Actually, I go to ICON Village for the sole purpose of getting some Nick Vina Artisan Brötchen to savour for lunch. But surprise, surprise, the bakery happens to be off today, right on the day I decided to come here. So I end up going to Alice Boulangerie since I love this cafe based on my previous visit. But before going into the cafe, the corner of my eyes caught a simple but eye-catching signboard "Tokyo Soba". And acting on pure gut instincts, I step into this humble little soba restaurant.
Everything here is self-service, from finding a seat, making payment, getting the food and putting back the used tray. So imagine me standing at the entrance for a minute, waiting to be ushered to a seat, only to realise it's all self-service lol.
The food here is way more than enough to make up for the lack of service and ambience. In addition, there is no service charge. Yes, the food is so simple yet so delicious. I feel that simple happiness, you know, the type shown in Japanese series about food, when chomping on the soba, tempura, ramen egg and spinach here.
First, the freshly handmade soba is perfect in texture, being al dente, yet easy to bite on. The light aroma of buckwheat is a magical match with the planty spiciness of wasabi, the pungency of finely chopping onion and the savoury noodle dipping sauce. I fall in love at the first bite of this comfort food.
More feelings of bliss arose when I bite into the umami rich ramen egg. This is a must add-on for the soba.
The prawn tempura features super crispy batter wrapped around fresh, juicy prawns. These are really excellent tempura.
The spinach soaked in yuzu sauce is soft and is thoroughly soaked with the essence of tangy yuzu. This is such a good accompaniment to the al dente soba in terms of texture and taste.
The Japanese yam has interesting texture, being stretchy and starchy. Taste wise, it is not exactly outstanding but one can order this for trying something with a unique texture.
I did not plan to write a note on food this week, but I end up writing one with the excitement of someone stumbling upon gold. This unassuming little restaurant is such an awesome surprise find. Considering that it is absolutely value for money. I will go back often.
Thoughts: Happiness in Simplicity!
Nearest MRT: Tanjong Pagar
