Photo: oneartsplaza.com

The DINING ESTABLISHMENT: Tei An

The LOCATION: 1722 Routh St. • One Arts Plaza Ste. 110 • Dallas, TX 75201

The ACCOLADES: Praised as one of the true, traditional soba houses in the Southwest.

The GOOD: Last things first: the soba ice cream resting on a pool of rich, black honey is divine. I advise you order one per person to assuage fighting.

The GREAT: Starting off with their white seaweed salad is a unique experience made familiar and delicious with the Asian flavors of rice vinegar and sesame.

The FIRST TRIP: First time? I recommend you try the soba sampler. It’s a plate of soba (buckwheat noodles) and four small dipping bowls of cool “sauces” in flavors like Texas Pecan and Black Sesame (my favorite). When the noodles are finished, the server comes by and transforms each sauce into a delicious soup by pouring hot cooking broth into each bowl from a teapot.

The SURPRISE: There is so much more than just soba. The vast menu begs you to try all you can and resolve to come back for more. Questions? Ask you server — they’re very knowledgeable about the menu and are happy to make recommendations.

The LAST BITE: Tei An is — in a word — special. From the elegant, zenlike décor to the chic drinks to the carefully prepared food, it’s truly a special meal you can experience any day of the year. Except Sundays, they’re closed.

Tei An at One Arts Plaza
1722 Routh St.
Dallas, TX 75201
214-220-2828
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