Udon Kyutaro

Udon Kyutaro is cheap, good and opens at 7am – a godsend for early risers looking for a hearty breakfast in the city. Located in the bustling business district of Honmachi, this standing-room-only udon specialist can fit eight people at a squeeze around its communal table, which explains why there’s often a queue outside its entrance. Don’t worry, turnaround is quick.

Beyond its affordable pricing starting from just ¥600 and the much-welcomed early opening hours, Udon Kyutaro has built a following for its thick and chewy Sanuki-style wheat noodles. The chef-owner had honed his skills in Kagawa prefecture, the heartland of Sanuki udon, before opening this restaurant in 2017.

The menu is plastered on a raw cement wall in the narrow space. The options are extensive, and though there are photos, everything is written in Japanese only. Popular items include the beef and maitake mushroom udon in clear broth, the shippoku hot soupy udon filled with simmered vegetables including daikon, carrots, fried tofu and burdock, as well as the meaty aburi udon topped with torched, smoky slices of pork belly.

A selection of tempura is available at the ordering counter to accompany your noodles. Payment is cash only.