Sohonke Nishin-Soba Matsuba

se_0.0

Matsuba, the origin of herring soba, has been boasting a tradition of over 150 years since its opening in 1861. Herring soba, or Nishin Soba in Japanese, was popular in Kyoto towards the end of the Edo period, and Matsuba claims to be its originator. The store, visible immediately upon exiting the 6th gate of Gion-Shijo station, comprises a basement level and two above-ground floors. The first floor sells herring noodles and dried herring in a stall format, while the basement and second floors serve as dining spaces. I descended to the basement to dine. Although there are many other menu items, the main dish, herring soba, is priced at 1300 yen, and the set meal shown in the photo, which comes with rice, costs 1925 yen. Upon being seated, warm green tea and a wet towel are first provided. Then comes the herring soba, with the herring hidden beneath the noodles. Tasting the herring unveils a sweetness infused into the fish's flesh. Initially, the broth may taste somewhat bland, but as the seasoning blends into it, the flavor deepens over time, becoming more delicious. The herring over rice, featuring crushed herring atop white rice, might seem simple but was truly delicious. The herring in this dish isn't raw but dried and sweetly steamed after removing the head and tail. If one doesn't mind herring, this place is highly recommended. I'd likely visit again if I have the chance to go to Gion.