01 / ABOUT THE PLACE
About this place
The citrus aroma rising with the steam from the bowl stirs the appetite before the first bite. Among the house favourites at Sakura-an, tucked away in Hirano Miyanishicho in Kyoto's Kita Ward, is yuzu ankake udon. Here, the refreshing scent and tang of yuzu citrus are infused into a piping-hot, thickened dashi broth that clings closely to tender, slender noodles—a nourishing bowl you will want to finish down to the last drop. Choosing the yuzu keiran udon adds gently beaten egg, bringing a soft sweetness and an even rounder, comforting texture.
Spicy Broths and Mushrooms: Warming Combinations
Alongside the refreshing yuzu offerings, the shop's original spicy ankake series has earned its own following. In the spicy keiran udon, a lively piquancy melts into the fluffy egg-drop broth, creating a savory depth that lingers pleasantly. The menu also showcases creative takes that make the most of the dashi, such as the spicy mushroom ankake udon loaded with shimeji, enoki, and maitake (3 mushroom varieties in all), as well as variations topped with cheese to introduce an extra layer of richness.
Chilled Noodles and Savory Rice Sides
On warmer days, noodles chilled and tightened in cold water offer a crisp, refreshing alternative. Dishes like yuzu zaru udon and yuzu chilled kitsune udon pair cold broth with citrus acidity to complement the smooth, easy glide of the noodles. For a heartier meal, small side bowls of rice fit neatly alongside: chirimen sansho gohan, fragrant with Japanese pepper, and chirimen togarashi gohan, lively with chili heat. Both can be enjoyed on their own or mixed into any leftover warm ankake broth.
Inside, a counter and several tables fill the compact dining area with a calm, unhurried feel. Open from late morning through late afternoon, the shop offers a convenient stop for lunch or an early evening bite while visiting nearby Hirano Shrine or Kitano Tenmangu Shrine.
