Sobashubo Ichii

For noodle enthusiasts making a trip down to Kyoto, put Sobashubo Ichii on the map. Close to Kinkakuji Temple in Kyoto, this charming soba joint is built into a nondescript traditional Japanese house and becomes a breezy stop for Michelin-approved soba. Handmade buckwheat noodles and duck-based dishes make up the cornerstone of its menu. Soba is cut manually, boiled and piled high on a seiro (traditional Japanese woven basket), then served with the store’s famous dipping broth made from Kawachi duck. The breed is specifically selected for its sweet fat and flesh, and its meat is also used for other side dishes. Duck sashimi, consisting of heart, loin and liver, can feel a bit adventurous, while the grilled duck loin, cooked with a salt marinade and served with charred negi, is more familiar. Another standout dish is the “Kamo Nanban,” showcasing the duck’s versatility in a warm, comforting soba soup. Other classic soba companions, like tempura assortments, are available. Sobashubo Ichii is a Michelin Bib Gourmand restaurant in 2024.