2 Soba noodle shops to check out in Tokyo, Japan!

1) Hako Soba 箱根そば

Hako Soba 箱根そば, also known as Hakone Soba in Japanese, is a chain of soba noodle shops that you can find in or near stations along the Odakyu Line. This popular soba joint has expanded its reach to Tokyo, with branches in Akasaka, Akihabara, and Shinbashi. If you're a regular at budget-friendly soba restaurants, you'll be familiar with the automatic food ticket vending machine that you use to order at Hako Soba. The machine has the cheapest options, which are typically kake soba or kitsune soba, two of the most basic dishes. If you want to try something different, you can go for the soba and tempura combos, curry, or tempura donburi. There are also meal sets that pair a bowl of soba with rice.

During my visit, I opted for the Kitsune soba and added an onsen egg to it. The Kitsune soba is served in a flavorful dashi broth and topped with fried tofu that's been seasoned to perfection, wakame, and scallions. It's a comforting dish that's sure to fill you up. Trust me, you can't go wrong with this one! 

Locations and Address: https://www.odakyu-restaurant.jp/shop/hakonesoba/hakonesoba/

2) Fuji Soba 名代富士そば

Fuji Soba 名代富士そば is a chain of affordable soba and udon noodle shops scattered throughout Tokyo and the surrounding metro area. You can usually find these soba joints near train stations, and they serve healthy, wallet-friendly meals. A basic soba or udon dish, either hot in soup or cold with dipping sauce, will only set you back ¥300. If you're in the mood for tempura, a basic hot tempura udon or tempura soba will cost you ¥410 yen. They also have meal sets that come with mini katsudons (pork and egg over rice) or curry rice with noodles for just ¥720 yen. To order your meal, you simply use the ticket machine located outside the shop or just inside the door.

When I went, I ordered the soba with pork and an onsen egg. The soup was hearty but slightly salty, and the noodles were cooked to perfection. One thing that makes Fuji Soba stand out is that they're open 24/7, so it's the perfect spot to grab a late-night meal! 🍜

Locations and Address: https://fujisoba.co.jp/shop/