Yume Ga Arukara
GO: for chefs Tsuyoshi Nishioka and Tomo Shinoda’s showstopping niku (beef) udon, the one and only thing they serve at Yume Ga Arukara.
ORDER THE: niku udon—it’s the reason why Yume Ga Arukara is one of our 2018 Hot 10 restaurants. The team makes everything in-house, from the intensely meaty broth to the squiggly noodles, and each bowl is perfectly calibrated with a splash of hot broth, a mound of noodles, a scattering of scallions, some grated daikon, and a lemon slice for the most satisfying udon you’ll ever eat.
THE VIBE IS: very Tokyo. The tiny noodle counter has has that same handmade feel with wood desk-like seating made by Nishioka’s wife, an aspiring carpenter. It has that kind of intimate, convivial atmosphere you’d find at a yakitori stall. Even though it’s hidden in a Japanese food court at Lesley College, you won’t miss it. Lines form early before the shop opens, so prepare yourself accordingly.
PRACTICAL STUFF: Open Tuesday through Thursday, 5 p.m. to 9 p.m., and Friday and Saturday, 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. and 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. Closed Sunday and Monday. Make sure you bring cash.
