The rich dipping broth of "Kanda Yabusoba" — which even the gourmet writer Shotaro Ikeba made say "it stops the flow of time" (from his book "Tokyo's Good Eats") — lost its secret "kaeshi" seasoning in the February 19 fire. Pressed by fans wishing "for the earliest possible revival...," rebuilding plans are now underway.
About a 15-minute walk from Palaceside Building. Demolition of the fire-damaged building is progressing at the site in Kanda Awajicho. A notice reads: "Thank you sincerely for your patronage of Kanda Yabusoba. We deeply apologize for the great inconvenience and concern caused by the fire. Reconstruction began with demolition on March 21. Because the interior was severely burned, the existing building will be fully torn down and a new one built. Architectural plans are still blank, but we will do our utmost for an early reopening. We will announce the reopening date as soon as it is decided, and ask for your patience for now."
"Kanda Yabusoba" is 130 years old and the head house of the Yabu line, one of the "Three Great Edo Soba" shops. Famous as a haunt of literati and rakugo performers including Ikeba, it is also known for the proprietress greeting guests with a distinctive "Irassha~~i!"
Yuzo Kayama's TV program "Wakadaiso's Leisurely Stroll" is popular now, and the shop appeared in location shooting for that "Wakadaiso Series." It was filmed as the hero's family home in the movie "The Return of Wakadaiso." When Kayama strolled around Ochanomizu Station last May, that was mentioned.
I hope it reopens as soon as possible so we can be welcomed again with "Irassha~~i!" and taste that soba in the secret broth once more.