Authentic soba noodles handmade daily in the East Village. Michelin Bib Gourmand recognized for its quality and value. A must-try for noodle lovers.
Nestled in the East Village, this Japanese eatery has carved out a niche for itself as a purveyor of exceptional soba noodles since its establishment in 1996. Garnering accolades such as a Michelin Bib Gourmand, it's a place that prioritizes authenticity and handcrafted quality. The soba noodles, made fresh daily by skilled artisans, are the star of the show, with the 100% buckwheat Juwari Soba being a standout, often served with fresh wasabi and premium Japanese water. Beyond their signature noodles, the menu boasts a selection of refined Japanese appetizers like Shrimp Shumai and Kamo Kuwayaki, alongside traditional desserts. Whether you're seeking a satisfying lunch special or a comforting bowl of hot or cold soba, this restaurant offers a taste of genuine Japanese culinary tradition.
This Japanese restaurant specializes in soba noodles, with many customers highlighting the freshness and quality of their handmade noodles, often prepared daily. The Juwari Soba, made with 100% buckwheat, is particularly recommended for its authentic taste and is served with fresh wasabi and imported Japanese water. Other praised dishes include the ikura-don (salmon roe over rice) and various lunch specials, which have been noted for good value. Appetizers like Steamed Homemade Shrimp Shumai, Kamo Kuwayaki (duck), and Agedashi Tofu are also well-received. While the soba is the main draw, the restaurant also offers traditional Japanese appetizers and desserts such as Green Tea Warabi Mochi and Green Tea Brûlée.
"The Juwari Soba (100% buckwheat noodles) is highly recommended for its authenticity. Customers also rave about the ikura-don and the lunch specials."
Customers generally have a very positive view of this restaurant, frequently recommending it for its authentic Japanese soba noodles. Many praise the quality and freshness of the noodles, with some noting they are made daily on-site. The restaurant is recognized for its Michelin Bib Gourmand status, indicating good quality and value. Specific dishes like the ikura-don and the Juwari Soba (100% buckwheat) are highlighted, as are lunch specials and bentos. While some consider it a good casual dining option, a few reviewers have noted it might not be the most exceptional culinary experience compared to other high-end soba establishments.
Important Note
One reviewer mentioned that while it's a decent place for casual dining, it might not offer the most exceptional culinary experience compared to other high-standard soba shops. The Juwari Soba, made with 100% buckwheat, is a rare delicacy with limited availability.
"This restaurant was recommended as a casual dining option in response to the original poster's request for casual eats in Greenwich Village and surrounding areas."
Positive"The commenter simply states 'Sobaya' as a straightforward recommendation for soba noodles."
Positive"The commenter shares a Google Maps link to Sobaya, implying a direct recommendation for the restaurant."
Positive"The commenter expresses love for Sobaya, stating that the food has never disappointed them despite the restaurant being relatively empty during their visits."
Positive"The commenter recommends Sobaya in the East Village, noting its recognition on the NYT top 100 list and its Michelin Bib Gourmand status."
Positive"The commenter lists Sobaya as one of the usually recommended soba-specific spots in NYC, emphasizing the need for such places over ramen shops."
Positive"The original poster responds to a comment about Sobaya, confirming that they are not looking for a 'culinary experience' but simply good noodles, indicating Sobaya fits their needs."
Positive"The commenter describes Sobaya as a decent place suitable for a casual dinner, though not an 'amazing culinary experience' compared to other high-standard soba shops they've tried."
Neutral"Sobaya is listed as a suggested restaurant."
Neutral"This commenter personally prefers Cocoron over Sobaya when it comes to cold soba dipping noodles."
Neutral"Sobaya is suggested as a restaurant that appears to offer cold soba, which immediately made the commenter want to try it."
Positive"Sobaya is recommended as a restaurant choice."
Positive"Sobaya in the East Village offers lunch sets that are available around the mentioned price point, making it a suitable option for lunch specials."
Neutral"Soba Ya is recommended by the commenter."
Neutral"The commenter fondly recalled loving the ikura-don at Sobaya from years ago. They also mentioned Sobaya used to offer a lunch special with soba and a donburi for under $20."
Positive"Recommends Sobaya for Japanese soba noodles, calling it a staple and always good. Mentions they have limited (20) really great bentos on Mondays."
Positive"Suggests Sobaya in the East Village as a cool place to try if unfamiliar with soba noodles."
Neutral"Sobaya in EV does a nice lunch set as well"
Positive