Ikenoya: The Three-Tier Soba Tower in Sagamihara
A proper soba place in Sagamihara. Large and extra-large portions for the same price. The 'soba tower,' crisp tempura, flavored rice, even a self-checkout machine — every soba lover's satisfaction point covered.
Spacious and modern, bridging casual and refined
The first thing you notice walking in is how spacious the place is for a soba shop.
It carries a kappo-style refinement alongside an everyday casualness, so you can step in at the “slightly nicer soba shop” mental temperature without hesitation.
Walls and furniture stay on a muted palette, and the lighting is a soft, not-too-bright tone that doesn’t fatigue your eyes even on a long visit.
Table spacing is generous, so even at peak lunch the room doesn’t feel pressured.
Large = extra-large, at the same price — generous policy
A quietly great rule for soba fans: large and extra-large portions are priced the same. You can order from a single-portion size up to a roughly triple-portion without worrying about cost. “Eat hearty today” vs. “keep it light today” become a same-day mood decision — a design that clearly pays off for repeat customers.
The extra-large arrives as a serious “soba tower”
Order the extra-large and out comes a three-tier soba tower. Most first-timers burst out laughing at the sight, take a photo, and only then start eating. The noodles themselves are on the light side despite the quantity, so you eat further than you’d expect. Pairs well with the dipping sauce — the flavor doesn’t dull, even by the last bite.
Crisp tempura and standout takikomi rice
Tempura comes in a light batter, with the fresh crispness of something just pulled from the oil. Shrimp and a good range of vegetables — enough to hold up a proper lunch set.
The surprise star: the takikomi rice that comes with the set. The rice itself has a clear aroma, and alternating between soba and rice feels like using every drawer in the washoku cabinet — satisfaction jumps a level.
Soba × tempura × flavored rice each play their role properly, and each element performs at a star level.
Digital checkout, fast lunch turnover
Checkout is done at an in-store self-service register. Cash, credit cards, and e-money are all accepted, so there’s no stress waiting at the counter even when it’s busy. The UI is intuitive, so first-timers won’t fumble. Even a great meal can be dulled by a slow checkout at the end — a soba shop that’s thought through that touchpoint made a notably good impression on me.