Sanukiya

Sanukiya's culinary focus centers entirely on the art of udon—those satisfyingly thick wheat noodles that represent one of Japan's most beloved comfort foods. The kitchen demonstrates its expertise through perfectly cooked noodles that achieve the ideal texture: tender yet toothsome, with just the right amount of chew that makes each bite deeply satisfying.

The restaurant's signature creation exemplifies their approach to udon excellence. This standout dish features a generous portion of udon noodles topped with savory minced pork that has been slowly braised in miso, developing deep umami flavors that permeate every bite. Crowning this composition sits a soft-boiled egg with a jammy yolk that, when broken, enriches the broth and creates a luxurious sauce that coats the noodles. This dish alone justifies the queues that form outside.

Beyond this signature offering, Sanukiya presents a range of udon preparations that showcase the noodle's versatility. The zaru udon arrives chilled, served on a bamboo mat with a dipping sauce—a refreshing option that highlights the pure flavor and texture of the noodles themselves. Hot udon bowls come in various configurations, each featuring carefully balanced broths that complement rather than overwhelm the noodles.

The menu extends to classic Japanese accompaniments that round out the udon experience. Crispy tempura—whether vegetable or seafood—provides textural contrast, while breaded tonkatsu cutlets offer hearty protein options. Golden karaage fried chicken delivers that addictive Japanese-style crunch, and delicate tamagoyaki rolled omelet adds a touch of sweetness. Fried tofu appears as another option, absorbing the flavors of accompanying sauces while maintaining its satisfying texture.

Small plates priced between €3 and €17 allow you to explore beyond the main noodle bowls, building a more comprehensive Japanese meal. Each dish demonstrates the kitchen's commitment to authentic preparation methods and quality ingredients, ensuring that whether you order a simple bowl of udon or a full spread of accompaniments, you're experiencing Japanese cuisine as it's meant to be enjoyed.