Takashi H.
Yelp
Two things I learned after returning from Kyōto: I don't need to be in Japan to see Japanese giant salamanders or have authentic Nishin (mackerel) Soba.
If you're slinking along South King Street and craving authentic Japanese soba, I-NABA is the spot to leap into. With handmade noodles, tempura fried to crispy perfection, and a zen ambiance, this restaurant will have you coming out of winter hibernation for more.
The Soba:
I-NABA's handmade soba is the star of the show, served with a flavor so rich and delicate it could make a salamander slurp with satisfaction. Whether you go for the chilled zaru soba or the comforting hot kake soba, the noodles have that perfect chewy texture that screams authenticity. Pair them with their perfectly balanced dipping sauces or broths, and you've got a dish that will make your taste buds hop for joy.
Natto lovers, give the natto + yama imo topping a try on the kake (hot) soba. It's easier to eat than it sounds. The soup keeps the smell in so your party won't be drama and complain about the sticky strings from the natto.
The Nishin Soba hits the spot. This dish was the first thing I tried during my most recent stay in Kyōto, so it came with the nostalgia. Nishin Soba is a tough dish to replicate outside of Japan, but I-NABA has this figured out.
Ambiance:
Walking into I-NABA feels like entering a quiet pond, serene and calming. The minimalist decor is understated but inviting, and the warm service makes you feel like you've been welcomed into a gecko's carefully curated den. It's the perfect spot to enjoy a peaceful meal--no cold-blooded rush here.
Service:
The wait staff is bilingual and provides an atmosphere that reminds me of dining in soba restaurants in Japan. The staff is attentive and patient when explaining the menu. Thankfully, I-NABA allows walk-ins. I'm still triggered from restaurants in Japan frowning down upon walk-ins even during quite times.
Parking:
Ah, parking--the eternal lily pad hop of South King Street. The small lot fills up fast, so you might need to try your luck with street parking. It's a bit of a challenge, but once you're inside, the meal will make you forget all the scaly details of finding a spot. But seriously, the parking is quite tight, so carpooling is recommended.
Unique Features:
What sets I-NABA apart is their attention to craft and authentic Japanese flavors. It's my new favorite spot - better quality, lower prices, and less snobby than the aesthetically pleasing, but slightly off restaurant across the way in Ward.
Final Thoughts:
I-NABA isn't just a restaurant; it's a sanctuary for soba enthusiasts. Whether you're a local lizard or just passing through, this place offers a meal that's simple, elegant, and utterly satisfying. Come for the noodles, stay for the tempura, and leave with a smile as wide as a salamander spotting a sunny rock.
Hop on over and treat yourself--you'll be glad you did!