pop_o
I visited "Sanukiya" in Koenji, where I have been a regular for about 15 years. From the outside, it looks like a typical udon restaurant, but inside, it is surprisingly elegant and slightly upscale for Koenji. I have been a customer since the previous owner, and I remember when the new owner, the son, became a certified sake sommelier and started pairing sake with the dishes about 10 years ago. For first-time visitors, I recommend the course menu (¥4,290 tax included). Today, I ordered a la carte! (see photos) Foie gras chawanmushi ¥800, Tofu with egg yolk sauce and truffle essence ¥800, Lotus root tempura ¥500, Asparagus tempura ¥500, Miyazaki beef sushi ¥1,000, Miyazaki beef seared sushi ¥1,840, Cream udon with maitake mushrooms ¥1,380. The portions are small so I recommend ordering extra. The foie gras chawanmushi used to come in a glass but now it is served in a lovely ceramic dish. The truffle tofu came in a glass. Fifteen years ago, I was amazed by how luxurious it was, and now more restaurants are offering similar dishes. The "maitake cream udon" that I have been enjoying for 15 years is excellent! It can rival the udon meccas in Osaka like "Kisuke," "Takeuchi Udon," and "Hyakuan." However, the price is ¥1,380, while chicken tempura in Osaka is around ¥800. There is a difference in price... However, this restaurant's style and flavor are unique, different from the typical Sanuki udon. I am thrilled that it has finally been recognized as one of the "Top 100 Udon Restaurants in Kanto."