Koya Ko Hackney: A Must-Visit Spot for Authentic Udon in London
Located just off Broadway Market, Koya Ko Hackney is a charming, self-serve udon spot serving Japanese dishes in a cozy and casual setting. Though it’s a bit of a walk from the nearest stations (10 minutes from Cambridge Heath, 15 minutes from Bethnal Green), the promise of rich, flavourful udon makes the journey worthwhile.
This is the first restaurant I’ve come across that exclusively serves udon, offering a wide selection with options for hot (with soup) or cold (dry, without soup) noodles.
Experience
Walking into Koya Ko, you’re immediately welcomed by the mouthwatering aroma of simmering broth and freshly cooked udon. The setup is simple: order at the counter or on the self-service screens, grab your buzzer, and find a seat. Seating is quite limited, and the space inside is tight, but there’s an outdoor area perfect for warmer days.
The service is minimal, as expected from a self-serve establishment. Water is available at the front, and since you’re doing most of the work yourself, there’s no service charge added to the bill. It’s a walk-in only spot, so be prepared for a potential wait during peak hours.
Food & Flavours
Hot Udon – KO Meaty (£16.10)
This dish featured slow-braised beef in a warm, comforting broth. The soup was hearty, rich, and packed with umami flavours. The portion of beef was just right, adding depth to every spoonful. Perfect for a chilly day or when you’re craving something deeply satisfying.
Cold Udon – Hiyashi KO Meaty (£16.10)
Despite the “cold udon” label, this dish was more of a dry-style noodle. I personally prefer this style as it allows the noodles to absorb the flavours better. Hidden beneath a heap of chives was a generous portion of tender, braised beef. The hint of chili oil added a touch of heat without overpowering the dish—just enough to enhance the flavours rather than overpower it.
Karaage Chicken (£6.20)
The small karaage portion was a delightful side. It had a crispy exterior reminiscent of Taiwanese-style fried chicken, with just the right balance of seasoning. Each bite was flavourful, and the crispiness held up well without being overly greasy.
Price & Value
Koya Ko sits comfortably in the mid-range price bracket, with dishes typically costing between £10 – £20. While some might consider it slightly pricey for a casual, self-serve spot, the quality of ingredients and flavours justify the cost. Plus, without a service charge, you get excellent value for the portion sizes.
Final Thoughts
Koya Ko Hackney is a solid choice for udon lovers. The self-service model keeps things casual, and while seating is limited, the food more than makes up for it. Whether you’re in the mood for hot, comforting soup or a refreshing cold noodle dish, this spot delivers on both taste and authenticity.
If you’re in Hackney and craving udon, Koya Ko is definitely worth a visit!
Details:
- Location: 10 Broadway Market Mews, London E8 4TS
- Opening Hours: Mon – Thu: 12PM – 10PM; Fri – Sat: 10AM – 10PM; Sun: 10AM – 9:30PM
- Price Range: £10 – £20
- Walk Ins Only so no reservations
- There’s indoor and outdoor seating
- Menu also has some Vegan options
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