World famous Marugame Udon is finally opening it’s Downtown Vancouver location on Saturday, February 24th, 2024. The new 80-seat restaurant, located at 589 Beatty Street, will be open seven days a week, serving delectable Sanuki-style udon noodles, tempura, and rice bowls for lunch and dinner from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. This is Marugame Udon’s first Canada location and it’s 263rd location overseas location. There will be a special promotion on February 24th where every bowl purchased will receive a complimentary serving of Marugame’s renowned tempura. Check out my full Marugame Udon Downtown Vancouver review below!
Marugame Udon Downtown Vancouver – Udon, Rice Bowls and Tempura
Marugame Udon is known world-wide for its made-to-order Sanuki-style udon, which is a specific type of udon noodle originating from Japan’s Kagawa Prefecture, formerly known as the Sanuki region. Sanuki-style udon is one of the most popular and well-known udon varieties in Japan. The noodles are distinctly thick, chewy, and slightly firm. The menu is small but tight with all the most popular dishes that Marugame is known for.
The Nikutama Udon features sweet flavoured beef, onsen egg and BK sauce. The udon is slippery (in a good way) with a great chew. I love that it comes out pipping hot and the efficiency is unmatched. You place your order and it’s dishes up in a matter of seconds.
Before you come for me for ordering rice (someone has to so we can review it!). The Chicken Katsu Curry Don features crispy chicken katsu in a curry sauce over rice. The curry is a nice mild Japanese curry that pairs perfectly with the rice and the crispy chicken. There is a Udon version as well, and I think both would be equally delicious depending on if you’re feeling rice or noodles.
The Gyu Don is essentially their Nikutama Udon but with rice and served with an onsen egg. This was good, but I think next time I’ll definitely get it as an udon. I like the chew of the noodles more, the rice was on the mushier side for me. The rice texture was more noticeable as there wasn’t a thick curry sauce on top.
Worth a Try?
Yes! The pricing was incredibly reasonable (I was expecting Motonobu pricing), especially for Downtown Vancouver. Nothing is over $14 and it’s really conveniently located. There’s lots of seating and I can see this spot being incredibly popular. The line moves quick and it’s really a great option for an office lunch if you’re in a hurry or if you don’t have much time. Definitely give this spot a try the next time you’re in Downtown Vancouver or if you’re craving good comforting Japanese food.
Marugame Matsuri
Marugame Udon will be celebrating its first Canadian restaurant location at 589 Beatty Street in Vancouver on Friday, March 15 at 10:45 a.m. Dubbed Marugame Matsuri, the event will showcase live entertainment, special guests, and, of course, Marugame’s renowned udon and tempura delicacies.
A Matsuri is a traditional festival that plays a significant role in Japanese culture, bringing communities together to celebrate and enjoy shared traditions. The Marugame Matsuri is a tribute to the warm reception and overwhelming support from the local community. To express their gratitude to the people of Vancouver, the first 100 customers will receive one complimentary bowl of Marugame’s signature Sanuki-style udon of their choice.
At the Marugame Matsuri, attendees will have the chance to meet and engage with the passionate Marugame Udon team, delving into the rich history, inspiration, and highlights behind the beloved brand. Immerse yourself in Japanese culture through captivating Taiko drumming performances, offering a glimpse into the rhythmic heartbeat of Japan. Savour the authentic flavours of udon and tempura, meticulously prepared by Marugame’s skilled noodle masters, providing a true taste of Japanese culinary excellence.
Additionally, attendees will have the opportunity to interact with distinguished guests, including Victor Hisao Misawa, President of Marugame Udon International; Councillor Sarah Kirby-Yung from the City of Vancouver; and Consul General Keiji Hisata from the Embassy of Japan, accompanied by Economic Consul Kenji Hisata.
Marugame Udon
Address: 589 Beatty Street, Vancouver, B.C. V6B 6A3
Website: https://ca.marugame.com/