"Obon Shokudo in the inner Southeast even charms meat-eaters thanks to an idiosyncratic Japanese vegan menu that’s comfort food at its finest. If you didn’t know any better, you might think the homestyle tidbits, soups, and curries offered at this restaurant, with butter-yellow walls and rustic wood tables, are the most hippie-ish Japanese food ever. Sprouted brown rice is the default grain, lentil-and-barley miso is made in-house, yet nothing tastes like dated health food. Look to specials for seasonal options like matsutake tempura and onigiri incorporating creamy tofu, persimmons, and hazelnuts. We especially like the comforting udon soups made with shiitake dashi, organic brown rice noodles, and fried beancurd from Ota Tofu, a local legend that’s been at it for more than 110 years." - Krista Garcia
