Akashiya

When you are in the mood for thick soba noodles with a satisfying, chewy bite, the inaka soba on the menu at Akashiya in Sarue stands out immediately. It is well suited to those who appreciate a firm texture and plenty of substance, sitting alongside an array of chilled seiro options like classic zaru and tempura zaru to match whatever you feel like having.

Those looking to warm up will find plenty of broth-based choices, including curry nanban backed by a fragrant Japanese dashi, duck kamo nanban prepared in a lighter Kansai style, and piping-hot hot pots such as nabeyaki udon or miso-simmered udon. With broth full of clean umami, these hot noodle bowls make for a comforting lunch on cooler days or a soothing meal at the end of the day.

For a genuinely filling lunch or dinner, the rice bowl sets are a dependable option, pairing noodles with donburi such as katsudon, tendon, or oyakodon. Combining a hearty rice bowl finished in a sweet-savoury sauce with a bowl of noodles, these generous sets are ideal when you want something substantial in short order.

The dining room maintains a calm, understated atmosphere where solo diners can settle in comfortably, perhaps enjoying a beer or another drink alongside a plate of tempura and soba. Payment is cash only, with no electronic payment methods accepted, so it is wise to have yen on hand before taking a seat.