Uzumakiya Udon Izakaya

Our server was really nice and the food was pretty good. I liked how the server was honest about what he recommended (and didn't recommend). Next time I'll probably get the regular ox tail udon instead of the tantan one though because I preferred the broth in my friend's. The tantan one mostly just tasted like mala to me. The chicken karaage and calamari were both good.

The food use to be better. Maybe it was the plastic containers they served us in or placebo but the ramen didn't seem to be served at my prefered temperature due to either it sitting out for a bit or the plastic bowl not being able to handle the heat. They adhere to covid restrictions very well and we were comfortable sitting inside. Still a good place to eat but only if you're in the area.

I genuinely don’t understand the hype of this place. They are using plastic disposable bowls, teetering dangerously on metal saucers, to serve you a small portion of noodle soup (with only one bok choy leaf ☹️), which tastes just okay. The ox tail is good. But the broth is extremely salty and in my opinion tastes adjacent to an instant soup packet. Maybe you can come once to try it, but not worth a re-visit for me at this price point.

Came here on a strong recommendation from a friend who lives in the bay area. The best place for unique Udon and the Chicken Karaage would be Uzumakiya. It is definitely something to write home about. The Oxtail Udon is a must try. Yes, when you receive it, the bowl looks small and the ingredients appear to be lacking. But it's the ratio of the Udon to ingredients plus the rich and flavorful broth that balances out so well. The Chicken Karaage is one of the best I've had in the bay and close to the ones I've eaten in Japan. The Karaage is filling, so do share of you order it. Service is great and price is decent. This is a must try.