Tokyo Aburagumi Sohonten Shibuya — Restaurant in Tokyo

Was introduced to Abura Soba, a mazesoba (dry noodles) chain back when I returned from Tokyo during the pandemic. We came here back then and have then eaten at locations throughout Tokyo.

It was really good to come back to where it all started. Service was fast and staff were as friendly as ever. There was a line as we came just as lunch started.

Prices are reasonable, but really the noodles and various condiments just take this dish to a whole other level. Savoury and filling but you don't feel as heavy as you sometimes do after a ramen dish.

We typically get a regular or dai (big) bowl plus an A or B extra.

Highly recommend this chain if you've never had mazesoba before. If you have, you probably know about this place already.

Don't forget to add some vinegar and their in-house chili oil before you mix up...

Probably obvious to locals, but this ‘soba’ shop is actually dry ramen. No broth at all, instead it’s coated with spices and oil, and it’s absolutely delicious. They do one thing and they do it really well.

There’s a vending machine (that even takes IC) out front, which is pretty easy to figure out. There’s more buttons than necessary - it’s just spicy or not spicy, and then you either want it regular, or with additional toppings (A and B options). Regular is plenty delicious but I think frequent diners change up the toppings for variety. Hilariously they offer larger sizes without charging more, making me feel like I need to get the XL.

There’s usually a short line outside due to the very few counter-only seating options (fits maybe 10 people). I see lines at night about 4-5 people deep, but it’s definitely...

Tokyo Abura Soba Shibuya branch

We originally were around the area to see if we can catch the last table at Gyukatsu Motomura, only for them to be closed earlier due to selling out. Thankfully just off the corner is this Soba shop!

We chose the regular and the spicy. Warning, it does have a bit of a kick, definitely can develop a sweat when taking the spicy one. It has a bit of a yuzu taste as well.

We were not disappointed given you get a more than decent soba noodle for less than $10!

Overall Kel rating: ★★★★/5 The good: Even if there is a line up, it moves quick. Cheap meal. The decent: There is an English menu available! The ugly: Depending on the line up, it...