0 Followers
Sanuki Udon
ZipPicks Awards
Best Japanese in Soho
Master Critic Review
Sanuki Udon
7.7
Vibes:
Cheap Eats Budget Brilliance
Quick Bites Champions
Hidden Gems Heaven
Solo Dining Sanctuaries
Across from NYU’s Stern campus, Sanuki Udon runs a cafeteria-style tray line for customizable udon bowls, rice dishes, and tempura at student-friendly prices. Fresh, chewy noodles, efficient service, and a constant rotation of beef and curry udon bowls make it an everyday Japanese stop rather than a special-occasion destination.
Must-Try Dishes:
Curry Udon, Beef Udon, Shrimp Tempura
Scores:
Value: 8.7
Service: 7.4
Consistency: 7.9
Food Quality: 8
Atmosphere: 6.3
Cultural Relevance: 7.2
What makes it special: Fast-casual udon line with handmade noodles and an extensive tempura bar.
Who should go: Budget-minded diners craving quick, filling Japanese noodles.
When to visit: Early lunch or mid-afternoon to dodge peak student rush.
What to order: Curry udon, beef udon, a side of shrimp tempura.
Insider tip: Grab a tray and build your bowl with extra tempura at the line.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking is limited near NYU; expect metered spots to turn over slowly. Best bet is nearby garages on Washington Sq. South or Mercer St.
Dress code: Casual — come as you are; students and locals typically dine in everyday wear.
Noise level: Moderate during peak lunch; generally easy to hold a conversation at off-hours.
Weekend wait: Usually minimal; the cafeteria-style line moves quickly with waits around 5–10 minutes.
Weekday lunch: Peak student rush can create a 10–20 minute line; before noon is typically no wait.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes — options like vegetable udon, plain broth bowls, and assorted vegetable tempura are available.
Vegan options: Limited — some broths contain dashi (fish-based), but dry udon with vegetable toppings is possible; confirm broth ingredients before ordering.
Gluten-free options: Minimal — udon noodles contain wheat, and most tempura batters are not gluten-free.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Only if you want something ultra-casual — the cafeteria line and quick turnover make it better for low-pressure meals than romantic outings.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes — Sanuki Udon does not take reservations, and seating is open; during rush times you may need to wait briefly for a spot to clear.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes — simple noodle bowls work well for younger kids, though the space can feel crowded during class-change rushes; no dedicated high chairs or kids’ menu.
Best For
Better for: Fast, customizable udon at a budget price point with reliably chewy noodles and quick service.
Skip if: You want a quieter, sit-down Japanese meal or a more refined udon experience — this is built for speed and value, not ceremony.