Kyushu's beloved Shisusan Udon chain is making waves as it prepares to branch out with its latest restaurant set to open its doors on February 24, 2025, located in the vibrant Ryogoku district of Tokyo. Known for serving authentic udon dishes infused with the flavors and traditions of Kyushu, this expansion reflects the growing appetite for diverse udon experiences among urban diners.
Anticipation is building since the announcement of the new establishment, which follows the successful debut of Shisusan's first location in the Kanto region, the Yachiyo store, which opened its doors back in December 2024. The Yachiyo branch continues to draw crowds, highlighting the demand for Kyushu cuisine outside its home prefecture.
To tease the upcoming opening, there will be a preview event held on February 21, 2025, where lucky attendees will get the chance to sample the restaurant’s offerings before the grand opening. The Ryogoku location, situated at 2-16-2 Midori, within the Lions Plaza complex, promises patrons not only authentic dining but also the warmth of Kyushu's culinary arts.
Stepping inside Shisusan Udon, guests can look forward to enjoying popular specialties such as 'nikugoboten'—a beloved Kyushu-style tempura—and 'katsudon,' which melds perfectly with their udon. A proud corner of the restaurant will showcase 'the history of Shisusan Udon,' serving as both an informative exploration and attractive decor for first-time visitors.
According to official representatives from Shisusan, the udon itself is unique, "The texture of our udon is unique; it offers both smoothness and chewiness, lying midway between Sanuki and Hakata styles." This characteristic contributes to the delightful dining experience, whether enjoyed plain or enhanced with toppings such as the traditional 'tororo kombu'
For those who are unfamiliar with Kyushu’s culinary traditions, the chain aims to educate diners about their extensive menu. Suddenly, it becomes clear—it’s not just about the udon! Accompanying dishes will include varied options such as soba, curry, rice bowls, and not to forget, delightful side dishes like oden. This diversity caters to every palate and offers something for everyone to savor.
The restaurant's design is another highlight; with ample seating options to accommodate unaccompanied diners and families alike, including the cozy box seats at the back ideal for relaxation. Mechanized ordering through touch panels allows patrons to place their orders seamlessly, enhancing the modern dining experience.
Starting March 1, 2025, the restaurant will transition to 24-hour operations, providing flexibility for late-night cravings or early morning breakfast diners eager to experience the taste of Kyushu’s udon at any time. Despite initial anticipation of heavy traffic, management encourages diners to visit during off-peak hours to fully enjoy the culinary offerings without long waits.
Additional unique aspects of the dining experience include the chance for guests to enjoy 'botamochi,' traditional sweet red bean paste rice cakes made with Hokkaido azuki beans. This dish symbolizes the founder's commitment to maintaining the culinary nuances specific to Kyushu culture. The restaurant stresses the importance of these sweets as they serve as the perfect accompaniment to savory meals.
The influx of customers is expected following the grand opening, and Shisusan management remains optimistic, ''The opening is much anticipated, especially after the success of the Yachiyo branch; we expect heavy traffic initially but encourage patrons to visit during extended hours.''
Shisusan Udon is not just bringing udon to Tokyo; they are weaving their cultural heritage and flavors to the city, enriching the dining scene and hopefully satisfying the cravings of long-time fans as well as curious new diners.
From its unique udon dishes and culturally significant offerings to its 24-hour service plan, Shisusan Udon's Ryogoku branch is set to be more than just another restaurant; it embodies the spirit of Kyushu and seeks to create lasting memories around its dining table.