Tabelog ratingDate Okina (伊達 翁) is a celebrated soba restaurant in Hokkaido, belonging to the prestigious Takahashi school of soba masters. The focus here is on craft: the buckwheat is milled in-house and the noodles are cut by hand, with an emphasis on a smooth texture and clean flavour. The dipping sauce, a clear dashi with a distinct seafood character, is designed to complement, not overpower, the noodles.
Guests consistently praise the quality of the soba itself, often highlighting the tori-gobō seiro (soba with chicken and burdock root) and ten-seiro (with tempura). The multi-item 'soba set'—which includes additions like house-made tofu, konnyaku, yakimiso, and a zenzai dessert—is also very popular. Seasonal offerings like soba with pork kakuni or oysters are another major draw.
While the noodles are highly regarded, some diners have noted inconsistencies, such as uneven thickness or short, broken pieces. Opinions on the tempura vary, with some finding it perfectly crisp and others reporting it as soggy. Service can sometimes be brusque or slow during busy periods, and some popular dishes may sell out before closing.
For the quality of the craft, prices are considered fair by enthusiasts. Reviewers recently paid around ¥1,100 for basic mori soba, ¥1,600–¥1,700 for the popular tori-gobō seiro, and up to ¥2,500 for sets with tempura or pork kakuni. The typical lunch spend is between ¥1,000 and ¥1,999.
- Getting There: The restaurant is a 15-minute walk from JR Kitafunaoka Station, or a 3-minute walk from the Asahigaoka bus stop.
- Reservations: Bookings are not accepted. It is popular, so expect a queue. You may be asked to write down your name and wait in your car to be called. Arrive early, as items can sell out.
- Payment: Cash only. Credit cards, electronic money, and QR code payments are not accepted.
- Portions: Requests for large or extra portions are generally not accommodated.
- Seating: There are 28 seats, with both table and tatami options.
- Parking: Free on-site parking is available for up to 8 cars.
- Etiquette: You will be asked to remove your shoes upon entry; slippers are provided.
