Shungetsu

Open the menu and you are met with a nostalgic spread of noodles and hearty rice dishes. If you visit Shungetsu in Nishi-Sugamo, the first thing to consider is the old-school yellow katsu curry typical of a neighborhood soba shop. With generously cut onions, a mild sauce keeping heat to a minimum, and freshly fried cutlet, it offers a simple, comforting profile distinct from the browner dashi-laced Japanese-style curries. Pairing it with a side like mini kake soba rounds out a thoroughly filling meal with the gentle sweetness of the dashi broth.

Fragrant Tempura Soba and Varied Donburi Sets

Naturally, the core soba classics should not be overlooked. The tempura soba, crowned with a large shrimp tempura and accented with naruto fish cake and green beans, delivers a soothing bowl anchored by its savory dashi. Combinations with rice bowls are equally broad: katsudon, oyakodon, kaikadon, and tendon can all be ordered alongside a mini serving of mori soba or kake soba.

Small side dishes such as assorted tempura, motsuni (braised offal), and karaage are also on hand, making it easy to settle in with a beer while waiting for your noodles. Welcoming everyone from midday solo diners to local regulars, Shungetsu offers a comforting neighborhood soba experience—just be sure to keep cash on hand, as it is the only accepted payment method.