Wataya Honten

Founded in 1921, Wataya Honten is a long-established soba restaurant. Known as the birthplace of hegi soba, it has been serving customers in Ojiya City, Niigata Prefecture, for over 100 years. Its distinctive method uses carefully selected buckwheat flour and funori seaweed as a binder. The restaurant is popular as a place to enjoy Ojiya’s traditional soba.

The signature menu item is “hegi soba.” It is known for its firm bite and smooth texture. The natural flavor of the soba and its supple mouthfeel are also part of its appeal. Pairings with freshly fried tempura or kamo nanban are also popular. In addition to the fluffy and fragrant “Unadon Set,” there are also unique seasonal menu items such as the Asian-style “Cold Bukkake Soba with Tomato & Cilantro” and “Hot and Sour Soup Tsuke Soba.” You can also change up the flavor with original seasonings developed by the restaurant, such as “Green Chili Oil” made with the local specialty chili pepper, kagura nanban.

The restaurant is located in an area where you can feel Ojiya’s textile culture and enjoy the scenery of the Shinano River. Inside, there are Approx. 50 seats, including raised tatami seating, in a calm Japanese-style space where you can enjoy soba in a relaxed atmosphere. There is parking for 15 cars, making it easy to visit by car.