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Katsuo + Kombu
Master Critic Review
Katsuo + Kombu
8.2
Compact udon specialist making Fukuoka-style noodles in-house; broths run clean to hearty with seasonal tempura toppings. It’s a dependable noodle stop for lunch or early dinner along Divisadero.
Must-Try Dishes:
Kakiage udon, Niku udon, Kitsune udon
Scores:
Value: 8.6
Service: 7.8
Consistency: 8.2
Food Quality: 8.6
Atmosphere: 6.6
Cultural Relevance: 8.1
What makes it special: Fresh house-milled udon with focused, balanced broths.
Who should go: Noodle lovers seeking handmade udon
When to visit: Weekday lunch window to avoid lines
What to order: Kakiage udon; niku udon; add tempura sides
Insider tip: Broth strength varies—ask staff to suggest the day’s best pairing.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Mostly street parking along Divisadero; can be tough after 6pm on weekends—arrive early or use side streets like Grove or Hayes.
Dress code: Completely casual—most diners come in everyday wear, from hoodies to light jackets.
Noise level: Moderate; lively at lunch but easy to hold a conversation at smaller tables.
Weekend wait: 20–30 minutes at peak; no reservations accepted.
Weekday lunch: Usually a short 5–10 minute line during rush, otherwise walk-in friendly.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes—clear broths and veggie tempura make for satisfying non-meat options.
Vegan options: Limited—most broths use dashi, but you can request modifications for a lighter kombu-based soup.
Gluten-free options: Not ideal—udon is wheat-based, and no gluten-free noodle substitute is offered.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Better for a casual, no-fuss meetup than a formal date. The small, warm space and open kitchen can feel charming for a shared noodle lunch.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes—it's first-come, first-served only. Arrive slightly before standard meal hours for the shortest wait.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes—high chairs available and staff are patient with families. Kids tend to enjoy the mild broths and tempura sides.
Best For
Better for: House-made udon texture and clarity of broth beat larger ramen-focused spots nearby.
Skip if: You’re craving sushi or complex izakaya dishes—menu sticks to udon and a few sides.