Kirimugiya Jinroku

Tucked away in Tokyo’s Naruko neighborhood, Kirimugiya Jinroku is the kind of udon shop that takes its craft seriously. The true test of any great udon joint lies in its cold zaru noodles—and here, they arrive in pristine, elegant bundles that practically gleam under the light. Each strand is impossibly smooth, perfectly untangled, and has that satisfying chewy bounce that udon lovers dream about.

The menu offers plenty of ways to enjoy their handmade noodles, whether you prefer them chilled with dipping sauce, swimming in steaming hot broth, or topped with creamy mentaiko. But don’t overlook the tempura, which features an impossibly thin, shatteringly crisp batter. The standout is easily the soft-boiled egg tempura—crack through that golden shell and you’ll find a perfectly runny amber yolk waiting inside.

Kirimugiya Jinroku operates two locations, with the main Shinjuku restaurant drawing significant crowds. For a more relaxed experience, the Naruko outpost is the way to go. You’ll spend less time waiting in line and more time savoring those thick, springy noodles.

For an affordable, satisfying lunch in Tokyo, this humble udon spot delivers exactly what you want: expertly crafted noodles, stellar tempura, and no-frills hospitality. It’s the kind of place that reminds you why simple food done right never goes out of style.