Introduction
Shinjuku is known for its countless ramen shops, but did you know you can also enjoy authentic Fukuoka-style udon here? Just a short walk from Shinjuku South Exit toward Yoyogi, “Udonya Shimbori” has gained a reputation for long lines and irresistible handmade noodles. We visited the restaurant to taste its popular dishes, including Mentai Kamatama Udon and Oyako Tempura Bukkake.
A Popular Udon Spot in Yoyogi
“Udonya Shimbori” was opened by the former manager of the famous Shinjuku udon shop “Udonya Shin.” Here, Fukuoka wheat is used to prepare udon noodles that are freshly kneaded, cut, and boiled daily.
The restaurant is located near NTT Docomo Tower, just past Takashimaya Shinjuku on Meiji-dori. The constant line outside, especially during lunch, is a clear sign of its popularity.
Inside “Udonya Shimbori”
The restaurant offers 28 seats in a mix of counter and table seating. Bright and clean, it has a welcoming atmosphere where the majority of customers are women. From the counter, you can watch the owner hand-making the noodles.
The menu includes a wide variety of hot and cold udon dishes, from kake-udon to kamatama, bukkake, and even creative styles like “Carbonara Udon” and “Pepperoncino Kamatama.”
Must-Try Dishes: Mentai Kamatama Udon and Oyako Tempura Bukkake
We ordered two of the restaurant’s signature dishes.
- Mentai Kamatama Udon with Cream and Butter (¥1,200)
Thin, freshly cooked noodles with a soft bite, mixed with mentaiko, butter, cream, egg, and green onion. The flavors balance perfectly—not too salty, not too heavy—with a rich egg yolk and a punch of black pepper. - Oyako Tempura Bukkake Udon (¥1,250)
Served cold for extra firmness and refreshing texture. The broth is slightly sweet, a Fukuoka specialty. Juicy chicken tempura and a perfectly half-cooked egg tempura make this dish hearty yet delicate.
Final Thoughts
“Udonya Shimbori” is just a 5-minute walk from Shinjuku-sanchome or 3 minutes from Yoyogi Station. With freshly handmade noodles, perfectly fried tempura, and attentive service, it offers a dining experience you won’t find at chain restaurants.
If you plan to visit, be prepared to wait in line, especially at lunchtime, and bring water on hot days as the queue has little shade.
Store Information
- Name: Udonya Shimbori
- Address: 5-23-9 Sendagaya, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo
- Access: 3 min from Yoyogi Station, 5 min from Shinjuku-sanchome Station
- Hours: Weekdays 11:30–15:30 / 17:30–21:30, Saturdays 11:30–15:30
- Closed: Sundays, Mondays
- Seats: 28
- Payment: Cash only
- Tabelog Rating: 3.52 (as of May 2024)
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