TLDR
A go-to spot for homemade buckwheat soba noodles and soul-warming stamina broth. Beloved for casual, cozy comfort food in a relaxed setting.
Instagram Posts References
Cocoron is a restaurant located in the Lower East Side, specializing in stamina broth and comfort dishes. The image showcases a steaming bowl of broth with meat and scallions, alongside a separate dish of soba noodles. The caption describes it as a 'soul-warming stamina broth and a go-to comfort dish,' suggesting a hearty and satisfying meal that is a favorite for diners.
Details
Known for its specialized, homemade buckwheat soba noodles, this spot is a go-to destination for comforting Japanese cuisine in a casual setting [11], [16]. The signature 'mera-mera' bowl—a spicy sesame and chicken broth—is a standout favorite, alongside various cold dipping soba options [1], [12], [16]. While many diners laud the food as soul-warming and high-quality, it is noted as a casual, cash-only establishment, leading some to suggest it is better suited as a relaxed backup plan than a formal date night spot [12], [14], [15].
Food Overview
This restaurant specializes in Japanese soba, offering both hot soup-based dishes and cold dipping noodles [1], [16]. The 'mera-mera'—featuring a spicy sesame and chicken base—is frequently highlighted as a must-try, with a highly-regarded vegan version also available [1], [5], [16]. Other recommended items include the stamina broth, miso cabbage, and spicy cod roe mochi spring rolls [17], [18].
The 'Mera Mera' dip soba, stamina broth, miso cabbage, and spicy cod roe mochi spring rolls are frequently cited as standout items [12], [16], [17], [18].
Patrons generally view the restaurant as a reliable, high-quality destination for authentic soba and comfort food [11], [18]. While the food is widely praised, some diners have expressed reservations due to recurring health rating concerns and the restaurant's very casual, cash-only nature [6], [15].
Most Mentioned Dishes
- 01mera mera dip soba5 mentions
- 02mera mera soba2 mentions
Caveats
The restaurant is noted as a casual, cash-only establishment, which may not suit those looking for a formal dining atmosphere [12], [15]. Additionally, some past patrons have expressed hesitation due to previous health rating issues [6].
Reddit Opinions & Reviews
Top Reddit Posts About COCORON
Recent Reddit Mentions
From post: Where Are We Going For Japanese Curry Today
"The restaurant is mentioned as a recommendation for Japanese food."
NeutralFrom post: Looking For Recommendations For A Four Day
"A go-to spot for the commenter."
PositiveFrom post: Looking For Restaurants Under 100 In Manhattan
"Recommended as being similar to the user's previously liked list."
PositiveFrom post: Whats The Best Gingerforward Food Or Drink Youve
"Recommends Cocoron, a soba spot near Delancy and Chrystie, where fresh ginger can be added to dishes. The 'Mera Mera' warm soup is highlighted as amazing."
PositiveFrom post: Lower East Side Dinner Before Attaboy
"This user further elaborates on why Cocoron is not a good fit, stating it's a casual, cash-only spot and that better Japanese options exist on the LES that better match the OP's request for vibe and cuisine."
Negative