UK InsightFul
Discover Marugame Udon Canary Wharf, a vibrant Japanese restaurant serving fresh handmade udon noodles and crispy tempura. Learn about the menu, location, hours, tips, and FAQs in this complete guide.
Introduction
If you’re craving authentic Japanese cuisine in the heart of London’s financial district, look no further than Marugame Udon Canary Wharf. Known for its fresh, handmade udon noodles and crispy tempura, this lively eatery has become a go-to spot for locals and visitors alike. Located on the Upper Level 2 of Cabot Place, Marugame Udon offers a delicious blend of traditional Japanese flavors and fast-casual dining, perfect for lunch breaks or relaxed dinners.
What is Marugame Udon Canary Wharf?
It’s a Japanese noodle restaurant specializing in udon—thick wheat noodles served in a rich kake-dashi broth—paired with a variety of crispy tempura and rice bowls. Open daily from 11:00 AM to 10:00 PM, it caters to both quick eaters and leisurely diners.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about Marugame Udon Canary Wharf, from the menu highlights and ordering tips to comparisons with other noodle restaurants.
Why Choose Marugame Udon Canary Wharf?
Marugame Udon stands out for its commitment to fresh, hand-made noodles crafted daily on-site. Unlike many fast-food Japanese options that use pre-packaged noodles, Marugame’s chefs prepare each udon noodle from scratch, ensuring the perfect chewy texture and rich flavor. Their signature kake-dashi broth is simmered for hours, bringing an authentic umami depth that complements the noodles beautifully.
The crispy tempura, including prawn, sweet potato, and pumpkin croquettes, is fried to golden perfection, adding texture contrast to the soft noodles. Plus, the restaurant’s convenient location in Canary Wharf makes it accessible for busy professionals and shoppers.
Location and Ambience
Marugame Udon Canary Wharf is located at Upper Level 2, Cabot Place, Canary Wharf, London E14 4QT. This prime spot within The Atrium Kitchen offers a lively, open-kitchen atmosphere where you can watch chefs expertly handcraft your meal.
The restaurant’s modern, minimalist design uses light wood paneling and noodle-inspired lighting fixtures, creating a cozy yet energetic environment. It’s a perfect escape for a quick lunch or casual dinner in one of London’s busiest business districts.
Menu Highlights Udon Noodles, Tempura & More
Udon Bowls
The menu features a variety of udon bowls that cater to different tastes:
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Beef Nikutama Udon: Tender beef with poached egg in savory broth
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Chicken Katsu Curry Udon: Crispy chicken cutlet served with flavorful Japanese curry
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Kake Udon: Classic udon in clear, simple broth for purists
Tempura Selection
Tempura at Marugame Udon is a must-try. Each piece is hand-battered and fried to crispy perfection:
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Prawn Tempura
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Sweet Potato Tempura
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Pumpkin Croquettes
Rice Bowls & Sides
Complement your noodles with rice bowls like Chicken Teriyaki Rice or sides such as gyoza and karaage for a fuller meal. They also offer vegan-friendly options, covering about 30% of the menu.
How to Order at Marugame Udon Canary Wharf
Marugame Udon operates a fast-casual ordering system where you select your udon base, toppings, and sides before paying at the counter. For convenience, they also provide a Click & Collect service, allowing you to order online and pick up your meal without waiting in line.
If you’re dining in, don’t miss the chance to watch the noodles being made fresh—it’s part of the dining experience!
Pricing and Value
One of Marugame Udon’s biggest appeals is its affordability. Most dishes are priced under £10, offering excellent value given the quality and freshness of the ingredients. This makes it an attractive lunch option for Canary Wharf’s working crowd and anyone seeking a budget-friendly Japanese meal.
Comparison Marugame Udon vs Other Japanese Noodle Restaurants
Compared to other Japanese noodle chains in London like Wagamama or Itsu, Marugame Udon offers a more specialized experience focused on udon noodles. While Wagamama serves a broader pan-Asian menu, Marugame excels in delivering authentic udon and tempura with a traditional touch.
Additionally, the hand-made noodles and broth preparation differentiate it from competitors relying on pre-packaged ingredients. For those seeking genuine Japanese noodle craftsmanship, Marugame Udon is a superior choice.
Practical Tips for Visiting Marugame Udon Canary Wharf
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Go early or late: Avoid peak lunch hours (12:30 PM–2:00 PM) for faster seating.
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Try the tempura combo: Pair your udon with a tempura platter for the full experience.
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Customize your bowl: Add extra toppings like scallions, tempura flakes, or chili for more flavor.
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Use Click & Collect: Save time during busy hours by ordering ahead online.
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Vegan-friendly options: Don’t hesitate to ask staff for vegan or gluten-free alternatives.
Conclusion
For anyone searching for authentic, fresh Japanese noodles in London, Marugame Udon Canary Wharf is a standout destination. With handmade udon noodles, rich kake-dashi broth, and crispy tempura served in a modern, vibrant setting, it offers a delightful culinary experience without breaking the bank. Whether you’re grabbing a quick lunch or enjoying a casual dinner, this restaurant delivers consistent quality and flavor.
Next time you’re near Canary Wharf, treat yourself to a bowl of expertly crafted udon and enjoy a true taste of Japan right in London’s bustling financial hub.
Ready to try Marugame Udon Canary Wharf? Visit their official website or head to Upper Level 2, Cabot Place to experience it yourself!
FAQs About Marugame Udon Canary Wharf
1. What are the opening hours?
Marugame Udon Canary Wharf is open daily from 11:00 AM to 10:00 PM.
2. Is there seating available?
Yes, there is indoor seating on two floors, including casual tables and counter seats by the open kitchen.
3. Do they offer vegetarian or vegan dishes?
Yes, approximately 30% of the menu is vegan-friendly, including udon bowls and tempura.
4. Can I order takeaway or delivery?
They offer Click & Collect for takeaway. Delivery may be available via third-party apps, depending on location.
5. Is Marugame Udon wheelchair accessible?
Yes, the restaurant is wheelchair accessible with ramps and elevators within Cabot Place.
