Tabelog ratingHinode Udon (日の出うどん) is a long-running specialist that has become synonymous with curry udon in Kyoto. What draws the consistent crowds is its unique broth: a thick, viscous curry that is deeply savoury with a pronounced dashi backbone. This rich sauce clings perfectly to the soft, plump Kyoto-style udon noodles, creating a comforting and intensely flavourful bowl that arrives piping hot.
Reviewers almost universally praise the Special Curry Udon (特カレーうどん), which includes tender beef, fried tofu (age), and onions. The simple, homey atmosphere and the kind, grandmotherly staff are also frequently mentioned as highlights. The restaurant is well-prepared for international visitors, with English menus and photos available to help with ordering. Guests also appreciate thoughtful touches like free hot tea while waiting in line and the option of half-sized bowls for smaller appetites.
The main drawback is the restaurant's popularity, which translates to regular queues, often 30 to 60 minutes during lunch and on weekends. A few diners note that the broth can be quite salty for their taste, and that any fried tempura toppings can lose their crispness in the thick sauce. The shop also sometimes sells out and closes early, occasionally before 3:00 PM.
Despite the wait, Hinode Udon is considered excellent value. A typical meal costs between ¥1,000 and ¥1,999. Recent visitors paid around ¥1,300 for the Special Curry Udon and ¥1,200 for a standard meat and curry udon. With generous portions and high-quality ingredients, it offers a satisfying and affordable taste of a local Kyoto classic.
- Getting There: Hinode Udon is about a 16-minute walk from Keage Station on the Kyoto Municipal Subway Tozai Line.
- Payment: Cash only. Credit cards, electronic money, and QR code payments are not accepted.
- Booking: Reservations are not accepted. Arrive outside of peak lunch hours to minimize wait times, but expect to queue.
- Service: English menus with photos are available. Staff can provide paper aprons on request to protect clothing from the curry sauce.
- Seating: The restaurant has 40 seats, including some traditional tatami floor seating.
- Children: Children are welcome.
- Smoking: The entire restaurant is non-smoking.
- Parking: No parking is available.
