Sohonke Nishin-Soba Matsuba

Established in 1861, Matsuba is the original creator of ‘Nishin Soba.’ In 1882, the second generation owner invented this dish by combining dried half-cut herring (nishin) with soba noodles, which eventually became a famous Kyoto specialty. The fifth generation continues to preserve this original flavor.

The dish's only topping is the specially prepared ‘Nishin Bōni’ (simmered herring stick), a secret recipe that infuses the herring's sweet and spicy flavor into the delicate soba broth, creating a rich taste. Chopped green onions are served separately for added flavor. For heartier appetites, options include ‘Nishin Soba’ with herring shigure rice, and a cold version for warm days. Other menu items include tempura soba, duck soba, and various standard soba dishes, set meals, and rice bowls.

The shopfront also sells original herring products like Nishin Bōni, soba sets, rolled herring, and herring beans, perfect for souvenirs.