Yabuchu

Positioned along the approach to Shibamata Taishakuten temple, Yabuchu draws passersby with a stone mill turning at the front window and craftsmen kneading and slicing handmade soba. The noodles are cut slightly thick, offering the firm bite and resilient chew prized in artisan buckwheat.

A favourite among visitors is the signature Sakura Set, a generous combination presenting cold handmade soba on a platter with crisp tempura, a fragrant grilled rice ball, konjac dengaku brushed with sweet-savoury miso sauce, side dishes, and dessert such as soba yokan. The tempura assortment features a large prawn alongside aubergine, green pepper, and sweet potato, with its hot, crunchy coating setting off the earthy aroma of the noodles. Offering small tastes of varied flavours, it makes for a satisfying midday repast while exploring the neighbourhood.

Those wishing to focus on soba itself can opt for ten seiro, which pairs a full serving of noodles with tempura, or kamo seiro, accompanied by warm dipping broth laden with duck meat. The Tora-san Set expands the Sakura Set by adding savoury grilled duck, inviting diners to spend a relaxed Tokyo shitamachi afternoon sipping drinks, sampling small plates, and finishing with fresh noodles.

In addition to Western-style tables, traditional tatami seating is available inside, allowing guests to dine at leisure amidst the nostalgic atmosphere of Shibamata.