Tamawarai

Long wait, average around 2-3 hours even if you show up before opening. Most items will sell out by then if you are not the absolute first to get in (mind you there are 6 people hidden inside the little waiting room on the side). Soba was good, nice if you are a regular or have a reservation and get seated immediately but absolutely not worth the wait nor horrible reception. To each their own, read the other reviews and try at your own risk (and if you have a ton of time to waste)

I was literally kicked out of this restaurant when I tried to put my name on the waiting list. I was just waiting on the hall doing nothing, saying nothing just trying to make eye contact with any staff. As soon as the female staff member saw me, all I heard was, ‘Go outside.’ I’ve never been treated so awfully anywhere else. Who would’ve expected this in JAPAN? This place is a disgrace to Japanese culture. I’ve seen many reviews stating that this place is known for being ‘anti-Korean. I get that reviews. It felt like she had a hateful attitude.

We were truly fortunate to snag three spots at the limited seating by showing up just before opening and politely inquiring about availability. Food tells a story, and Tamawarai excels at immersing its guests in the narrative of its soba. The austere setting focuses one’s attention on each dish as the set menu is unveiled at careful intervals that promote an appreciation for the craftsmanship at play and that build anticipation as the meal goes on. Ingredients and skill are the stars here, not flashy presentation nor fanciful technique. The sobagaki highlights the buckwheat perfectly, but the soba, of course, is the climax, revelatory in its simple and traditional presentation that attentive staff helpfully explain to the uninitiated. Relish in the time you spend at Tamawarai: as with any good story, one doesn’t want this meal to end; however, unlike a good read, most of us won’t be able to return to this one whenever we long for it.