Hyperlocal Tokyo

Upon entering, I was seated at a four-person table, diagonally across from another diner. Expecting the food to come out quickly, I ordered the 'Makunai Don' (a negitoro donburi) and a plate of soba noodles for 1,000 yen. There seemed to be a mistake, as my order hadn't gone through and I had to wait a bit. The soba noodles were firm and nicely absorbed the flavorful broth, which I found quite delicious. However, the noodles were served on a plate, and towards the end, they became a bit watery, which wasn't ideal. The negitoro in the Makunai Don was also enjoyable at first, but it became monotonous and I grew tired of it. This is a matter of personal preference, but I think the fact that the rice wasn't vinegared also contributed to this feeling.

I visited for lunch. I arrived a little after 11:30, and there were already a few people waiting outside. However, the restaurant is spacious and has a fast turnover, so I was able to get a seat within 5 to 10 minutes. I ordered the soba noodle and special donburi set. The special donburi of the day was beef tendon donburi. Although it's called a special donburi, it was quite filling, meaty, and had plenty of vegetables, making it very delicious. The soba noodles were, of course, excellent. I can see why this place is so popular. The restaurant was quite crowded with nearby office workers, but it was spacious, clean, and I was able to relax without feeling rushed. I'd like to try other soba dishes in the future.

A soba and sake restaurant in Nihonbashi. This was my first visit, and every dish was top-notch, with a wide selection of sake to enjoy. The restaurant's signature three-color soba was particularly outstanding. Each dish was meticulously prepared, with firm noodles, making it the perfect way to end a night of drinking. The tempura and sashimi were also fresh and delicious.

The lunch is affordable and comes in generous portions. The dipping sauce is quite salty. The service is curt and not very good. I was surprised when the order slip was placed on the table with the back of the hand. Even though there are often many people waiting for lunch, the turnover is fast. The food is served quickly, and you are rushed to leave as soon as you finish eating. Since I was waiting, I wish I could have sat and enjoyed my meal for at least 15 minutes. The lunch set, "Makai Donburi," is said to be increasing in price from October 2024.