Suzaki Shokuryohin Ten: Legendary Sanuki Udon

Suzaki Shokuryohin Ten (須崎食料品店) is not just a restaurant but a Kagawa Prefecture institution: a working grocery store with a noodle workshop (seimen-jo) on site that serves some of the most revered Sanuki udon in Japan. The experience is as unique as the noodles. You are handed a simple bowl of udon, which you then take to a station to dress yourself with dashi-soy, scallions, ginger, and perhaps a raw or soft-boiled egg.

The main event is the noodle itself, which visitors consistently describe as 'gontobu'—exceptionally thick, with a powerful, dense chew and a strong wheat aroma. They are served either hot (atsu) or cold (hiya), a simple preparation that showcases their texture. After dressing your noodles, you can select tempura sides like chikuwa (fish cake), korokke (croquettes), or tori-ten (chicken) before paying for everything at the grocery store's register. While most praise the quality, some note that the tempura can occasionally be lukewarm, and that there is no traditional soup broth, only the flavourful dashi-soy sauce.

The quality for the price is considered exceptional. Reviewers in 2024–2026 reported paying around ¥350 for a small bowl of udon and ¥500 for a large. A raw egg was about ¥50, while sides like chikuwa tempura were around ¥65 and korokke ¥100. Many visitors also purchase the shop's semi-raw souvenir noodles to take home.

• Reservations: Walk-in only; reservations are not accepted. Be prepared for long queues, often 30–90 minutes or more. Take a numbered ticket for your group upon arrival.
• Access: Located in Mitoyo city, Kagawa Prefecture. Access by car is strongly recommended. Parking for about 38 cars is available but fills up quickly.
• Payment: Cash only. Credit cards, electronic money, and QR code payments are not accepted. Bring small change.
• Service: This is a self-service establishment. After eating, you are expected to return your empty bowl to the designated collection point.
• Hours: The shop is open for breakfast and early lunch only and frequently sells out before the 11:30 AM closing time. Arrive early.
• Amenities: No free water is provided on site, so it's wise to bring your own bottle.
• Children: Children are welcome.