A tofu shop where you can fully enjoy the artisan's "recommended beans"
When we think of "delicious tofu," we tend to focus on its smoothness and richness, but when we listen to the artisans talk about their favorite beans, our perspective suddenly widens. There are more than 300 varieties of soybeans in Japan, and the variety of tofu varies as much as the number of techniques used by artisans to handle them.
There's "single origin" tofu, similar to coffee, which brings out the unique characteristics of a single type of bean, and "blended" tofu made from multiple varieties that are conscious of flavor balance and ease of cooking. Perhaps touring the tofu shops in town is a journey in search of each of us' own "favorite beans"...!
Miyoshi Tofu Factory
Founded in 1967. The silken tofu made from "Koito Zairai" soybeans from Kimitsu City, Chiba Prefecture, continues to be used by second-generation owner Shingo Hirata, and is known for its elegant, mellow sweetness and melt-in-the-mouth texture, earning it the nickname "Lady." This tofu is the culmination of his love for soybeans, who regularly visits the producing areas to deepen his relationships with the farmers. A mobile sales truck makes the rounds around the ward on weekdays.
Address: 3-22-11 Kyojima, Sumida-ku, Tachibana Shopping Arcade
Spirited Tofu Saitamaya
Founded in 1952, the third-generation owner, Hiroyuki Arai, fell in love with Tamahomare soybeans, which were once considered unsuitable for tofu production, and discovered the secret to tofu production. Shioda, a silken tofu made from rich soy milk with minimal water, boasts a deep, savory flavor that truly speaks to the passion of its artisans. They also have a wide variety of different tofu varieties available.
Address: 2-9-14 Takaramachi, Katsushika Ward
Onoda Tofu Shop
Founded in 1905, the shop's signature product, "Yondaime Kinu," is made by former chef and fourth-generation owner Shigeru Onoda, and uses "Otofuke Osodeburi," a Hokkaido soybean with a high sugar content and plenty of isoflavones. It melts gently in your mouth, allowing you to enjoy the lingering flavor of the beans. On Fridays, they produce limited-edition "Rikyu Tofu," which has a sesame aroma, and on Saturdays, they produce limited-edition tofu made with green soybeans and rare varieties of tofu.
Address: 5-25-6 Higashinakano, Nakano Ward
