Just a few minutes walk from Liverpool Street station, you will find the first London outpost from Marugame Udon, which is one of the largest Udon noodle restaurant chains in the world. Marugame is famous throughout Japan and the rest of Asia for its traditional Sanuki udon recipe, which has a chewier texture than other types of udon.
In Japan, each Marugame Udon restaurant features a traditional Japanese roof tile design and irregular wavy floorboards, reinforcing the Japanese philosophy of Wabi Sabi (to find beauty and acceptance in the imperfect), this quirky concept is reflected in the design of the London site. The expansive 4,000 square foot space has room for more than 100 diners and is casual in style - diners choose their udon over the counter, with the option to add tempura and musubi sides. Next, they make their way to a ‘build your own’ condiment station, which allows diners to spice up their bowls with fresh ginger, chillies, ‘tenkasu’ (tempura batter pieces) and extra Japanese delicacies.
The menu is as extensive as it is affordable (mains start from just under £4), with highlights including a variety of tempura (chicken, prawns, squid, etc.) plus chicken katsu curry udon and two pork tonkotsu with chashu and spicy miso pork. Exclusive to the London site is a dedicated vegan menu, which includes the likes of a curry udon and a vegan tempura batter which allows vegan diners to enjoy deep-fried vegetables.
To end your meal on a sweet note, you can indulge in traditional Japanese desserts such as mochi and dorayaki pancakes, as well as a selection of unlimited matcha or vanilla soft serve ice cream. To drink, there are Asahi beers, canned sparkling sake and a range of refillable soft drinks, including ginger kombucha and Japanese Ramume lemonade.