01 / ABOUT THE PLACE
About this place
A gentle aroma of dried sardines rises from the bowl as soon as it is set down, whetting the appetite. Naruto, in Sakaecho, Kawaguchi, serves Chinese-style soba in a soy-based broth layered with dried-sardine stock. The balance is a highlight: the flavours are clean, with little muddiness and a light finish. The owner prepares the bowl to be enjoyed as it is, so it is worth tasting the piping-hot broth before adding pepper or other seasonings.
Straight, thin noodles slip down easily and bring the dried-sardine flavour into focus. The toppings are carefully considered, too: there is Naruto fish cake, smoked chashu pork with an aromatic edge, and the “Ultimate Ajitama”, a seasoned egg with a softly set yolk. Each complements the bowl without disrupting its balance.
Rice dishes, including aromatic limited-time chicken-fat rice and green onion rice, make a satisfying accompaniment to the noodles. For a heartier meal, tsukemen and abura soba are also available, with portions ranging from regular to extra-large and extra-hearty. The quiet dining room has counter and table seating, making it a comfortable place to eat alone. Payment is cash only, so it is reassuring to bring banknotes or coins.
