Samurai Udon is located at the Minoshima-kita intersection, a 15-minute walk south from Hakata Station. Shop-owner Hiroyuki Soma’s dedication to udon is like that of a samurai to the sword, hence the shop’s moniker. The massive burdock and chikuwa tempura that jut beyond the bowl’s edge even evoke the image of a samurai sword! But it’s the soup and noodles that keep customers coming back to Samurai. The light golden broth is made by hand from kombu and dried, non-oily fishes with no additives or preservatives, making it all-natural as well as delicious. The noodles are hand-made daily using an original blend of Kyushu flours; they maintain a naturally wheaty aroma and are full of bounce, just like udon should be. The final touch, the tempura, are fried upon order, and seasonal veggies round out the dish. We suggest the namesake Samurai Udon, but on weekends only, you can order the Samurai Special—a bowl of udon loaded with spicy curry.
Menu (tax excl.): Samurai Udon ¥850, Samurai Special ¥1,000, udon w/ shrimp tempura ¥800, toppings: pickled kombu ¥100, Shrimp (x2) ¥200, and more
*Prices to change from Oct. 1, 2019 following tax increase
*Foreign language menu: None / Cash only / Reservations possible / No smoking
Originally published in Fukuoka Now Magazine (fn207, Mar. 2016)
