Soba Totto

- 211 E 43rd St, New York, NY 10017

Located in the vibrant heart of Midtown, Soba Totto stands as a premier destination for authentic Japanese cuisine in New York City. This renowned spot is not just another Japanese restaurant; it's a celebrated soba noodle shop and an izakaya, a traditional Japanese pub, all in one. As the name suggests, the star of the show is the soba, with noodles handcrafted in the Kyoto-style, offering a level of freshness and authenticity that is hard to find elsewhere. Soba Totto has rightfully earned its reputation, even being approved by the Michelin Guide, a testament to its high-quality food and meticulous attention to detail. The atmosphere inside is a perfect blend of cozy and trendy, providing a tranquil and welcoming escape from the city's relentless pace. Whether you are a local seeking a quick, high-quality lunch or a tourist looking for an authentic Japanese dining experience, Soba Totto promises a memorable and satisfying meal. Its diverse menu goes far beyond just noodles, offering a wide array of yakitori, donburi, and small plates, making it a perfect spot for any occasion, from solo dining to a group get-together.

The culinary philosophy at Soba Totto revolves around simplicity and tradition. The freshly made soba noodles, whether served hot in a fragrant dashi broth or cold with a flavorful dipping sauce, highlight the unique, earthy taste of the buckwheat. But the experience doesn't end with soba. The restaurant also shines as an izakaya, offering an impressive selection of yakitori, grilled skewers that are a staple of Japanese pub culture. The combination of these two specialties, along with a variety of other Japanese classics like sashimi, donburi, and tempura, ensures that every visit is a new and exciting exploration of flavor. Soba Totto's commitment to excellence is evident in every aspect of its operation, from the high-level of service to the detailed preparation of each dish. The restaurant is popular for its fast service and is a perfect choice for those seeking a quiet, relaxing place to enjoy a delicious and authentic Japanese meal. It's a place that truly feels and tastes like a piece of Japan, right here in the middle of New York.

Soba Totto is ideally situated at 211 E 43rd St, New York, NY 10017, USA, placing it in a prime location in Midtown East. Its proximity to Grand Central Terminal makes it a convenient stop for commuters and travelers, whether they are arriving or departing. The restaurant is easily accessible by various public transportation options, including multiple subway lines and bus routes that serve the area. This makes it a stress-free destination, allowing patrons to focus on their dining experience rather than the logistics of getting there. While Midtown can be busy, the restaurant offers a peaceful haven inside.

The restaurant has also made a strong commitment to accessibility. It features a wheelchair-accessible entrance, ensuring that all guests can enter the space comfortably. Inside, the design includes wheelchair-accessible seating, providing a comfortable dining experience for patrons with mobility needs. The establishment's friendly and welcoming atmosphere, combined with its central location, makes it a popular choice for a diverse crowd, including tourists, families, and locals. The address on East 43rd Street is well-known and easy to find, which is a great advantage in a city with so many hidden gems. Soba Totto's thoughtful approach to accessibility and its convenient location solidify its status as a top-tier dining spot in the area.

• Dine-in: Soba Totto provides an excellent on-site dining experience with comfortable seating, including counter service and table service. Guests can enjoy a meal in the trendy yet cozy atmosphere, perfect for both solo diners and groups. Reservations are accepted and recommended, especially for lunch and dinner, as the restaurant can get busy and sometimes has a wait.

• Curbside pickup: For those on a tight schedule, the restaurant offers a convenient curbside pickup service. This allows you to order ahead and grab your food quickly without having to go inside, making it an efficient option for a busy workday lunch or a quick dinner on the way home.

• Delivery: Soba Totto's delicious menu is also available for delivery. You can enjoy their authentic soba noodles, yakitori, and other Japanese specialties from the comfort of your own home or office. This service provides a great way to experience their cuisine without a trip to the restaurant.

• Takeout: The takeout option is perfect for grabbing a meal to enjoy elsewhere. Whether you're heading to a nearby park or back to your hotel, the food is prepared with care to ensure it travels well and tastes just as good as it does in the restaurant.

• Catering: While details are not explicitly listed, the variety of small plates, skewers, and soba options make Soba Totto an excellent choice for catering small or large events. Guests should contact the restaurant directly to discuss catering for their next gathering or corporate event.

• Handmade Soba Noodles: The most significant highlight of Soba Totto is its dedication to crafting authentic, handmade soba noodles. These Kyoto-style noodles are the centerpiece of the menu and are praised for their distinct texture and flavor. This commitment to traditional craftsmanship sets the restaurant apart and provides a truly authentic Japanese culinary experience.

• Diverse and Authentic Menu: Beyond the soba, the menu is extensive and full of authentic Japanese offerings. The yakitori selection is a major highlight, with a variety of grilled skewers like Tsukune and Momo. The restaurant also offers an array of donburi (rice bowls), tempura, and a wide selection of small plates known as otsumami, making it a true izakaya experience. This variety ensures there’s something for everyone, from traditionalists to those looking to try something new.

• Great Drink Selection: Soba Totto offers a fantastic selection of beverages, including a great beer list and a variety of cocktails. This is complemented by a great tea selection, which is perfect for pairing with the delicate flavors of the soba and other dishes. The bar onsite also offers a range of hard liquors and wine, making it a great spot for a drink as well as a meal.

• Cozy and Trendy Atmosphere: The atmosphere is a key feature that contributes to the overall dining experience. It's described as both casual and cozy, creating a relaxing and intimate environment. The warm and inviting decor, combined with the friendly crowd that includes families and groups, makes it an enjoyable place to linger and socialize. The restaurant is also noted for being LGBTQ+ friendly and a transgender safe space, further adding to its welcoming and inclusive vibe.

• Michelin Guide Approved: Being a Michelin Guide-approved restaurant is a significant highlight. This distinction serves as an official nod to the restaurant's quality, consistency, and culinary excellence, giving diners confidence that they are experiencing a top-tier Japanese meal. It's a great choice for those who appreciate fine dining and authentic cuisine.

For reservations or to learn more about Soba Totto, you can use the following contact information:

Address: 211 E 43rd St, New York, NY 10017, USA

Phone: (212) 377-8947

Since the restaurant can be popular, especially during peak hours, it is a good idea to call ahead and make a reservation to avoid a wait.

For New Yorkers and visitors alike, Soba Totto is a standout choice for several compelling reasons. The primary draw is, of course, the authentic handmade soba noodles, a delicacy that is rare to find in such a high-quality, traditional form outside of Japan. Whether you prefer your soba hot or cold, with a variety of toppings from tempura to spicy daikon, the experience is truly unique and satisfying. The authenticity of the food is a major reason why many customers note that it "feels and tastes exactly like the food I ate in Japan." This is a significant endorsement for anyone seeking a genuine Japanese culinary experience.

Beyond the soba, the izakaya-style dining and extensive menu are worth choosing. You can make a full meal out of small plates, sharing different skewers of yakitori, or trying a variety of donburi and seafood dishes. The menu offers a fantastic mix of comfort food, healthy options, and vegan and vegetarian choices, ensuring that everyone in your group can find something they love. The restaurant’s status as a Michelin Guide-approved establishment also provides a seal of quality that is hard to ignore, giving diners confidence in the food and service.

Furthermore, the atmosphere and amenities make Soba Totto a great place to be. The cozy and trendy interior, coupled with the fast and attentive service, creates an environment that is both relaxing and efficient. It's a place where you can unwind after a long day or grab a quick, high-quality meal on the go. The availability of a private dining room is a bonus for special occasions or business meetings. The restaurant's great beverage selection, including a variety of beers and cocktails, makes it an excellent choice for happy hour or a pre-dinner drink. In a city with countless dining options, Soba Totto stands out for its unique blend of culinary tradition, high-quality food, and a welcoming atmosphere, making it a truly worthwhile destination.

Soba Totto

211 E 43rd St, New York, NY 10017, USA