Marugame Udon is known world-wide for its made-to-order Sanuki-style udon, which is a specific type of udon noodle originating from Japan’s Kagawa Prefecture, formerly known as the Sanuki region. Sanuki-style udon is one of the most popular and well-known udon varieties in Japan. The noodles are distinctly thick, chewy, and slightly firm, representing the perfect “Marugame texture.” Complemented by the house-made fragrant soup stock enveloping each strand and an array of toppings, every bowl of udon at Marugame promises a multisensory culinary journey. The company has just opened their first Canadian location in downtown Vancouver.

Inside the 3,500 square feet restaurant, Marugame Udon’s core promises of Atmosphere, Accessibility, and Authenticity are evident in the presence of their warm and inviting staff who will guide guests through their dining experience, and in the thoughtfully designed space with engaging elements that draw diners in. The distinctive Udon Square Icon is prominently displayed, and graphic walls tell the rich story of udon, adding an exciting element of visual interest to the dining area.

I have tried a selection of items off their Vancouver menu having tried
a few of their different udon and tempura dishes. They go by a numbering system on their menu to make items easier to remember.

Kake (the #1 on the menu)
Sanuki-Style Udon served in their dashi (traditional Japanese broth)

Nikutama (the #5 on the menu)
Sanuki-style Udon served in their Umami-rich (flavor-packed) sauce

Curry Nikutama (the #6 on the menu)
Sanuki-style Udon served in our Japanese curry sauce.

After ordering your udon and drinks you can choose which tempura you would like to add on to your meal, each is available for an extra charge. All of the ones we tried were good.

Shrimp tempura

Pumpkin croquettes

Zucchini

Chicken karage

They offer a couple of complementary sauces for dipping the tempura and you can get those after you get your order.

The new 80-seat restaurant, will be open seven days a week, serving delectable Sanuki-style udon noodles, tempura, and rice bowls for lunch and dinner from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. 

Marugame Udon is located at 589 Beatty Street in downtown Vancouver.You can follow them on Instagram @marugamecanada 

By: Richard Wolak