Top on my list of mood elevating places to eat in London’s Soho is Koya. I am a huge fan of Japanese noodles. For me, they are the World’s greatest fast food. Who needs a burger when you can enjoy the noisy slurping goodness of a bowl of Udon?
Koya, 49 Frith Street Soho London W1D 4SG
Koya specialize in traditional Japanese Udon. They’re made daily on the premises, with dough kneaded in the original way (by their feet). Buddhist priests are credited with inventing the Udon noodle. It’s no wonder I feel so blissed out when I eat them.
Koya offer perfect lengths of noodle, rectangular in cross section, served with a selection of seasonal toppings. Today, Pea Vongole Udon is on the menu. I am all about simple pleasures, so Zari Udon is a must order for me. Zari Udon are chilled Udon noodles topped with shredded Nori and a cold dipping sauce made from Dashi, Mirin, and Shoyu.
The perfect spot for a kitchen voyeur is the bench seat that over-looks the kitchen. I think I spot Chris Martin working the Tempura section. The Scissor Sisters are being played on the kitchen’s sound system. I really do love this place.
So next time you’re…
“Gonna take your mama out all night
Yeah we'll show her what it's all about”
Take Jake Shears advice and take her to Koya. Show her what Udon are all about. Let the good times all roll out.
