When people think of Fukuoka, the first thing that often comes to mind is ramen. Fukuoka is renowned in Japan as the birthplace of ramen, especially the famous Hakata ramen. However, Fukuoka is not just about ramen; udon is also a must-try specialty in this region. In this article, we’ll explore the udon culture of Fukuoka and recommend some of the best udon spots in the city.
The Charm of Fukuoka Udon
Fukuoka’s udon stands out with its slightly thicker and chewier noodles compared to other regions in Japan. The broth is also unique, typically made from a rich anchovy base with added katsuobushi (bonito flakes) to create a deep, savory flavor. This distinctive taste has made Fukuoka udon popular among both locals and tourists.
Recommended Udon Restaurants in Fukuoka
- Sukesan Udon (資さんうどん)
- Location: Throughout Fukuoka City
- Highlights: Sukesan Udon is a well-known chain in Fukuoka, beloved for its reasonable prices and diverse menu. The “Goboten Udon” (burdock tempura udon) is particularly famous. The friendly service and clean establishments make it a hit among travelers.
- Recommended Dishes: Goboten Udon, Kamatama Udon (udon with raw egg)
Sukesan Udon is highly popular among Fukuoka locals. With multiple locations across the city, it’s easy to find a branch nearby. The most famous dish is the “Goboten Udon,” featuring crispy burdock tempura paired with chewy udon noodles. Sukesan Udon also offers a variety of tempura and rice bowl options, providing ample choices for diners. It can get crowded during lunch and dinner, so timing your visit well is advisable.
- Makino Udon (牧のうどん)
- Location: Various locations in Fukuoka City
- Highlights: Known for its unique preparation and noodle texture, Makino Udon’s noodles continuously absorb the broth, making it a fun and interactive dining experience as you might need to add more broth while eating.
- Recommended Dishes: Niku Udon (meat udon), Kake Udon (basic udon)
Makino Udon offers a distinctive udon experience with its noodles that keep soaking up the broth. Initially served with a lot of broth, the noodles gradually absorb it, requiring diners to add more broth as they eat. This feature adds a unique touch to the dining experience. The Niku Udon, with tender meat and chewy noodles, is a favorite among customers. Makino Udon is well-loved by locals for its generous portions and reasonable prices.
- Udon West (ウエスト)
- Location: Throughout Fukuoka City
- Highlights: Udon West is a popular chain offering a variety of udon dishes and tempura. Known for its clean and bright dining spaces, it is an excellent choice for families and groups.
- Recommended Dishes: Bukkake Udon (cold udon), Tempura Udon
Udon West has numerous branches throughout Fukuoka, making it a convenient choice for a quick and delicious meal. The Bukkake Udon, a cold udon dish, is particularly popular during the warmer months. Tempura Udon, featuring crispy tempura on top of hot udon, is another favorite. The chain is known for its clean restaurants and efficient service, making it a great option for families and groups.
Special Udon Dishes in Fukuoka
Fukuoka offers several unique udon dishes that you won’t find elsewhere. For example, “Motsunabe Udon” combines the city’s famous motsunabe (offal hot pot) with udon noodles, resulting in a rich and flavorful dish. Another example is “Mentaiko Udon,” where spicy cod roe is mixed with udon, creating a delightful blend of flavors. Exploring these variations allows you to experience the diverse culinary culture of Fukuoka.
Travel Tips for Fukuoka
Fukuoka is a highly convenient city to navigate, with its major attractions easily accessible by subway and bus. From Fukuoka Airport, it takes about 10 minutes by subway to reach the city center. The primary transportation hubs are Hakata Station and Tenjin Station, from where you can easily reach most destinations.
Udon restaurants in Fukuoka are mainly located in the city center, making them convenient stops during your sightseeing tours. It’s advisable to carry some cash, as many small restaurants in Japan prefer cash payments.
Most udon shops offer English menus or menus with pictures, so ordering is easy even if you don’t speak Japanese. Visiting places frequented by locals can also give you a more authentic dining experience, so consider following local recommendations.
