Skip to main content

The Soba Lover's Guide to a Perfect Meal



 Key Points to Look for When Choosing a Delicious Soba Restaurant

When searching for a delicious soba restaurant, you should pay attention to the following points:


Handmade Soba (Teuchi Soba): Soba noodles that are handmade by a craftsman, not a machine, have a strong aroma and an exceptional texture and smooth finish.


Type of Soba: The taste and flavor vary depending on the ratio of buckwheat flour (e.g., Juwari Soba which is 100% buckwheat, Ni-hachi Soba which is 80%) and the region of origin. It can be fun to try and compare different kinds.


Tsuyu (Soba Dipping Sauce): A well-balanced tsuyu with a rich dashi from katsuobushi (bonito flakes) and kombu (kelp) is crucial for highlighting the soba's flavor.


Tempura: Freshly fried, crispy tempura is a classic pairing to enjoy with soba.


Recommended Soba Restaurants (Mainly in Tokyo)

1. Kanda Matsuya

This is a historic and long-standing restaurant that has been in operation since the Meiji period. You can watch the craftsmen skillfully making soba and enjoy a traditional, elegant atmosphere. In addition to their classic "mori soba" (cold soba), their hot soba is also popular.


2. Tamawarai

A famous handmade soba restaurant that has been featured in the Michelin Guide. Their soba, made with carefully selected buckwheat flour, is known for its rich aroma and firm texture. Reservations are difficult to get, but it's well worth visiting at least once.


3. Benten Soba-dokoro (in front of Kaminarimon in Asakusa)

Located in the tourist district of Asakusa, this restaurant is famous for not only its soba but also its "Tendon" (tempura rice bowl) topped with a massive shrimp tempura. It's recommended for those who want to enjoy both soba and tempura.


4. Honmura An

At this restaurant, you can savor their special handmade soba in a sophisticated atmosphere. They also have a wide variety of "sobamae" dishes, which are appetizers enjoyed with sake before the soba.

Popular posts from this blog

Top Sightseeing Spots in Asakusa

Asakusa: Offers a glimpse into "old Tokyo" with Senso-ji Temple, Nakamise-dori shopping street, and traditional crafts. You can also take a boat ride on the Sumida River with views of Tokyo Skytree. Top Sightseeing Spots in Asakusa Kaminarimon, the main gate of Senso-ji Temple in Taito-ku, Tokyo, is officially named "Fujin Raijin Mon" (Wind and Thunder God Gate). It is a highly famous spot and a symbol of Asakusa, attracting many tourists from both within Japan and abroad. History and Features of Kaminarimon Establishment and Reconstruction: The gate is believed to have been built during the Heian period, but the current structure was reconstructed in 1960. Konosuke Matsushita, the founder of Panasonic, donated it as an act of gratitude for his recovery from an illness. Statues of Fujin and Raijin: On either side of the gate are statues of Fujin, the god of wind (on the right when facing the gate), and Raijin, the god of thunder (on the left). These statues are the ...
Read more

The Key to Your Tokyo Trip: A Guide to Affordable & Popular Hotels

  Here are a few recommended business hotels near Shinjuku. Japan House Ikebukuro : about 12,000 JPY per night Hop Inn Tokyo Iidabashi : about 13,000 JPY per night https://www.hopinnhotel.com/ja/our-hotels/hop-inn-tokyo-iidabashi Vessel Inn Takadanobaba Ekimae : about 15,000 JPY per night https://www.vessel-hotel.jp/inn/takadanobaba/ SHORTsuido : about 15,000 JPY per night BuRan House : about 15,000 JPY per night Train companies in Tokyo are known for their extensive networks and often operate a variety of businesses, including hotels, often located at or near major stations. Here are some famous business hotels and hotel brands in Tokyo that are operated by train companies: JR East (East Japan Railway Company) The Tokyo Station Hotel: A classic and luxurious hotel located directly within the historic Tokyo Station building. It offers a unique and elegant experience. Hotel Metropolitan: A brand of city hotels often found near major JR stations. The Hotel Metropolitan Toky...
Read more

Recommended Luxury Hotels in Tokyo

  Recommended Luxury Hotels in Tokyo Here are some of the top luxury hotels in Tokyo. Imperial Hotel, Tokyo Features : With over 130 years of history, it's a flagship hotel of Japan. Its charm lies in its service, which values tradition and formality, and its proximity to the Imperial Palace. Area : Hibiya/Ginza Aman Tokyo Features : Located on the top floors of a high-rise building in Otemachi, this hotel is known for its sophisticated space that incorporates Japanese elements. Its tranquil atmosphere, which allows you to forget the hustle and bustle of the city, is very popular. Area : Otemachi The Ritz-Carlton, Tokyo Features : Situated in a skyscraper in Roppongi, the hotel's rooms offer dynamic views of Tokyo's skyline. You can have a truly special experience thanks to its meticulous service and luxurious facilities. Area : Roppongi Palace Hotel Tokyo Features : Located right in front of the Imperial Palace Outer Garden, this beautiful hotel is surrounded by water and ...
Read more