Noodle spots may be all the rage, but few prepare such a memorable handmade version of the delicious soba as Chef Ryu Isobe. His brick-lined structure, marked by a bright yellow sign, certainly seems at odds with the ritzy locale, but rest easy as the interior design is chic to the core—imagine brick walls lined with gold-tinted patterns, an inviting open kitchen, and stocked bar.
The name is Japanese for "volcanic" and conveniently this soba-focused spot blows the lid off its competitors. The menu offers many a choice, including a vegetarian option, but the #7 (or lamb in lava) is a clear winner—set afloat with strands of hirauchi soba, Japanese spices, miso paste, and cilantro in chicken broth. Get slurping on this unique specialty and never look back.