Kerma Market — Review by Eating With Tod
Aaka, Japan — Japanese, Seafood
A visit to Kerma Market, one of Japan's underrated markets, where the reviewer sampled multiple dishes for £200 including exceptional tuna, king crab, and Grade A5 wagyu. Most items were outstanding with incredible flavors and quality, though some items like the clams and baby octopuses were challenging to enjoy.
What was great: Grandma's soy glazed eel with crispy skin, Teiji fish market tuna with sweet fat, 40 lb sea urchin, king crab legs with soft meat, Grade A5 wagyu that melts in mouth, seafood cracker, Japanese strawberry and melon juice
What could improve: Charcoal-cooked clams were hard, rough and chewy; baby octopuses stuffed with egg were too chewy
The Dishes
The market experience began with Grandma's soy glazed eel, a standout dish cooked to order over charcoal. The eel was warm, fatty, and smoky with a crispy exterior that added perfect textural contrast. At the famous Teiji fish market tuna stall, the reviewer indulged in fresh tuna that was butchered to order right before their eyes. The fat was remarkably sweet, and when paired with wasabi, it created an almost transcendent sensory experience that the reviewer called without question the best tuna they've ever tasted.
The charcoal-cooked clams presented an intimidating challenge, appearing unusual and tough to work through. They proved difficult and chewy, requiring significant effort to consume. In contrast, the 40 lb sea urchin delivered a luxurious experience, with a custard-like texture and delicious seafood flavor that impressed greatly. Baby octopuses stuffed with eggs in the head sounded appealing conceptually but turned out overly chewy and disappointing.
The king crab legs at approximately £25 per leg were simply grilled on a barbecue, requiring no sauce despite initial concerns. The crab meat was beautifully soft and warm, making them a must-try item at the market. Grade A5 wagyu skewers at £15 each provided an incredible melting sensation in the mouth with rich umami notes from the soy glaze. To finish, the famous seafood cracker offered a super crackly texture with subtle seafood hints, though it required water to consume comfortably. A Japanese strawberry and melon juice provided a refreshing conclusion to the tasting experience.
The Experience
Kerma Market is presented as one of Japan's most underrated markets, offering a dynamic and interactive food experience. Items are prepared fresh to order, with vendors like the tuna butchers working directly in front of customers. The market atmosphere showcases authentic Japanese food culture with passionate vendors, including Grandma and her charcoal eel service, creating memorable personal connections during the dining experience.
Value and Pricing
The entire experience cost £200 for substantial sampling across multiple vendors and dishes. King crab legs cost around £25 per leg, while Grade A5 wagyu skewers were £15 each. The pricing reflects premium ingredients and fresh preparation, offering excellent value for the quality and quantity of food sampled throughout the market visit.
Notable Moments
Without a doubt the best piece of tuna I've ever put in my mouth. The fat was almost sweet and when you add that wasabi, your tongue will get goosebumps.
If you finish it without a cup of water, you deserve a medal.
These quotes highlight the extreme freshness and intensity of flavors found at the market's various stalls.
The Verdict
Kerma Market is highly recommended for adventurous food enthusiasts seeking authentic Japanese cuisine and premium ingredients prepared fresh to order. While some items like the clams and baby octopuses may challenge certain palates, the exceptional quality of the tuna, wagyu, and king crab makes it a worthwhile destination. This market is best for travelers and food lovers willing to invest in premium Japanese seafood and grilled specialties.