Gonbei

This small, warmly lit udon shop in the vicinity of Waseda University offers top-notch noodles on a student-friendly budget. Udon sets start at ¥600 and include free refills of takikomi gohan (rice seasoned with dashi broth and vegetables), while the menu also offers several variations of dipping noodles such as chilled sesame, as well as hot broths like the warming winter favourite of nikujaga (meat and potato) udon. Get there before noon or after 1pm to avoid the lunch rush.