#Japan #Tokyo #Tsukaji #Umeichi #Nira Tempura

A Culinary Adventure in Jimbocho: Umeichi's Nira Tempura Soba

In the charming district of Jimbocho, renowned for its bookstores, cafes, and diverse culinary offerings, comedian Tsukaji Takeshi from the popular duo Drunk Dragon, embarks on a delightful culinary excursion. At the age of 52, Tsukaji discovers his passion for soba, particularly at a relatively new establishment called Umeichi, which is quickly gaining a reputation for serving delicious nira tempura soba.

Umeichi, marked by its striking yellow and black sign, opened less than a year ago, driven by the determination of its owner, who switched careers to pursue his dream of running a stand-up soba shop after years of managing a company. Having spent two and a half years training and preparing, the owner brought his vision to life and aims to offer customers a unique experience where hot dishes are served piping hot, enhancing their flavor profile. Tsukaji is captivated by the cooking process, watching as the freshly fried nira tempura is artfully placed atop a bed of soba noodles right before his eyes.

As Tsukaji tastes the nira tempura soba, he can't help but express his amazement, noting, "The aroma is fantastic! The broth is well-balanced, neither too strong nor too weak—perfect for enhancing the noodles. The nira tempura is incredibly fragrant! The essence of garlic leaps out with every bite!" His enthusiasm is infectious, reflecting the appeal of Umeichi to the locals, who are increasingly becoming regular customers.

In a city like Tokyo, where the competition among eateries is fierce, Umeichi manages to stand out, thanks to the owner's dedication to quality and customer satisfaction. Tsukaji’s exploration of Jimbocho offers a glimpse into how this vibrant district continues to thrive as a culinary hotspot, merging tradition with innovation.

Stay tuned for a second location in the bustling Tokyo neighborhood of Honhashinuma, known for its late-night operating hours and delicious food that steams in the middle of the city. Tsukaji’s journey promises to uncover more culinary treasures in the heart of Tokyo, enhancing our appreciation for the simple yet satisfying experience of eating soba, served with a personal touch that makes each visit memorable.

Join Tsukaji Takeshi on his journey exploring Japan's standing soba shops in the upcoming episode airing on January 19, which dives deep into the stories and flavors behind each unique bowl of soba. Whether you are a local or a visitor, the adventures of Drunk Dragon’s Tsukaji will surely inspire you to embrace the heartwarming flavors of soba and the genuine hospitality of these beloved eateries in Japan.