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Food

Koya Japanese Restaurant Hackney

4.2 (431)$$ · Mid-range

Koya focuses tightly on udon in the Sanuki tradition, and the strength of that specialism shows in reviews from diners who've travelled specifically within Japan to chase the same noodle style and still rate this branch highly. It's also noted as unusually family-friendly, with a kids' menu offering genuinely healthy options that one reviewer says is hard to find elsewhere. At 4.2 stars and mid-range pricing, it suits both a focused solo noodle lunch and a relaxed family meal, near Broadway Market's wider food and market scene. It's a good option for those wanting something specific and well-executed rather than a broad menu.

✨ Reasons to go

  • 1Specializes exclusively in Sanuki-style udon, a specific noodle tradition from Takamatsu, Japan
  • 2One reviewer who traveled to Takamatsu specifically for Sanuki udon rates this the best outside Japan

💡 Good to know

  • 1Booking is recommended, particularly at peak lunch and dinner times
  • 2order the udon as the specialty rather than looking for a broader Japanese menu
  • 3it's a solid choice for families, given the kids' menu reviewers specifically praise

⏱️ Typical visit

1h15

🕰️ Best time

lunchtime, afternoon, early evening or evening

🚶 Walking intensity

Easy pace

📍

Address

10 Broadway Market Mews, London E8 4TS, UKGoogleApple
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Booking

Booking recommended

What people say

"As a massive udon lover who has even travelled to Takamatsu (the holy grail of Sanuki udon) purely for the food, I can confidently say that Koya Ko serves the best udon I’ve ever had outside of Japan.Having lived in London for 15 years, it is an absolute privilege to have a spot of this calibre in the city. The texture of the noodles and the depth of the broth are simply exceptional. Today, I had the tofu udon, and it was flawless. The cozy, casual vibe of this London Fields branch makes the experience even better. If you appreciate proper, authentic udon, this place is a must-visit. Five stars aren't enough!!!"

ryan Jay