While ramen has become a familiar sight across Cardiff, there’s only one place in the city dedicated entirely to Japan’s other much-loved noodle dish.
Tucked away on Penarth Road in Grangetown, Hatsu Udon has quietly built a loyal following by focusing on one thing and doing it exceptionally well: authentic Japanese udon noodles made fresh every single day.
What makes Hatsu stand out is the level of precision that goes into every bowl. The restaurant imported a specialist noodle-making machine directly from Japan, allowing the team to produce fresh udon noodles on site daily using traditional techniques.
Once made, the noodles are cooked for exactly 12 minutes, before being plunged into cold water to achieve the perfect texture and signature chew that authentic udon is known for. It’s a process that takes time, patience and consistency, but the results speak for themselves.
The menu centres around these freshly made noodles, served in rich broths, curries and traditional Japanese dishes. Whether you opt for a simple bowl of udon, a warming curry version or one topped with beef, tempura or crispy chicken, the noodles remain the star of the show.
Alongside the udon, diners can also enjoy Japanese favourites including gyoza, karaage chicken, which have been marinaded in soy and cooked in tempura, all served in a relaxed setting just minutes from Cardiff city centre.
The restaurant itself feels refreshingly authentic. Rather than chasing trends, Hatsu focuses on traditional preparation, quality ingredients and attention to detail. Every bowl is carefully prepared, with the same commitment to technique that has made udon bars such an important part of Japanese food culture.
As Cardiff’s food scene continues to evolve, Hatsu Udon offers something genuinely different. For anyone looking to go beyond ramen and discover another side of Japanese cuisine, this Grangetown hidden gem is well worth seeking out.
📍 Hatsu Udon, Penarth Road, Grangetown, Cardiff
