Yamamoto Menzo is the first name that comes to mind when one thinks of udon restaurants in Kyoto. Many people come from far and wide to enjoy the chewy, elastic noodles and the strong flavor of the broth. Since the restaurant is located near some of the city's most popular tourist spots, especially during the tourist season, it is best to call ahead to make a reservation before visiting the restaurant. There is also a take-out store near the restaurant, so you can enjoy udon noodles under the blue sky.

Founded in 1940, Kyo Udon Ikusoba Okakita continues to make udon noodles using only the finest ingredients, including buckwheat flour from the foot of Mount Hakusan in Ishikawa Prefecture. The dashi (broth) that is the core of Kyo udon is made using the techniques the founder learned during his 17 years of training, and it has a fine taste that brings out the full flavor of the ingredients. The ten-tomizushi udon is a bowl of thin, glossy, firm udon noodles tossed with a generous amount of egg and flavored with the broth.

In addition to homemade udon and soba, the restaurant is strongly particular about its ingredients, using only carefully selected Rishiri kelp and vegetables for its broth. The reason for her insistence on ingredients is that the proprietress, Misuzu, takes the health of her customers seriously. You can enjoy udon noodles that will warm your heart as well as your body. The prices are so reasonable that you will want to come back every day, and your pocketbook will be warmed as well.

Curry udon is a popular menu item at Kyoto Gion Okaru, which is frequented by celebrities. The soup is made by adding spices to the delicious seafood broth, and the toppings of your choice, such as cheese, tempura, and deep-fried tofu, are also appealing. Open until late at night, it is the perfect place to finish off a night of drinking.

Meidai Omen Ginkakuji Honten is located not far from Ginkakuji Temple. Omen is a local dish of Gunma Prefecture that is tsukemen-style with plenty of condiments. The dipping sauce, which is the key to the flavor, is made from carefully selected ingredients, including several kinds of Japanese shavings purchased from a shavings store in Kyoto. Enjoy the rich aroma of Japanese wheat noodles, which are carefully pounded by artisans, with the dipping sauce made with ingredients from Kyoto.