Udon St Marks

- 11 St Marks Pl, New York, NY 10003

In the vibrant and ever-bustling landscape of St. Marks Place, Udon St Marks stands out as a cherished gem for lovers of authentic Japanese comfort food. This restaurant is a true specialist, dedicating its craft to the art of udon, those thick, chewy wheat noodles that are a staple of Japanese cuisine. More than just a simple noodle shop, Udon St Marks offers a unique and intimate dining experience that feels both cozy and trendy, making it a favorite among New Yorkers who appreciate a no-frills, high-quality meal.

From the moment you walk in, the atmosphere is inviting and personal. The small, clean interior, which includes a bar that overlooks the kitchen, provides a rustic charm. Here, you can watch the chefs prepare your meal with care and precision, a testament to the fresh, made-to-order nature of their food. It’s a spot that has built a loyal following over the years, with customers often returning time and again for their favorite bowls and a slice of comforting normalcy in the city that never sleeps. While some may find it a bit "overrated" at times, many, especially those who have been frequenting it for years, find it to be a near and dear part of their culinary journey in New York.

Udon St Marks is conveniently located at 11 St Marks Pl, New York, NY 10003. This prime location in the East Village makes it easily accessible for college students, locals, and tourists alike. The neighborhood is a hub for Japanese food and culture, and Udon St Marks fits right in with its authentic offerings and casual vibe. Getting there is straightforward via public transportation, with the Astor Place subway station (6 train) and the 8th Street-NYU station (N, R, W trains) both just a short walk away.

One thing to note about Udon St Marks is its popularity. The restaurant often has a wait, especially during peak hours for lunch and dinner. This is a clear indicator of its delicious food and fast service. The restaurant offers flexible dining options, including dine-in, takeout, and delivery, so you can enjoy their comforting noodles wherever you are. For those planning to dine in, the small interior and bar-style seating make it a perfect spot for solo diners or small groups, though larger parties may find it a tight squeeze.

Udon St Marks focuses on a refined selection of services and a menu that highlights the best of udon and tempura.

• Specialized Udon Menu: The heart of the restaurant's offerings is its selection of hot udon noodle soups. The menu features a variety of delicious options, from the Classic Nabeyaki Udon Noodle Soup to the spicy Chige Udon. For meat lovers, there is the Niku Udon (beef), while vegetarians can enjoy the Veggie-Ten Udon. The Tempura Combo, which comes with a large bowl of udon and a platter of perfectly fried tempura, is a highly recommended favorite.

• Tempura and Comfort Food: In addition to udon, the restaurant offers an array of tempura, including Ebi-Ten (shrimp tempura) and Ika-Ten (squid tempura). These items are perfect as a side dish or as part of a combo platter, providing a satisfying and crispy contrast to the soft noodles.

• Beverage and Bar Service: The restaurant has a bar onsite and offers a selection of beverages, including alcohol and beer, to complement your meal.

• Flexible Service Options: Whether you want to dine in and enjoy the cozy atmosphere, grab a quick takeout order, or have your meal delivered, Udon St Marks makes it easy to get your udon fix.

Udon St Marks has several key features that contribute to its unique character and popularity among locals.

• Fast and Efficient Service: One of the major highlights is the fast service. Despite the a wait at times, once you're seated, the food comes out quickly and is made fresh to order, making it an excellent spot for a quick bite.

• Intimate and Cozy Atmosphere: The interior is described as casual, cozy, and trendy. The bar seating allows you to watch the chefs work, which adds a rustic and engaging element to the dining experience. The presence of a coat rack and bag hooks under the bar shows a thoughtful consideration for customer comfort in a small space.

• Affordable and Great Value: Udon St Marks is known for being relatively inexpensive, with dishes that offer generous portions and high quality for a reasonable price. This makes it a go-to spot for college students and anyone on a budget.

• Cash-Only Policy: A key feature to remember is that this establishment is cash-only. This policy is a bit of a throwback and a detail that adds to its no-frills, authentic charm.

• Cleanliness and Restroom: The restaurant is praised for its cleanliness, including the restroom, which is a significant plus in a busy city.

For more information or to inquire about their menu, you can contact Udon St Marks directly.

Address: 11 St Marks Pl, New York, NY 10003, USA

Phone: (646) 386-7057

Remember to have cash on hand for your visit.

So, what is it about Udon St Marks that makes it a place "worth coming back to"? The answer lies in its ability to deliver a perfect blend of quality, value, and atmosphere. While some may critique the firmness of the noodles or the oiliness of the tempura, a great number of patrons rave about the food, with dishes like the Tempura Combo being a consistent favorite. The udon is served with a rich, flavorful soup, and the fresh, crisp tempura provides a delightful contrast. The ability to customize your meal with condiments and spice flakes at the table further enhances the dining experience, allowing you to tailor the flavors to your liking.

Beyond the food itself, Udon St Marks offers a genuine piece of the East Village's culinary heart. It’s a place that has been serving the community for years, creating fond memories for people who have grown up in the city. The cozy, lively, and unpretentious atmosphere is a breath of fresh air compared to more formal dining establishments. It’s the kind of spot where you can get a perfectly satisfying meal that is both comforting and affordable. The cash-only policy, while a minor inconvenience for some, contributes to its rustic, small-business charm. For those looking for a quick, delicious, and authentic Japanese meal that feels like a warm hug on a cold day, Udon St Marks is an absolute must-try. It's a place that earns its reputation not with flashy marketing, but with honest, good food and a heartfelt dedication to its craft.

Udon St Marks

11 St Marks Pl, New York, NY 10003, USA