Kawara Soba in Tokyo at Buchi Shirokane Takanawa: Shimonoseki Flavors in Minato

Makayla M.
Nov 28
4 min read

Tokyo is a city of contrasts. Towering skyscrapers share space with quiet residential streets, and Michelin-starred restaurants sit alongside tiny neighborhood izakayas. Amid this diversity, finding a place that combines authenticity, regional flavor, and a welcoming atmosphere can feel like discovering a hidden gem.

Tokyo at night, red lighting and bright lighting highlight the night time street with people.

Buchi in Tokyo's Shirokane Takanawa neighborhood is one such gem, a restaurant that transports diners from the bustling streets of Tokyo to the coastal city of Shimonoseki, Yamaguchi Prefecture, without leaving the city.

Kanmon Bridge in Shimonoseki set against a blue sky and ocean. — Kanmon Bridge in Shimonoseki. Wikimedia Commons.

Here, the focus is on the regional traditions of western Japan: seafood harvested fresh from the sea, fugu (pufferfish) prepared with precision, and kawara soba, a unique green tea soba served on a heated roof tile. Buchi offers a taste of Japan’s western coast cuisine in the heart of Tokyo.

Exploring Regional Cuisine in Shirokane‑Takanawa

To appreciate Buchi, it helps to know the neighborhood it calls home. Shirokane Takanawa, in Minato Ward, is a quiet, upscale area that contrasts sharply with the neon glare and crowds of central Tokyo. Tree-lined streets, mid-rise apartment buildings, and the occasional embassy or cultural institution lend the area an air of understated elegance.

The small entrance to Buchi Izakaya hidden underneath a white staircase.

Despite its calm, Shirokane‑Takanawa is highly accessible. It sits just a few stops from major transit hubs, allowing visitors to enjoy a short retreat steps away from the city’s energy.

The neighborhood attracts a curated selection of restaurants and cafes, many of which emphasize quality ingredients and refined dining experiences. Here, amidst this quiet sophistication, Buchi finds the perfect stage to showcase the bold flavors and culinary traditions of Shimonoseki.

Buchi: Regional Cuisine with a Tokyo Twist

Buchi opened its doors in 2015 with a clear vision: to introduce Tokyo diners to the seafood-rich cuisine of Shimonoseki. The menu is a celebration of the coastal city’s specialties, blending the authenticity of regional dishes with the finesse expected in Tokyo’s dining scene. The result is a relaxed yet polished atmosphere, where diners can enjoy the craft behind each dish without feeling intimidated by formality.

The intimate, warm dining area of Buchi Izakaya with a small wooden bar counter lined with Japanese plates looking into the kitchen, where the chef is preparing food with his back turned away from the camera.

The restaurant’s name, “Buchi” (ぶち), is a nod to its roots. In the local dialect of Shimonoseki, the word conveys emphasis, meaning “super” or “very.” It’s a fitting name for a restaurant that aims to bring the essence of its region to Tokyo in a bold, uncompromising way.

More detailed look behind the counter at Buchi Izakaya.

From Kawara Soba to Fugu in the Heart of Tokyo: Buchi's Signature Dishes

Buchi’s menu is anchored by several standout offerings, all bringing regional flavors to Tokyo. Here are some of our favorites:

Kawara Soba

This iconic dish from Shimonoseki is a feast for both the eyes and the palate. Green tea soba noodles are served on a heated roof tile, called kawara in Japanese topped with tender slices of beef, fried eggs, and seasonal garnishes.

The heat from the tile slightly crisps the noodles, creating a delightful contrast in texture. It is a dish that embodies the spirit of western Japan: simple, flavorful, and deeply satisfying.

Fugu (Pufferfish)

Shimonoseki is Japan’s fugu capital, and Buchi honors that tradition. Expertly prepared sashimi and tempura allow diners to experience the delicate, subtly sweet flavors of this prized fish.

Two plates of Fugu with garnishes like lime, scallions, and soy sauce on a wooden table.

Each bite showcases the care and precision required to handle this potentially dangerous ingredient safely, a testament to the chef’s skill and dedication.

Local Sake & Sides

Complementing the food is a curated selection of sake, many from Yamaguchi Prefecture.

Award-winning brews pair beautifully with the restaurant’s side offerings, enhancing the dining experience with regional authenticity.

Two glasses of Sake on a wooden table. — Try different types of sake and other drinks on our Shinjuku Izakaya Tour.

Atmosphere and Experience

Stepping into Buchi, one is immediately struck by the balance between intimacy and openness. The interior features counter seating and small tables, making it ideal for solo diners, couples, or small groups. Warm wood tones and simple decor create a welcoming environment, while thoughtful lighting highlights the artistry of each dish.

Brown wooden wall covered in handwritten messages and signatures. A hand holding a black marker is adding text. Warm, casual atmosphere. — Write your name on the wall to commemorate you once-in-a-lifetime izakaya experience!

The restaurant operates primarily in the evenings and maintains a mid-range pricing structure, encouraging diners to order multiple dishes and explore the menu fully. This approach reflects the philosophy behind the cuisine: it’s not just about eating; it’s about savoring, exploring, and connecting with a region through its flavors.

What Makes Buchi Special

Buchi stands out for its commitment to regional authenticity. Every element, from the name to the ingredients to the presentation, speaks to a sense of place. Dining at Buchi is more than a meal; it’s an invitation to experience Shimonoseki’s culinary heritage within Tokyo’s urban fabric.

Olives in white cups with a painted chicken and shiba inu dog.

It’s also a reminder that regional cuisine, when done thoughtfully, can feel modern and exciting. The restaurant’s menu doesn’t rely on gimmicks or trends. Instead, it emphasizes craftsmanship, seasonal ingredients, and storytelling through food. Each dish has a narrative, connecting diners to the culture, geography, and traditions of Japan’s western coast.

Tips for Visiting Buchi

Reserve in advance: Evening seats are popular, and reservations ensure a smooth experience.
Without a reservation, ordering options are limited to the course menu of the day.
Please note that each guest is required to order at least one drink and at least three items that do not include the signature kawara soba.

Sizzling sliced steak on a black hot plate with two small bowls of sauce on a wooden table. The mood is warm and appetizing.

Try the specialties early. Dishes like kawara soba may require preparation time.
Consider sake pairings. The staff can recommend options that highlight the nuances of the menu.
Go early for a quieter experience. Early evenings provide a relaxed atmosphere ideal for savoring the meal.
Arrive early or linger afterward to explore the Shirokane Takanawa neighborhood's calm streets, cafes, and bakeries.

Final Thoughts

Buchi in Shirokane Takanawa is a testament to the power of regional cuisine. In a city as vast and varied as Tokyo, it offers a focused, authentic experience: seafood from the western coast, the thrill of expertly prepared fugu, and the unique charm of kawara soba. Coupled with the serene elegance of Shirokane Takanawa, it’s a dining destination that goes beyond taste, delivering a story of place, culture, and culinary tradition all in the heart of Tokyo.

Ready to Eat and drink in Shinjuku’s backstreets?

Join our Shinjuku Izakaya Tour and explore three hidden izakayas know for their unique take on Japanese flavors, hospitality, and atmosphere. See Dates & Availability.