HYPER LOCAL NAGOYA
Alright, buckle up for a quick ride to “Iwanoya“, a hidden gem of an udon joint near JR Tsurumai Station in Nagoya. Despite being just a 5-minute walk from the station, it’s tucked under a highway overpass and easy to miss. But fear not, intrepid foodies! We braved the bustling streets and declared it “lunchtime udon-kishimen mode” to check it out. Get ready for a glimpse of the ordinary lunch scene of ordinary folks in Nagoya, where local culture hides in unexpected places!
*Please note that the opinions expressed in this article are solely our own!
A quaint udon eatery rooted in the community.
Ah, yes, the classic “udon shop look.” There’s something about it that just screams “delicious.” Even though there may not be any specific standout features, you can always count on finding at least one of these unassuming, yet reliable, udon shops near your home. They have this strange ability to make you feel like you’ve been there before, even if it’s your first time. It’s that down-to-earth vibe that’s so unpretentious and delightful. It’s like finding comfort in the familiar embrace of a humble udon joint, where you can slurp your noodles in peace and leave with a happy tummy.
Enjoying a simple and quintessential Nagoya lunch.
Menu browsing? When you’re unsure of what to order at a udon restaurant you’ve never been to before, remember this password: “Kishimen!” It can’t go wrong! It’s the ultimate lunch choice for Nagoyans and a beloved soul food of Nagoya! Affordable, delicious, and quick. You can’t go wrong with kishimen set meal, even at a new place! Unlock the shop’s potential with a bowl of kishimen!
The kishimen at Iwanoya is the real deal – the taste is rich and flavorful, and the noodles are authentically flat like kishimen should be. The toppings are the classic ones you’d expect, and it all comes together in a cozy, home-cooked flavor that just warms your heart. And as if that weren’t enough, you even get a mini rice bowl set thrown in, so it’s a steal! Don’t hesitate, just slurp it up and feel the love.
If you’re feeling adventurous and want to stray from kishimen at a Nagoya udon joint, you absolutely have to try the city’s classic miso-nikomi udon. While Iwanoya’s take on it seems to be all the rage, there is a little secret – the “Shinoda udon” is a hidden gem that not many people know about. Perhaps due to its lack of impact, Shinoda udon may not have a strong presence and may not be widely recognized as a local specialty by the locals! But this bowl of simplicity in a clear broth is the perfect way to test the potential of any udon restaurant. Trust me, you won’t be disappointed – and who knows, you might just find a new favorite! Iwanoya’s Shinano udon also offers that authentic taste with a gentle and satisfying broth, and simple yet irresistible toppings.
This joint’s got it all: big portions, a diverse menu, and killer bang for your buck. I mean, talk about cost-effective deliciousness!
Iwanoya （岩野屋）
5 -21 Chiyoda, Naka Ward, Nagoya
