Nestled on the shores of the serene Kinrin Lake in Yufuin, 古式手打ちそば泉 (Koshite Uchi Soba Izumi) offers a unique culinary experience that goes beyond just a meal. This traditional soba restaurant combines the art of handmade soba with breathtaking natural beauty, creating an unforgettable dining destination.
Credit to 幕営専科の食い道楽
Upon arrival, the charm of 古式手打ちそば泉 is immediately noticeable. The traditional Japanese architecture blends seamlessly with the surrounding landscape, creating a sense of peace and tranquility. Stepping inside, the warm and inviting atmosphere welcomes guests to a space where time seems to stand still.
The true star of the show at 古式手打ちそば泉 is, of course, the soba itself. Here, tradition reigns supreme.
Credit to akii-san
Using time-honored techniques, the restaurant hand-mills its own buckwheat flour, resulting in a soba that is bursting with flavor and texture.
Whether you choose the signature "o-seiro" (cold soba) or a warm soba dish, each bite is a testament to the dedication and passion of the soba masters.
Credit to あん0862
Soba comes stacked in tiers. Ours came in two-s.
Soba is dipped in a delicious soy-sauce based broth.
The menu at 古式手打ちそば泉 features a variety of soba dishes, each showcasing the versatility of this humble grain. From classic "zaru soba" to creative combinations like "tenzaru soba" with tempura, there's something to tantalize every taste bud. Beyond just the soba, the restaurant offers a selection of traditional Japanese side dishes that perfectly complement the main course. Seasonal ingredients are used to create dishes that are not only delicious but also visually stunning.
We tried their Soba-gaki. Soba-gaki, also known as "buckwheat dumplings," is a traditional Japanese dish made from buckwheat flour and water. It's not like the typical soba noodles you might be familiar with, but rather a thick, gooey paste that has a unique texture and flavor. Soba-gaki is traditionally served in small individual bowls. It can be eaten plain, but it's often enjoyed with various dipping sauces like:
a) Sobayu: The flavorful broth used for soba noodles.
b) Shoyu: Japanese soy sauce mixed with wasabi.
c) Mentsuyu: A dipping sauce made with dashi, soy sauce, mirin, and sake.
Soba-gaki has a slightly nutty flavor due to the buckwheat flour. It's also naturally gluten-free and a good source of protein, fiber, and vitamins.
Credit to graphed18
What truly elevates the dining experience at 古式手打ちそば泉 is its location. The restaurant boasts breathtaking views of Kinrin Lake. Whether you choose to sit inside or on the outdoor terrace, you can enjoy the tranquil beauty of the lake while savoring your meal.
The serene atmosphere of the restaurant provides the perfect backdrop for a relaxing and enjoyable meal. It's a place to escape the hustle and bustle of daily life and immerse yourself in the beauty of nature and the art of Japanese cuisine.
Izumi
古式手打ちそば泉
大分県由布市湯布院町川上1599-1
11am-3pm on Weekdays
11am-5pm on Weekends
Tel: 0977-85-2283
Expect to queue on peak periods