Teuchi Udon Teraya: Handmade Sanuki Udon

Teuchi Udon Teraya (手打ちうどん寺屋) is a celebrated Sapporo restaurant dedicated to the art of handmade Sanuki-style udon. What sets it apart is the remarkable texture of its noodles: they are unusually long and possess a firm, satisfying chewiness—a quality known as 'koshi'—that regulars consistently praise. This is paired with meticulously fried tempura that arrives crisp and remarkably free of oil.

Visitors rave about the noodle's texture and smooth feel, especially in cold preparations like bukkake (drizzled with broth) and tenzaru (cold dipping noodles with tempura). The tempura itself is a highlight, with the kashiwa (chicken), kakiage (mixed vegetable and seafood fritter), and gobo (burdock root) pieces earning special mention. Other popular choices include the rich curry udon and the shop's Sanuki-style oden. Reviewers recently paid around ¥1,400 for bukkake tempura and ¥1,300 for tenzaru udon, with a typical lunch costing between ¥1,000 and ¥1,999. Many consider it excellent value for the quality.

The restaurant's popularity means there are practical points to consider. Lunchtime queues are common, particularly between 12:00 and 1:00 PM, though staff take orders in line to speed up service. The atmosphere is often described as brisk and efficient. Be prepared for a cash-only payment system and very limited parking.

• Getting There: The restaurant is about a 20-minute walk (1.1 km) from Kotoni Station. Bus routes also serve the area.
• Booking: Reservations are not accepted. Arrive early, especially at lunchtime, as they may close once the noodles sell out.
• Payment: Cash only. Credit cards, electronic money, and QR code payments are not accepted.
• Seating: There are 22 seats, including a counter and small tables.
• Children: Children are welcome.
• Parking: There are five free parking spaces available behind the restaurant.
• Smoking: The entire restaurant is non-smoking.