Tabelog ratingKamaage Udon Suzuan (釜揚げうどん 鈴庵) is a multi-award-winning udon shop in Nara, celebrated for one thing above all: the powerful chewiness, or 'koshi', of its house-made noodles. The thick, glossy strands have a firm, bouncy texture that has earned the restaurant a loyal following and a spot in the Tabelog Udon Top 100.
Diners consistently praise the quality of the noodles, served in a variety of hot and cold preparations, including frequent creative specials. The other star of the menu is the tori-ten (chicken tempura), which arrives as oversized, remarkably crisp-yet-juicy pieces, often paired with a house tartar sauce. Another signature item is the egg-on-barley rice (mugi-meshi), drizzled with a savory dried-fish (niboshi) oil. Portions are famously generous, making it a popular choice for diners with a healthy appetite.
While most experiences are positive, some reviewers report occasional inconsistency. This can include noodles that are slightly under- or over-cooked, or broths that seem thin on some visits. A minority of guests have also noted issues with cleanliness or brusque service, though this is not the common view.
Reviewers typically spend between ¥1,000 and ¥1,999. Recent examples include a cold chiku-tama shoyu udon for around ¥950, a spiced curry udon for about ¥1,100, and a set with chicken tempura and barley rice (鶏天月見ぶっかけ with 麦めし) for approximately ¥1,500. Given the large portions and quality of the core ingredients, most find it to be excellent value for money.
- Booking: Reservations are not accepted. The restaurant is popular and queues are common; you'll add your name to a waiting list at the door.
- Getting There: The restaurant is a 20-minute walk from Goido Station on the Kintetsu Osaka Line. Alternatively, take a bus to the "Mamino-naka 5-chome" stop. On-site parking is available but limited.
- Payment: Cash and QR code payments (such as PayPay) are accepted. Credit cards and other forms of electronic money are not.
- Ordering: Service is streamlined via a QR code ordering system, though a few reviewers have reported technical difficulties.
- Good to Know: Portions are very large, so consider ordering a smaller size if you have a light appetite. The restaurant is non-smoking and welcomes children.