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In Japan, buckwheat soba and creamy udon noodles are enjoyed in restaurants and noodle bars for both their taste and nutritional value. Soba-Ya brings this tradition to the East Village with an impressive menu of cold and hot noodle dishes as well as Japanese standards like sweet potatoes, squash, and regional sake. If you feel confused by the many unfamiliar names and choices on the menu, the helpful staff will guide you. It’s easy to be surprised when even the ice cream comes in unusual (yet delicious) flavors like black sesame or honey wasabi. — Sandra Nygaard

Nabeyaki (udon noodles with shrimp and vegetable tempura), $16.50