On April 24, Sukesan Udon, the beloved udon chain from Kyushu, made its much-anticipated Tokyo debut, leaving food enthusiasts thrilled. Positioned prominently in Ryogoku, this restaurant marks the first of its kind within the capital, and excitement was palpable as crowds began forming well before opening hours.
According to Skylark Holdings, which acquired Sukesan last year, the ambiance outside was electric. Early arrivers, some waiting since the night prior, reported seeing lines of up to 170 eager customers by the time the doors opened at 10 AM. "I wanted to be first because I was waiting for this opening," said one enthusiastic diner who traveled from Chiba to be among the first patrons.
Customers streamed through the doors as staff greeted them with cheery voices, calling out, "Sukesan Udon, last line is here!" The internal setup includes 105 seats, combining counter spaces and booth arrangements to cater to both lone diners and families alike. The restaurant’s signature dishes, featuring the much-loved 'Nikugoboten Udon', priced at 790 yen, quickly began flying off the menu.
One satisfied visitor from Ota City remarked, "I came to visit because I loved this flavor back at my university," reflecting the nostalgia many feel toward the chain’s offerings. The atmosphere managed to strike the perfect balance of familiarity and new experience, making it appealing for locals and tourists alike.
Chairman Haruyoshi Sakita expressed optimism about the restaurant's future within the busy metropolis. "We aim to expand from Kyushu to the whole of Japan. This location is just the beginning," he stated, hinting at additional openings planned for the greater Tokyo area, including plans for another store in Adachi Ward.
This ambitious expansion reflects Sukesan’s strategy to tap urban dining trends, particularly focusing on quick, casual meals appealing to both busy professionals and families. With Tokyo being home to many dining options, the competition is fierce, yet there’s optimism rooted in the local support and established taste profiles the brand brings with it.
Contrary to traditional perceptions of udon dining, the Ryogoku location was crafted to entice city dwellers seeking convenience without sacrificing flavor or quality. The restaurant is poised for significant interest, strategically located about 10 minutes on foot from the nearby Ryogoku Station. Initially set for round-the-clock operation, it's currently limited to 6 AM to midnight due to adjustments and renovations.
Around the restaurant, the streets were filled with customers capturing the moment. Photography was prominent as groups gathered outside the establishment, making the most of their lunch hours and savoring the launch atmosphere. "It was said to be the highest level (of customer line) ever for Sukesan," reported representatives from Skylark.
With plans to advance beyond Ryogoku, the company's goals include not just reaching more parts of Tokyo but also venturing out to neighboring prefectures like Saitama. The aim remains rooted firmly within the family dining sector, but there's also recognition of the growing demand for options, including alcoholic beverages, for evening clientele.
This latest site has been dubbed as the stepping stone for future growth within Japan’s capital, and its success could pave the way for more urban locations. The competitive terrain filled with local vendors and established chains such as Marugame Seimen signifies formidable challenges. Still, the company’s focus on solidifying their presence within this sector is evident.
Plans to maintain quality and the original taste of their iconic dishes remain intact through this expansion—a promise made by Sukesan to keep the love for their cuisine alive throughout Japan. Haruyoshi Sakita reflected on this sentiment when he stated, "We want as many local people as possible to enjoy our food,” echoing sentiments of nostalgia, quality, and community.
The growth strategy likely signals not only success for Sukesan but also reinforces the shifting dining trends seen across Urban Japan. With the right attentiveness and community engagement, there's potential not just for sustaining the brand's legacy but for fostering it in completely new settings.
''Could the streets of Tokyo become the new home for flavors traditionally associated with Kyushu?'' The answer seems to be positively poised, as Sukesan Udon kicks off what could be its most exciting chapter yet.