A Tasty Journey Through Time: Our Visit to Sarashina Horii Honten in Tokyo

When we strolled into the charming neighborhood of Azabujyuban in Tokyo, we didn’t expect to step back in time. But that’s exactly what happened when we found ourselves at the doors of Sarashina Horii Honten, a historic soba restaurant that has been serving up traditional noodles since 1789.

Founded by a textile merchant named Nunoya Tahei, this place has seen more than two centuries whirl past its doors. It’s like a time capsule, preserving the legacy of Japan’s culinary history right in the hustle and bustle of modern Tokyo. The restaurant got a new name, Horii, back in 1876, and it’s stuck ever since. The family running the show has kept the tradition alive, serving the same top-notch Sarashina Soba that once fed Edo’s finest, including shoguns and feudal lords.

Walking into Sarashina Horii Honten, it felt like we were stepping into another era. The vibe is a cozy blend of the old and the new, making you feel welcome right away. It’s fascinating how they’ve managed to keep the charm of old Japan alive, especially in a city that’s always rushing forward.

Now, let’s talk about the soba! If you haven’t tried Sarashina Soba, you’re missing out. This isn’t your ordinary noodle dish. What sets it apart is the unique technique the Horii family uses to make their soba noodles so brilliantly white. Unlike the usual brown soba made from buckwheat husks, theirs are a stunning white, thanks to their special milling process. It’s not just about looks, though; these noodles have a delicate texture that’s hard to find anywhere else.

The menu at Sarashina Horii Honten caters to all kinds of soba lovers. If you like to keep things simple, the cold soba with a dipping sauce is a must-try. It starts at around 900 yen and is a perfect introduction to what makes this place special. For something a bit more hearty, we went for the kamo seiro – cold soba with a warm dipping sauce and grilled duck. Priced at 2,090 yen, it was worth every yen for the rich flavors and perfectly cooked duck.

They also have a great selection for warm soba fans. We tried the kamo nanban, which comes with tender slices of grilled duck, and the classic tempura soba, which is always a hit. The tempura was light and crispy, just the way it should be, and paired beautifully with the warm broth and noodles.

Sarashina Horii Honten is part of the “Toto Noren Kai,” a group of historic establishments that pride themselves on preserving their centuries-old traditions. Eating there, you really feel like you’re part of something bigger – a long-standing tradition of Japanese culinary excellence.

Every bite of soba at Sarashina Horii Honten is a taste of history. It’s not just a meal; it’s a journey through the flavors and stories of old Japan. If you find yourself in Tokyo, don’t miss out on this culinary adventure. It’s not just about filling your stomach; it’s about feeding your soul with the rich, uninterrupted legacy of one of Japan’s finest soba spots.

So, from us to you, make sure Sarashina Horii Honten is on your Tokyo to-do list. It’s more than just eating; it’s experiencing a piece of Japan’s heart and history. And who knows? Maybe you’ll feel the echo of centuries past with every slurp of soba just like we did.