Sukesan Udon Kinshicho, which opened its doors on February 24, 2025, has swiftly become one of Tokyo's most talked-about dining spots. Located in Sumida Ward, this udon restaurant has been generating buzz not only among locals but also garnered attention from television crews and online discussions.
Initially heralded for its delicious offerings, the restaurant quickly became synonymous with long lines and hearty meals. With winter still gripping Japan, even frigid temperatures, including occasional snowfall, haven’t deterred fans of Sukesan Udon, who are often seen queuing outside the establishment.
Just over two weeks since its launch, the restaurant has maintained its popularity, leading many food lovers to wonder just how long they might have to wait for a table. An early March visit yielded significant wait times: on March 2, around 3 PM, the line stretched well beyond the entrance, wrapping its way to the parking lot. According to reports, customers were often left waiting close to an hour, particularly during peak dining hours.
On March 4, the situation appeared similar, as guests braved the cold morning for lunch, resulting once again in lines stretching back to the parking area as early as 11:30 AM. Indeed, the restaurant has quickly established itself as the place to be for udon enthusiasts. Interestingly, one evening, the author thought they might catch a break by visiting just before closing, at 10:30 PM on a snow-drenched night.
To their surprise, though the outdoor line was non-existent, inside the restaurant was buzzing with activity, as numerous diners held ticket numbers, awaiting their respective calls to be seated. After approximately 25 minutes and longing for the famous gobo tempura, the author finally sat down, experiencing firsthand the warmth of the udon bowl served late at night.
Fast forward to March 8. Despite frigid wind chills, dozens of seekers were still lining up before noon, reiterative of the restaurant's gripping allure. By 5 PM, another queue had formed, pushing once more down the stairs. The weekend only escalates the frenzy, with long wait times reported consistently.
Curiously, Sukesan Udon was originally announced to operate around the clock, but as of March 1, hours were adjusted to 6:00 AM to midnight, with the final entry allowed before 11:00 PM. Many diners have been caught off guard, thinking they could stroll in for late-night udon, only to realize the establishment’s adjusted rules. Signs at the entrance now clarify the lack of available parking, posing yet another hurdle for eager customers.
The restaurant occupies the space of what was once Jonathan’s family restaurant, which had parking facilities on the first floor. Since then, customers need to either rely on nearby coin parking facilities or opt for public transit to visit. While the location is touted to be just minutes away from Ryogoku Station and the National Sumo Hall, new visitors are advised to prepare for at least ten minutes of walking—an important detail not always emphasized online.
On March 9, just shy of the restaurant’s opening month’s conclusion, the crowds seem unlikely to dwindle anytime soon. The establishment not only serves noteworthy udon dishes, but it’s also made headlines recently by featuring on popular Japanese television programs, where it was celebrated as one of the must-try restaurants of the Kanto region. Highlights from these features underscored dishes such as the Karaage Nikugobo Udon, firmly placing Sukesan Udon Kinshicho at the forefront of the current dining scene.
Undoubtedly, Sukesan Udon has managed to weave itself seamlessly within the fabric of local dining culture, drawing newcomers and regulars alike with its delectable offerings. The establishment is now firmly on the radar of food enthusiasts and casual diners alike, exemplifying how the right mix of quality food and strategic marketing can create formidable momentum.
For those thinking of heading out to try Sukesan Udon Kinshicho, early mornings or late afternoons during weekdays appear the most promising for avoiding long waits. Still, frequent updates and vibrant discussions across social media indicate this gem is likely to remain popular for the foreseeable future.
With its official address at 2-16-2 Midori, Sumida, Tokyo, the restaurant also maintains standard operating days, remaining open year-round barring select holidays. It's important to note the environment surrounding the restaurant; it’s close to attractions where beautiful cherry blossoms will bloom soon, promising another layer of charm for visitors.
The future looks bright for Sukesan Udon, and enthusiasts are urged not to miss out on experiencing this temporary dining sensation, especially as the delicious “asa teishoku” and other tempting dishes await. The time for udon lovers to indulge is now.