Tabelog ratingKAMAYOSHI (麺匠 釜善) has earned a stellar reputation for its unusual but brilliant take on udon. The restaurant combines two distinct regional styles: the firm, high-tensile noodles of Sanuki province with the clear, umami-rich dashi broth of Hakata, which is made from ago (flying fish). This creates a uniquely satisfying bowl that has become a destination for noodle lovers.
Guests consistently praise the texture of the noodles, describing them as perfectly chewy and resilient. The broth is another highlight, lauded for its clean yet deep and savoury flavour. Popular orders include the cold 'hiyakake' udon, which showcases the quality of the noodles and broth, and bowls topped with freshly fried tempura, such as the chicken and chikuwa (fish cake) combination. The oversized, aromatic gobo (burdock root) tempura is a signature item. Many reviewers, including international visitors, also appreciate the generous portions—a standard 300g serving can be upsized to 500g for free.
However, visitors should be aware of the shop's strict house rules, which are enforced to manage queues. A dining time limit of 20–30 minutes is often stated, and some guests have reported feeling rushed. The restaurant also prohibits large luggage and does not admit children under the age of six. While most find the staff helpful, a minority have described their enforcement of the rules as abrupt.
For the quality on offer, prices are very reasonable. Reviewers recently paid around ¥700 for a simple cold kake udon, and ¥1,050 for a bowl with chicken and chikuwa tempura. Monthly specials can be around ¥1,200–¥1,400. Most diners agree that KAMAYOSHI offers excellent value.
- Getting There: The restaurant is a 4-minute walk from the North Exit of Kanda Station (JR Lines) or a 3-minute walk from Exit A2 of Awajicho or Ogawamachi stations.
- Booking: Reservations are not accepted; walk-in only. Expect to queue, especially during weekday lunch hours.
- Ordering: Orders are placed via a ticket machine at the entrance. English, Chinese, and Korean menus are available, and staff are often on hand to assist.
- House Rules: Children must be at least 6 years old to enter. Large luggage like suitcases is not permitted inside. A dining time limit of 20-30 minutes may be enforced during busy periods.
- Payment: Credit cards (Visa, Master, UnionPay), electronic money (transportation IC cards like Suica, Rakuten Edy, iD), and QR code payments (PayPay, Alipay) are all accepted.
- Seating: There are 14 seats, including a counter and a few small tables.
- Smoking: The entire restaurant is non-smoking.
- Parking: No dedicated parking is available.
