Aburaya — Restaurant in Kanazawa

I may not be a soba aficionado, but I am (sadly and, admittedly, obsessively) a perfectionist when it comes to identifying dining textures that I like - and that can make or break the experience. (NOTE: for those who have ADHD or on the spectrum food sensitivity, the consistency of flavour quality and texture at this place is a bonus stimuli - you won’t be disappointed). The proprietor of this restaurant has the art of eating the bowl that he’s created down to a science. While in Kanazawa, we came two days in a row (for dinner and lunch, respectively) and tried the two different styles of soba on offer, with an onsen egg to accompany one bowl each day. Very efficient ticket ordering system, so bring cash! For noodle snobs, be aware that he uses packaged noodles (EDIT: we came back again and discovered that they are made by hand but have been placed in packages for perfecting portion control), but his technique of cooking and (suggesting) that you season them just so is legit. Honestly, in the compacted three days that we spent there, I could have happily eaten there more. Suggest to come closer to opening times, unless you are okay with potentially waiting…and if you do wait, it’s worth it. Unconventionally, he serves only water with the soba…so if you must have your beer or sake accompaniment with dinner, have a drink at the nearby “Bar Bouton” while you wait - non-alcoholic...

Found the restaurant easily by following the location pin on Google Maps. Upon arriving, you’ll see signs directing you to the nearby floor B1 where you’ll find this place.

The owner was very hospitable and makes excellent food. Despite me not knowing Japanese, the ordering process is quite simple by inserting cash into the machine and choosing which of the two main plates I wanted and choose any add-ons. I had food at my table within 5 minutes. I was the first customer at 5:30pm so I don’t know how waiting times differ when there is a higher volume of customers.

The taste was spectacular and adequate serving size for my appetite at a great fair price. I left very satisfied and would love to return to this location if I ever have the privilege of coming back to Kanazawa.

Before leaving, I attempted my best at expressing my delight with the food by telling the owner “美味しい” while giving him thumbs up. Hopefully that conveyed my positive experience in a non embarrassingly way.

If you’re in the area and in search of a quick but great bite, give this place a try! Tourists, bring at least a ¥1000 bill for every plate you plan on ordering since (as of May 17, 2024) it’s ¥800 or ¥900 for main dish before add ons.

If by any chance the owner sees this...

A Hidden Gem for Ramen Lovers: Abura Soba Heaven in Kanazawa

If you're a ramen lover in Kanazawa, there's a small, clean, and cozy abura soba ramen shop that you absolutely must visit. Tucked away in a quiet corner, this hidden gem boasts a single chef who takes on the role of both cook and server, ensuring a personal and memorable experience. he is an absolute delight. Friendly and lovely, he welcomes each customer with a warm smile and makes you feel right at home.

Abura soba is a brothless style of ramen where the noodles are tossed in a delectable sauce, resulting in a lighter yet incredibly satisfying bowl of noodles.

The serving size here is generous, ensuring that you'll leave with a satisfied belly. The menu offers options for both spice enthusiasts and those who prefer milder flavors, making it a family-friendly destination. Even the kids will find themselves in ramen heaven, as the chef expertly caters to their taste preferences.

As for the taste, it's nothing short of heavenly. The combination of perfectly cooked noodles and the chef's secret sauce creates a symphony of flavors that will leave your taste buds dancing with joy. Every mouthful is a delightful experience that takes you straight to...