Udon as comfort food — exactly what I needed

Some dishes exist to comfort and Udon is absolutely in that category. The subtly sweet and salty quality works on something almost primal — you feel the warmth of it immediately. sake does work that no substitute can replicate.

Japanese cuisine philosophy of shokunin craftsmanship shapes how even simple dishes are prepared. There's something about the a high-end kaiseki setting context that reinforces the comfort effect. barley tea alongside is the traditional way and it makes complete sense. I come back to this dish when I need something dependable and restorative.