Our fortuitous encounter with this hidden gem turned a challenging dinner quest into a delightful culinary adventure. Nestled discreetly, the restaurant proved to be a haven for those seeking not just a meal but an experience.
The English-speaking staff and thoughtfully provided English menu eased our ordering process, eliminating any language barriers. The menu, primarily centered around soba, offers a diverse array of set meals. Opting for the 中華ざる天ぷら定食 was a journey through flavors, featuring soba with a cold dipping soy sauce, flavored rice, 6 pieces of delectable tempura, cold original tofu in soy sauce topped with ginger paste and chopped green onion, a bowl brimming with cooked bamboo shoots, carrot, egg roll, chili, and fish cake, and a small plate of pickles. Each element tastefully maintained the original flavors of its ingredients, creating a symphony of satisfying tastes.
The drink selection, ranging from sake and wine to whiskey, juice, and soft drinks, added a delightful touch to the culinary experience. The restaurant's calm ambiance provided a serene backdrop, yet it was pleasantly surprising to see young patrons relishing good company, engaged in lively conversations and enjoying drinks.
The option for traditional Japanese seating and the availability of manga books for perusal while awaiting your meal contribute to the overall charm of the place.
In conclusion, our overall experience was nothing short of exceptional. I highly recommend this restaurant to anyone seeking a memorable dining experience, particularly those intrigued by the world of soba set meals. From the diverse menu to the tranquil ambiance and cultural touches, it's a culinary journey that deserves...
Read moreA fantastic no-frills teishoku spot I found after roaming around Kyoto at 9 pm and finding nothing to eat. I got lucky because they put up a sign outside saying 'No seats available' just as I was getting comfortable.
The menu is simple and short so your work is cut out. I got the plate with everything on it - braised tofu, tempura, soba noodles. It all came in nicely arranged with the accompaniments that usually come with teishoku - grated radish, fermented veggies and this large jug of excellent cold tea. I was expecting small sizes since it was not priced high at all, but I hadn't yet been introduced to the delights of such affordable, nutritious and simply delicious syokudo and teishoku restaurants. There was like twice the amount I thought I needed, but it was so good that I had to eat it all.
I also have to thank them for introducing me to the green bottled shichimi - sansho japanese pepper, which is similar to the szechuan peppercorn and packs a nice fun kick. It went nicely on the tofu and soba.
Large manga collection on the shelfs too, and a nice ambience. I was also relieved that they accept card...
Read moreStill stuck halfway on Japan time and halfway on Seattle time during my trip I was walking around looking for dinner a little early. A lot of the places in this neighborhood close after lunch and then reopen for dinner, and many of them were just getting up and running again or were yet to open.
I stumbled on this place on my walk back after having nearly given up, and it ended up being one of the highlights of my trip so far.
I had seen what I wanted outside on the sign so I did have an idea going in, but was warmly greeted and offered an English menu when I came inside which, had I not known what I wanted, was a delightful welcome as some of the other places in the area did not feel as warm.
The food was phenomenal. The price was amazing. The tea was great. I honestly can't believe how good this place was for the price. I went with the set menu Japanese omelette to expand my horizons to new Japanese foods, and it did not disappoint. I left full, satisfied, and very happy. Will...
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