Teuchi Soba Akari

It’s easy to dismiss Dotonbori as a tourist trap, what with all the animatronic signboards and bustling crowds, but there’s some good food to be found here. One such spot is Teuchi Soba Akari.

Run by a charming elderly couple, this hidden soba joint feels insulated from the frenetic pace outside, despite its prime location on the main Dotonbori stretch. It’s also wonderfully homely, from the serene atmosphere and slightly retro interior to the rustic handcrafted ceramic tableware.

The menu is simple and straightforward; there’s even an English version, plus a thoughtful illustrated guide on how to eat soba. For hot options, you can have your buckwheat noodles topped with the classic kitsune fried tofu pocket, submerged in a duck and leek soup, or accompanied by a side of tempura.

To truly appreciate soba’s nutty texture, however, cold is the way to go. Zaru, or cold soba served with a side of soy sauce dip, is the standard option, and you can upgrade that with a tempura platter for a more substantial meal. We particularly recommend the kamo-jiru zaru with tempura set, as it’s a good sampler of the two most popular styles of soba. 

This satisfying meal pairs the restaurant’s firm, handmade soba with a small bowl of rich and flavourful duck broth for dipping, complete with duck slices, duck meatballs and leeks cooked until soft and sweet. The tempura on the side, featuring seasonal vegetables and shrimp, makes the perfect accompaniment to the hearty soup. 

Teuchi Soba Akari is an ideal spot for a relaxing meal when the Dotonbori crowd wears you out. Yet you won’t feel completely cut off from Dotonbori, as the restaurant’s rear window looks out at the iconic canal – something many affordable restaurants in the area can’t boast about.