Shin Udon

I recently had the pleasure of dining at Shin Udon in Tokyo, Japan, and despite the long queue and the pouring rain, I can confidently say that it was well worth the wait. With numerous rave reviews online, my expectations were high, and I'm thrilled to say that Shin Udon did not disappoint. Let's start with the queue. Yes, it was more than an hour long, and enduring the rain was not the most pleasant experience. However, the anticipation built up during the wait only heightened my excitement for the udon that awaited me. If anything, the long queue was a testament to the popularity and reputation of Shin Udon. Once inside, I was greeted by a cozy and inviting atmosphere that instantly made me feel at ease. The staff were friendly and accommodating, which further added to the overall positive dining experience. Now, let's get to the star of the show—the udon. Oh boy, was it something special! The udon noodles at Shin Udon were exceptional, with a perfect chewy texture that delighted my taste buds. Despite the relatively modest amount of ingredients in the bowl, the flavors were outstanding. Every mouthful was bursting with a delicate balance of umami and subtle richness, leaving me craving more. The simplicity of the dish allowed the quality of the udon noodles to shine through. The broth, although not overly complex, was flavorful and comforting. It complemented the noodles beautifully, resulting in a harmonious combination that left a lasting impression. As mentioned, the portion size may seem relatively small, but trust me, the udon was so delicious that I could have easily devoured two bowls myself. It's a testament to the sheer quality and taste that Shin Udon brings to the table. While the focus at Shin Udon is primarily on the udon itself, it's worth noting that the restaurant also offers a variety of toppings and condiments to enhance your dining experience. From tempura to green onions and grated ginger, you have the freedom to customize your udon according to your preferences. The only reason I'm not giving Shin Udon a perfect five-star rating is due to the long queue and the potential inconvenience of waiting for a considerable amount of time. However, if you're willing to brave the wait, you'll be rewarded with an unforgettable udon experience that will leave you craving for more. In conclusion, if you find yourself in Tokyo and have a hankering for some extraordinary udon, make your way to Shin Udon. The wait may be long, but once you taste the exceptional chewiness and exquisite flavors of their udon, you'll realize that it's all worth it. Just be prepared to exercise some patience and come hungry, because Shin Udon will leave you wanting more.