melt in your mouth. After having a few morsels as is, try changing the flavor using the provided condiments, such as green onion and wasabi.

The sophisticated way to order, as recommended by regular customers, is Ainose—a service offered by the restaurant that provides both a helping of plump, boiled conger eel and a savory grilled conger eel. With this option, you can taste and compare the difference between the two textures all within a single lunch box.

Edo super food that relieves tired eyes and dry skin

Edo super food that relieves tired eyes and dry skin

The conger eel caught in Tokyo Bay is a representative dish of old Edo that was loved by the common folk. Despite being an essential element of tempura and sushi, conger eel is difficult to work with and few specialty restaurants exist today.

Tamai seeks to carry on the traditions of Edo food culture and welcomes customers with a menu that is dedicated to conger eel. Every day, the wild conger eel that are stocked in large quantities are quickly prepared by experienced cooks while fresh, then carefully prepared in a special pot, before being topped with a secret sauce. Conger eel has a much lower fat content than other types of saltwater eel, and as an abundant source of vitamin A, it is also said to be effective for relieving eye fatigue and dry skin. Enjoy healthy conger eel and feel invigorated by this traditional dish.

  • Hours of operation: 11:00am - 9:00pm (L.O.20:15)
    *Meal product sales are 10:00-21:00
  • Mean budget: [noon] 1,000 yen [at night] 2,000 yen
  • The number of seats: 11
  • TEL: 03-6262-3125
  • WEB: Official site (external link)