Hisago

eenomsiki

During my first trip to Kyoto 6 years ago, exploration was mostly unplanned, and meals were had 'as seen along the way'. Hisago, a soba noodle shop with a 90-year tradition, stood out as the only place open in the early evening around Kiyomizu-dera. Without knowing what they sold, I stumbled upon oyakodon here, a dish that made a significant impact with its tender chicken thigh meat, softly set eggs, and the umami of tsuyu sauce. Returning 6 years later, Hisago, remembered as the tastiest spot from my first Kyoto journey, was the first to be added to my itinerary. Despite its fame, Hisago originally started as a soba shop, boasting high-quality noodles made with Uji matcha. The tsuyu, despite being flavor-rich, feels surprisingly light, proving hard to surpass even after trying oyakodon in other places. The line of locals outside Hisago still serves as my reason for recommending this spot.