London · Donburi · counter
Koya Soho
UdonUdonDashiDonburiSohoJapaneseWalk-inCounter DiningSeasonal
The original Koya — a Soho institution since 2010, where Shuko Oda's handmade udon and slow-drawn dashi set the standard for Japanese noodles in London.
- Price
- ¥¥
- Area
- Soho
- Since
- 2010
- Chef
- Shuko Oda
Plate № 660
About
Koya Soho opened in 2010, co-founded by Japanese chef Shuko Oda alongside Junya Yamasaki and John Devitt, introducing hand-pulled udon and carefully extracted dashi broths to London at a time when ramen dominated the conversation. Oda grew up between Japan, London and Los Angeles, and her deeply Japanese culinary sensibility informs every bowl — from the supple, handmade udon to the rotating blackboard specials that weave seasonal British produce into traditional forms. Junya Yamasaki has since returned to Japan, but Oda's stewardship of the Soho original remains the creative heart of the group. Walk-ins only, counter seating, and a pared-back aesthetic ensure the focus stays firmly on the food.
Why it's on Washoku Guide
- London's founding udon bar, established 2010 by Japanese chef-owner Shuko Oda
- Handmade udon and house-drawn dashi — a masterclass in Japanese noodle craft
- Daily-changing blackboard specials combining Japanese technique with British seasonality
- Iconic counter dining with walk-in-only format
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Frequently asked
About Koya Soho
- Is Koya Soho an authentic udon restaurant in London?
- Yes — Koya Soho is featured in Washoku Guide because it meets our authenticity standard for udon in London: a kitchen grounded in Japanese technique, ingredients and preparation consistent with Japanese practice, and a focused donburi format.
- Where is Koya Soho located?
- Koya Soho is located at 50 Frith Street, London W1D 4SQ, London, UK in the Soho neighborhood.
- Do I need a reservation at Koya Soho?
- Koya Soho does not publish an online reservation link. Walk-ins may be possible, but for popular donburi restaurants in London we recommend calling ahead.
- What is the price range at Koya Soho?
- Koya Soho sits in the ¥¥ price range — typical for udon of this format in London.
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