Nara, Japan｜Takamaya

We ordered both variants of the soba - the cold (Zarusoba) and the hot (Kakesoba), as well as the Omakase Tempura set, the sliced duck roast, and the grilled vegetables. The duck was fairly small portion-size wise, but delicious. The tempura was fresh and crispy, very nice. It should be noted that the cold soba portion is a fair bit larger than the hot soba, so keep that in mind if you are between either. Both are reasonable meal sizes though. The tempura quantity was excellent for sharing. The staff was very friendly and they have an English menu available, which I have posted as well.

To start off, located in an alley which made the place a little much more mysterious. As we entered, it gave a real authentic Japanese vibe to the place. Food had an English menu, we bought the Soba Set and the Wapparice Set. Personally the Wapparice set was kinda disappointing with the limited variety but the Soba Set was amazing! It had the Saba Fish, Tofu and even Tuna Sashimi. Each of the dishes were delicious and one of the better meals I have eaten for this price point. Staff was very nice and dedicated to explain to us the Kakesoba and the Zarusoba difference. Overall great experience!

There is a ¥300 dinner surcharge for each person. You also get 2 mini appetizers for dinner. A very well-balanced and flavorful meal. However, soba noodles are not made fresh (imported from Hokkaido, I believe the menu said). Tsukune (chicken meatball) was really good. Pretty decent food, though I found the broth to be a tad salty. Did not try the duck soba that people raved about. Rice bowl set prices are in the ¥2000 range per person, but it included a rice bowl and soba noodles. Super fulfilling and more than enough food.