<div class="tldr">Soba House began service on June 12, 2024, at 253 Eighth Avenue in Chelsea. The new restaurant takes over the space from the recently closed Sushi Counter.</div>
<ul class="key-facts">
<li>Soba House opened June 12, 2024.</li>
<li>Located at 253 Eighth Avenue, Chelsea.</li>
<li>Replaces Japanese spot Sushi Counter.</li>
</ul>
Soba House is the latest restaurant to arrive on Eighth Avenue, opening in the storefront previously occupied by Sushi Counter. The new operation is led by chef-owner Hiroshi Takeda, who brings experience from Sapporo and several Manhattan kitchens.
The menu centers on handmade soba noodles, prepared daily in-house. Cold and hot soba options are listed alongside small plates such as tempura and pickled vegetables. Limited sushi items remain, but the focus is on buckwheat noodles and traditional accompaniments.
Sushi Counter closed in April 2024 after five years in the neighborhood. Soba House owners have kept the counter-style layout but updated the décor with minimalist wood paneling and new lighting. Table service and takeout are both available. Lunch and dinner hours run daily except Mondays.
<h2>Frequently Asked Questions</h2>
<h2>Who is behind Soba House and what is their background?</h2>
<p>Soba House is operated by chef Hiroshi Takeda, who previously worked at soba and Japanese restaurants in both Sapporo and Manhattan. This is Takeda's first ownership venture in New York. His experience includes noodle-making and traditional Japanese cuisine.</p>
<h2>What type of menu does Soba House offer?</h2>
<p>The menu at Soba House features handmade soba noodles prepared daily. Dishes include cold zaru soba, hot kake soba, tempura, and small plates. A selection of beverages and a short list of sushi items are also available, though sushi is not the main focus.</p>
<h2>What were the circumstances around Sushi Counter's closing?</h2>
<p>Sushi Counter closed operations in April 2024 after five years in business. The closure was attributed to a decline in sales and changing neighborhood dining habits, according to a statement provided by the previous owners. The space remained vacant for two months before Soba House opened.</p>