If there ever is a lunch spot that came from a “happy accident”, I would say Azuma Soba fits that bill. While around Columbus Circle some years ago, I stumbled upon this spot while searching for another Japanese restaurant near Columbus Circle, and it turned out to be a hidden gem. It’s affordable, never too crowded, even on a weekend, and the food comes out hot and fast.
What We Ordered:
Cold Soba Noodles
Soba is a light and satisfying noodle, made from buckwheat that actually is served well cold. At Azuma Soba, the soba is cooked perfectly, before being quickly chilled in ice water. The noodles are paired with a soy-based dipping sauce made from soy sauce, dashi, and mirin. It’s refreshing, cooling, and a great noodle dish on a summer day.
Oyakodon (Chicken and Egg Bowl)
Oyakodon translates to “the child and the parent,” a fitting name for this dish where a chicken and an egg are simmered together in a savory dashi-based sauce and served over steaming rice.
Why You Should go to Azuma Soba
Azuma Soba is the epitome of a “hole in the wall” hidden gem. The food is simple, feels homemade, and for being close to NYC’s Columbus Circle, it’s surprising affordable, rarely packed, and super cozy. And yes, they have bidets in the restrooms, which was a first for me to see.
If you’re looking for the simple joy of cold soba dipped in a sauce, keep this spot in mind for your next lunch break.
