Koya Soho

£11 - £25 / Japanese, Vegetarian options

50 Frith St, London

Opening hours

10AM-10PM

Sunday 10AM-10PM
Monday 10AM-10PM
Tuesday 10AM-10PM
Wednesday 10AM-10PM
Thursday 10AM-10PM
Friday 10AM-10PM
Saturday 10AM-10PM

Stepping into this small, bustling haven of Japanese cuisine is like being transported straight to an authentic udon bar. The atmosphere at the establishment is lively and engaging, thanks, in part, to the open kitchen that provides diners with a view of the skilled chefs meticulously crafting each dish. With seating that encircles the kitchen, patrons are offered a front-row seat to the art of udon preparation, creating a dynamic yet intimate dining experience. The menu is a delightful love letter to udon, boasting handcrafted noodles that showcase both traditional and inventive recipes. Noteworthy dishes include the curry atsu-atsu—a bowl of udon bathed in a mildly spiced curry broth—and kakuni, a braised pork belly side that is as tender as it is flavorful. For those after a vegetarian experience, the options are clearly marked, making it friendly for all dietary preferences. Even as the restaurant hums with activity and queues form outside, the promise of robust, flavorful bowls ensures it's worth the wait. Whether opting for the famed niku (beef) udon or another hot or cold variety, the culinary craftsmanship guarantees an unforgettable meal.