Marugame Udon

Third time eating here in 7 years and it still tasted as good as the first time. Meal is relatively cheap considering Hawaii and Waikiki prices, but very delicious. Order your udon first, tempura are self serve. Wait staff will guide you to an open table.

Amazing experience. The line moves quickly but can get extremely long at lunch and dinner time. The best time to come is between 2 - 4 pm. The Udon noodles are made fresh to order and the broth is savory and flavorful. The toppings and side dishes are tasty as well. The service is fast and friendly. Will definitely return!

This was the best meal I had on my 7 day vacation!!! ❤️ The noodles are so thick and just the right amount of chewy 🍜. The broth is so flavorful and the noodles soak it up! The tempura was crispy and fried to perfection 😋. The price is really good too. Everything was so good 💯! I recommend you go in the morning so you don't have to wait but if you do wait for dinner it is worth it!

Amazingly flavorful udan ramen. Must try the vegan tan tan. It was flavorful and spicy. Zucchini tempura was so fresh that we could crunch and munch on it. Amazingly organized place with self service. Restaurant is always full but with fast and floating crowd.

Broth with depth of flavour, noodles done perfectly and a broad selection of tempura. Overall a fantastic spot to go for your udon fix. It gets busy but the line moves fast. There appear to be a couple of tables out the back which are a lot quieter. Thought it was great but the tempura squid isn't. It's a chunk of imitation crab meat which I thought was odd.

The place gets packed every night, that tells you the food is good. You can see the udon being made on site. The broth is amazing! The staff are very nice, especially with tourists who cant decide on the spot. The ladies that clean the tables are also great. The bad thing and only bad thing is, the restroom is across the busy street in the international market.

Great authentic Udon noodles. We tried an assortment of dishes amongst the family, and they were delicious. I recommend getting the Fire Ball to spice up your meal. Fantastic place to see how they make their noodles from scratch, very entertaining. A must do if in Oahu!

Fresh udon noodles are amazing! There is usually always a line up the block but it moves quickly. If you come between lunch and dinner, the line is normally at it's shortest. The food is super fresh, and you order at a line up like a cafeteria. You can watch your for being prepared. Add on tempura sides for cheap. Very filling and the price is really good. Don't forget to try the BBQ sauce at the condiments counter. I highly recommend giving this place a try, you'll be back for sure.

There was a long queue at meal time.（but Not many people at four o'clock）All Udon Tastes good，Recommended

Great food! We were lucky to arrive when there was no line. Best noodles we've had. Would highly recommend.

These reviews undoubtedly speak for themselves. I have nothing but good things to say about this restaurant. It's always been a family favorite and it is always our first stop when we land on Oahu. If you don't go at peak meal hours, there is usually no line, otherwise you can expect to wait an hour +. We got there at around 3pm, walked right in and ordered our food immediately. We were presently surprised that they had new menu items this time with a new vegan dish and seasonal vegetables to add on as a side. I got my usual - traditional udon. I added a spicy bomb (which was also new) and also added on a side of their new seasonal vegetables. Of course, I had to get the Katsu chicken and multiple tempura vegetables. The food itself always is and was **chef's kiss**. I never expect anything different. We always leave satisfied, full and craving more. The food is top-tier, fast, delicious, and freshly made to order right in front of you. We need more of these on the mainland! But I'd definitely go broke if that was the case!

they operate fast and efficient , i gotta give it up to ALL the hard workers here. and don't let the line fool you, you prob waiting 20/30 tops. the tonkatsu was good and added the fire sauce to it for extra kick. the other popular one was a beef and it was good at first, but after eating while was way too sweet. only ate 1/3 of my bowl. the soda machine need a bit fixing because it didnt have much fizz in it. all in all im glad to have try this popular and OG udon spot.

When you visit Marugame Udon in Waikiki, be prepared for a line--sometimes even around the block! But don't worry, it moves fast, and you'll have your udon in no time. If you're in a hurry, you can also order online and pick it up to go. I went around 7pm on a Thursday and expected a bit of a wait, but the system runs smoothly. You follow the line, order your udon at the counter, grab some tempura if you want, check out, and then find a seat. It's a cozy spot, so a staff member will guide you to your table, either inside or in the shared outdoor area. As for the food, I went with the Nikutama udon, topped with tempura flakes and green onions. The noodles were fresh and had the perfect chew, and the sweet beef and boiled egg were a great touch. The sauce had a nice umami flavor without being too heavy. There's a decent selection of tempura with varying price ranges, so tonight I also grabbed a potato croquette and shrimp tempura--both were crispy, fresh, and lighter than typical fried food. Definitely don't skip the tempura dipping sauce! I've been here several times, and the food and service have always been consistent. It's not really a place for lingering after you eat, but I always come back when I'm craving a good bowl of udon.

The. Best. Udon. Noodles. Yeah, that's a bold statement, but it's true. I haven't found another place that can replicate the texture and freshness of Marugame's udon noodles. [Ambiance] Casual, cafeteria-style eatery in the middle of Waikiki. It's crowded, noisy, and packed with people. Staff members are constantly searching for tables to clean up which helps to keep the long line of customers moving. Speaking of lines, you can expect to always see one forming outside. Don't worry though, it moves pretty fast. [Food quality] Outstanding! The noodles are made fresh daily- you can actually see the process as soon as you walk in. The broth is also tasty. I always go for the Kake flavor because it's not a pork-based broth, and I also ask them for tempura flakes and green onions for extra flavor and texture. [Service] speedy and efficient. The staff is focused on serving people quickly; they are pleasant, but their main priority is to keep the line moving. Overall: 5-stars!

This place was really had to rate, because we didn't anything but the Udon. The Udon in our option was too sweet. I had the curry and it was ok, nothing I would go back for. It's a busy place and always packed with a line a block long, so it has to have some great options right? Next time we're in Waikiki, we will try all the sides to see if that is what makes this so popular. Decor-traditional, Asian vibe, with large windows that provide great lighting,Limited seating, but they move in and out pretty quickly so you won't wait long. Service-not much to say about their service, as they don't really speak much English from what I got. However, they were friendly and greeted us with a smile. Food-we were a bit under impressed, however, we did not try very manyoption options. Next time we will try everything except the udon, we were not crazy about the udon. I'm giving this place four stars because it was clean, staff had smiles on their face, and they were affordable.

It's a shame I don't have many good things to say about this place because I really love udon and was looking forward to trying this restaurant. My husband ordered 2 udons and a gyudon for pick up, and the pick up process was horribly disorganized and the service was dismissive and rude. Our order was ready by 5:15 pm but they ignored giving us our food until 5:30 pm, claiming that it wasn't ready but it was actually just at the bottom of the pile the whole time. By the time we got our food everything was lukewarm and soggy. Ironically, we even got a text at 5:40 pm that our food was ready for pick up, after we've already gotten it! What's the use of that? We also saw another woman complain that her food was wrongly given to another customer, and when the other customer returned with the order they had mistakenly picked up, the staff didn't apologize or care that they made a mistake and she left unhappily with cold food that may possibly have been tainted. Perhaps the biggest travesty of all this was that the food was incredibly mid. The udon was not chewy or springy at all, and the sweet beef was doused in some sort of sauce that was way too strong and also made the broth excessively sweet. They also don't have the soft boiled egg down, it's too undercooked and almost a raw egg. The only saving grace that makes this a 2 star instead of 1 star is that the prices are quite cheap especially considering it's Hawaii. Each udon was roughly ~$11 for a regular size and it can fill you up. Can't comment on the ambiance since we had a pick up order, but it was nice that there were public seats outside to eat your pick up order.

I'm not usually a big udon fan but these were super delicious! They're hand made fresh right in front of you. You wait in line, order your udon noodles and soup base, then self serve the tempura and sides you want. You pay then you seat yourself at the tables. There was a long line but it went super fast and the tables cleared up really quickly. The udon was great - the sides were basic and alright.

Believe it or not this was my first time coming here after driving past it for over a decade. I always see a long line. And this time I was looking for a place to have lunch. Told my friend hey I've always wanted to eat there. So we tried to find some parking nearby and went. The line wasn't very long. They had a whole bunch of different style udon soups. And lo and behold they have a vegan one with vegetarian meat. It was spicy and absolutely yummy. The noodles are made on Property. You can see them making them as you go through the line. You can get extra toppings if you want. It's kind of like a cafeteria style, after you grab your food. You get your utensils and find a seat. Servers were friendly and helpful. I will be back.

Omg this place is amazing!! So fun and casual. Super friendly and efficient service. Probably one of my favorite restaurants I have ever been to. We ate here in person 3 times and ordered takeout once from here in a 7 day trip to Waikiki! That right there shows our level of dedication, haha. I love the tempura crab stick, the tempura veggies and of course the udon. The chicken katsu was also delicious and my must have was the iced matcha. 11/10 I will definitely come here the next time I am able to visit Honolulu/Waikiki. This place is so good!!

One thing you should note is that Marugame will have a huge line, especially for dinner. However, the udon is great, and you can't go wrong with the nikutama. As a large chain, you can expect strong consistency across its restaurants, and this location is no different! I had the same experience here as the ones in the Bay Area, and that says a lot about Marugame and how they run things!

The lines can be discouraging. And it was. But it's worth it. I've been going to Oahu but never this place because of the lines. But finally I decide to go there BEFORE they open and got inside easily! That's the trick. Come for lunch! The setup is more of a cafeteria, self-serve station restaurant. After you get ur tray and bowls... you pay, then sit and enjoy your udon. The udon is so fresh! Handmade at its finest. I got their tonkotsu udon and it was surely delicious. Deserving of its most popular distinction. I also had their different tempuras which added that crunch and texture with the udon dish. The matcha and kalamansi juice are perfect too. No complaints. Just the waiting. But again this is great place! Yum!

This is a very popular place down in Waikiki. It's tucked away behind the International Marketplace and across the street. There is usually a very long line waiting to get in (it does move quick) but if you don't want to wait to eat inside the restaurant, there's a takeout window right next to the restaurant. There are also tables and chairs outside where you can sit and enjoy your food. The food is absolutely delicious and the food portions are quite hefty and filling. We ordered the beef gyūdon rice bowls, and the chicken katsu.10/10 will definitely come back.

When looking for something that won't break your wallet, but still serves a delicious meal, this is where everyone in Waikiki seems to dine. You will know this by the long line that forms outside. However, it is definitely worth the wait. The staff inside does a great job making sure patrons find a table and also are very prompt at cleaning tables as soon as they are available, so it does flow pretty smoothly. I'm going to get straight to the point -- the food was fast, filling, and flavorful! To make things move quickly, be sure to view the menu while waiting in line so that you'll be ready to order at the counter. It's an open kitchen and you'll see how fast everyone works to get your udon bowl ready. Ours took literally 30 seconds, more or less. Then once you place your bowls on the tray, you also have the fun option to select from a variety of tempura, priced per piece. Just like at a cafeteria, you eventually move down the line to pay for your food at the cashier. We ordered the following: Nikutuma, Tonkatsu, Curry Nikutuma, and TanTan along with different types of Tempura. Great concept and amazing food that is worth the wait and cost. 5/5 stars hands down!

Reminds me of udon in Japan. On my latest trip, I went to Marugame three times for lunch. The sweet beef is great, and I love Kitsune (fried tofu). The tofu is a savory sweet tofu and doesn't taste overly fried. They serve tempuras, and a spam musubi, they're also very good. I would recommend for everyone to try it at least once when visiting. This location can super busy, especially during dinners and weekends. I suggest going early, before 11:30am for lunch, and before dinner time. If you don't see a big line, get in the line. The line can go down the block. The seating area is limited, but it does move along, and the worker tries to help when it's busy. This is not a place to sit and chat for an hour so please be considerate to those waiting for tables.

DO NOT be discouraged from the long line. They have mastered getting everyone through in a timely manner. You basically pick your flavor and then there's a station you can add on any sides. There is a worker who navigates where people can sit, they are efficient. I got the Nikutama ramen. The broth was flavorful and the sweet beef was delicious. It is a little bit sweeter but it was still savory. The noodles... omg were delicious. Everything paired well with one another. We also got to try the Tonkotsu. It's more on the creamier side but it is always a classic. Must get the tempura crab it's huge! The potato croquettes were also good. Crispy and had a little bit of a sweeter taste than I expected. I wish I could have tried more of their sides they had available but I knew I was going to be too full! This place is a must if you are ever visiting Waikīkī!

Can confirm this location is better than some of the ones on the mainland! Don't know what's different outside maybe the water or maybe the aloha spirit! :) However be prepared for a wait because it does draw a huge crowd however the line does move quickly. I decided to try the curry soup base and the taste was well balanced-rich, thick, and mildly spicy. The udon noodles were was very pleasant balance between firm, chewy, and 100% slurppable. The staff prepping the food are attentive and the table buser help you find seating because of the business of the restaurant. Would definitely come back!

As you reach the kitchen, the lunch lady asks what you would like to order and your bowl of udon is put together at that very moment right before your eyes. Next is self serving side tempura and musubi items. Then the challenge of finding a table. An aggressive older man is actually most helpful in pointing you to an open spot or will hurry to clear a table once customers stand from their chairs. A bit grungy, somewhat expected from the thousands of tourists that visit just for lunch each day. It is most difficult to sit and enjoy each bite with the waiting line staring at you. Can be the fastest bowl of noodles you will eat. 30 minutes line not too bad for the length and speed they push through, 5 minutes to prepare your bowl and pay, 10 minutes you are done swallowing your bowl. Visited twice and no matter how hard you try to sip your soup and chew your noodles, you are finished within 10 minutes again.

Great spot for a tasty bowl of noodles. I came on a Saturday night around 6:30 and it was about a 15 minute wait in line. The noodles can be seen being made from scratch by the kitchen staff while you wait in line. I enjoyed the beef curry Nikutama. The curry flavor was bold and blended perfectly with the beef, tasted great. The tempura was a little bit disappointing for me because it had lost its texture sitting under the heat lamp and was not really hot enough. Seating inside can be difficult to find and it kinda feels like a hectic cafeteria so it might be best to take your order to-go depending how you want to enjoy your meal.

Marugame udon!!! How I miss this place!!! I'm so glad that we got to come here and had delicious upon!!! The texture of udo is flavorful and beautiful chewiness! The broth is matched perfectly and orchestrated well in the mouth! I got a large bowl of bukkake (BK) udon with season eggs while my wife got tantan udon both are so delicious! If you'd like to have an amazing Japanese udon experience, a must come here for sure! It's definitely worth it. Besides what you mainly order, you can pick some toppings on the way to the cashier so you can make your bowl even fancier! Come visit and enjoy the Japanese gourmet and vibe! Cheers

UDON WANNA MISS OUT ON MARUGAME | i always find myself always curious about long lines. And the long line on Kuhio Ave for Marugame caught my eye. Udon made right before your eyes from start to finish is priceless - and worth the wait. Once we got inside, it was a scurry to decide what to order. After ordering at the counter and grabbing a tray, you get to watch them fill your bowl with broth, udon and any other meat/curry that you order. Select a la carte items like chicken Karaage, tempura and inari sushi for more variety in your meal. We loved Marugame so much we made sure to come again during our recent trip. The food is more affordable than most other sit down options in the area and also lighter than a full service meal, as the jet lag was definitely affecting our appetite toward the end of the night. Add this one to your list if you don't have access to a Marugame udon in your home city... and even if you do, this is still a great option for something lighter for your meal (or not, it's what you make of it!)

This is the OG Marugame we've been to and it's just as memorable as it was 10 years ago. We love their fresh udon noodles. It's self serve, you walk in and tell them what type of noodle bowl you want then make your way down the line of tempura fried foods. Pay at the end and find your own seat. The line moves quickly and all the employees are efficiently turning over tables. Hustle and bustle type of place. But oh so good.

Marugame always hits, and the Waikiki location lives up to the hype. Food: *I could eat both of these ALL day* - Curry Nikutama (5/5) - curry is delicious and savory, perfection. - Nikutama (5/5) - one of their best sellers for a reason! The broth is lighter and makes the meat and noodles really shine. I also love adding a piece of tempura to these dishes! Get them with ~all~ the toppi NG s, tempura crisps, green onion We did have to wait quite a bit, there's always a line outside, but it's because you wait for the food cafeteria style. Once you're up, taking orders and getting served is super quick. We waited about 30-40 min at prime dinner time.

This Marugame Udon location is just so good that I can't ever seem to pass up the opportunity to dine here whenever I'm in Waikiki. Sure they have locations elsewhere including in LA where I live, but the udon just seems a bit tastier and the tempura a little crispier here. My go-to here is the Dashi Broth, Beef...it's simple and classic like the description says and you can't go wrong with this. I also like getting the kitsune add on sometimes. All the tempura I've tried here is amazing and perfectly crisp, but my favorites are the shrimp tempura and the potato croquette. Don't be fooled by the line, they run an efficient operation and it moves quick. There also somehow always seems to be just enough seating. I've been coming here for years, and I'm sure for many more years to come. 5 stars all the way.

Super busy place and the long line can deter most people. It does move fairly quickly and once you get into the door, you can't help but to be pulled in with all of the activities happening in the open kitchen. You order the udon then walk along the line where you can pick out an array of side dishes and fried goodies. Prices are very reasonable for an eatery in the heart of Waikiki.

I've been coming to this place for the last decade and am shocked that the price of the kake udon (the most basic of the soups--just broth and noodles) has only increased $1!!!! $4.95 when I first got it in 2015 ish and only $5.95 in 2024! For that reason alone I will very happily continue to support this business. I think the noodles and broth here taste better than any of the mainland locations. I've been to the one in LA and the new location they opened in Tukwila, WA, and this one is def the best. Could totally be location bias at play but that doesn't detract from how great this location is. All the employees are always really friendly, and the long line moves relatively quickly. I highly recommend getting a shrimp tempura and the crab meat tempura with your udon because the tempura+udon combo hitsss.

Great fast and casual place! I ordered the Kitsune Udon, which was really good. The tofu was slightly sweet and it soaked up all of the flavor of the broth. I was pleasantly surprised with the broth, since most Japanese food tastes too salty for me... but this was just right. I felt like the portion was quite large for me, which made it worth the price. The next time I'm in Honolulu, I'll definitely be back.

This place gets really busy and the line is insanely long if you want to eat in. We ordered our food to go. It was made within 10 minutes. The broth was still hot when we got back to the hotel. Great portion on the noodles and broth. Noodles were soft and made fresh. The broth was a bit salty. The spicy level was not spicy at all.

Believe the hype! We waited in line about 20 minutes on Friday night about 7pm, when you walk in you're helped cafeteria style. Things move quickly so check the menus as you're in line to know what you want. We were worried about seating because it's so busy but tables are constantly moving so we were able to find a comfortable seat by the window. The restaurant is clean with lots of people working to keep it that way. We order the Tomkutsu with a few extra pieces of tempura. Everything was amazing. The udon noodles are so fresh! Top Tier and affordable, we both ate for under 40 dollars.

Marugame Udon was delicious! They make their udon in house. Located across the street from Target/International Market, we walked up and got into the queue. We were on PST flying in earlier in the day. It worked in our favor bc we arrived ~5p on a Wednesday with about 5/6 people lined out the door. The line moved quickly as service is cafeteria style. You take a tray and order your udon first. It is handed to you at the next station and then move onto the self serve fry bar including a variety of fries items such as tempura, gyoza, croquette, and musubi. Once you pay there are ladies who direct you to a table. The food was quite good. The udon had a nice chew. I got the curry udon, sweet potato, shrimp and surimi tempura, gyoza, and a croquette. The curry was smooth and light, tempura was light but would have been better if freshly fried, and gyoza & croquette were yummy. They are very efficient getting folks through the line and eating at a table. Sauce and utensils are self serve next to the cashier area. And people seemed to be good about eating and leaving. The ordering system is a little bit pressured to moved along but the staff was friendly and efficient. We walked away satisfied and full. Give this place a visit.

Long line but moves fast as others noted. Food is... alright. I've had better udon on the mainland. Nice add-on options for tempura. Large portions for decent pricing considering location. The tamagoyaki is interesting. Loud environment, eat and go.

Marugame in Waikiki is a MUST! I come here to eat here every time I visit. The line always looks super long but it moves fairly quickly. The workers are super friendly and clean the tables in a timely manner. If the workers see you looking for a table, they will guide you to an empty table. You never have to worry about not having a place to sit down and eat. I've tried Marugame in San Francisco and a couple locations in Southern California and nothing beats the one here in Waikiki. There's just something about the udon here! I usually get the Nikutama Udon but wanted to try something spicy this time and it was equally delicious! The broth is always hot here, just the way I like it!

After my family visited the Japanese temple across from the Scouts HQ on Pali Hwy to receive our blessings on New Year's Day and our fortune for 2025, we were hungry. We decided on udon noodles which I suggested Marugame. Pictured is my all-time favorite, Curry Nikutama Udon, regular size. Usually I add a squid tempura or shrimp tempura. I got fried tofu to add to my bowl this time from my wife's udon bowl. Food always tastes great there. Fast service is always guaranteed. The seating is always kept clean and available by the staff. The only issue is parking in Waikiki. Good luck finding parking in the neighborhood. Take out is available. It's worth it to dine there when the udon is served fresh and hot!

Incredible! If you're reading this you probably already know you have to go. It's crazy good. Yes, the line can be long but it's long for a reason. Get the classic with some tempura and enjoy yourself. 10/10

Prob one of worst pickup experiences I've ever had. The level of incompetence was absolutely atrocious at this facility. Several people at pickup waiting for their orders, and no one acknowledges the patrons. I saw one person got the wrong food order. They only call your name once and then leave your food there to get cold. If you miss your name the first time, forget about ever getting your food. I stood there for 20 minutes to see several upset customers getting wrong orders, and waiting for 15 plus minutes even when the food was already ready. Had to ask two separate employees about my order and none could help me. One worker went to the back and ignored me, and when I asked the other worker, they couldn't even find it. Only after I showed them the email confirmation, they looked at the bottom to see it was sitting there cold for 15 minutes while I was waiting there asking. Food was extremely mid because it was cold even though I was standing there ready to eat it. The beef was overly sweet and the udon wasn't chewy or bouncy. Really disappointed. While they do have an excellent customer service system after you placed and eat your order, it sometimes is a bit too late. I do have to give credit though that they try to report back to the team and improve things so at least they have that system in place. All in all, can't quite recommend this place to eat for udon unless you want cheap eats.

Traditional Beef udon noodles. Absolutely delicious. For about 11 bucks I think it's well worth it.

One of my favorite go to's for udon. I recommend going during none peak hours to avoid the long line. They also have a to go window if your in a pinch. I always get their hot Nikutama. They have the cutest mini musubi's for a snack later. Their udon is made fresh and prepared right in front of you. You can't find a better spot than this.

AMAZING and FRESH udon!!!! The line can be deceiving and long but the udon is so worth it!!! The udon noodles have the right amount of bouncy and it's freshly made. They are so many varieties you can choose from, with 3 different soup base and it's kind of like a lunchroom style. You order what you want and grab any sides or tempura (the tempura sauce is sooooo good) and then you find a seat. There are guides to help you find a table if you have a big party. It's well worth the wait and the amazing flavors just bring me back to Japan.

This place is soo good we came here twice during our stay, and we still think about this spot. We already told people if they around they need to check it out. The ramen is made fresh, you can watch the cooks make the noodles in front of you which is really cool. The place is really cute and small. They are very fast so done let the line fool you, it's most definitely worth it.

Basically unchanged since my last visit ten years ago, and I'm glad. In the vastly overpriced Waikiki, Marugame's bowls are tasty and reasonable. Like others have said, the line is often out the front door but it does move very fast since it's cafeteria-like service. My advice is to go right for the Beef Udon, regular size, and to skip on the tempura. My wife had the Curry Nikutama Udon and while it's worth it if you like it spicier and a thicker broth, I thought the plain udon was the winner.

Tiktok sent me here. The restaurant is very fast paced. I have seen a line formed down the block but it moved fast. There wasn't a long line when I visited. Keep in mind that the space is small but they do their best to accommodate groups. Our party of three ordered, received our food and was seated within five minutes of arriving. I had the chicken katsu teriyaki and beef gyoza. The chicken and rice were good. I didn't want the crunchy topping but they gave it to me anyway. It was annoying to eat around it but not the end of the world. If I go back, I will probably order gyoza again and I'll try a ramen dish.

All the other reviews speak for themselves very well known, great price and melt in your mouth udon I never go out of my way for udon because it's typically too thick and chewy. This was melt in your mouth udon. Insanity It's cool to go see them make it in person but just call for pick up and eat at one of the outside tables. Takes 10 min compared to a 20-30 min dependent on the line

Excellent udon and speed. Came at 9:30 and got in by 10:10am as it's a food court order and sit down style with a tray. Overall the noodles are excellent and well textured. Not overly hard and not too soft. The cha sui was delicious for the Tonkatsu. Portion was large and felt fair for the value (got large). The chicken katsu is excellent and crispy. The tempura was not the best, passable. Not crispy or hot enough. The Diet Coke fountain drink wasn't carbonated enough, for a frequent Diet Coke drinker, so I suggest getting the can. Overall great value and speed!

Some of the best Japanese food I have eaten in a long time! When you first arrive at this restaurant, you will most certainly find a long line outside the door. Please don't let this deter you from going. The line tends to move quickly, and the food is worth the wait. You will notice they make their noodles from scratch. Just as you walk through the entrance, you will be entertained by the workers making their handmade noodles before your eyes. Then, you will be overjoyed to finally be at the front and pick up your tray as you try to decide what to order. You really can't go wrong with any of the menus items as they all taste delicious. You will find the place has limited seating, which is why the line out the door. The ambiance is pretty casual so don't feel the need to dress up, but it's the perfect place for meeting up friends. I wouldn't try to come here with a large party though. This was our second time coming back to this restaurant after our last trip to Oahu. Try this place. You won't regret it!

Crazy crowded. Long long outdoor line to get iin but operates efficiently. As you pass open kitchen while in line, you can see the menu options. You order and by the short time you are at the register, your freshly made order is ready. They promptly seat you so you can finish and keep thins moving. Very tasty.

The waiting line might seem long but service is quick. After placing the order you are seated accordingly. Many udon flavors to choose from. All very tasty and filling. Your eyes will be definitely be attracted to the buffet of tempura ala cart. The restaurant is clean with an abundance of tables and chairs.

Marugame Udon was worth the long line. The Nikutama Udon was savory, delicious, very filling. We also had the shrimp, crab, squid tempura, and the gyoza. Everything is reasonably priced. Walked out feeling satisfied. Very casual ambiance. Must try in Honolulu

Nikutama udon: tasty, udon is super tender and slurpable, soft boiled egg is runny, and sweet beef were indeed sweet (surprisingly so). Expectations were met Extra veggies: i honestly didnt even finish them since they were still crunchy not cooked enough in my preference (my fam all finished theirs though) Tamagoyaki tempura: sweet tamago. It is just a tamago with tempura batter over it. Just like tamago and just like tempura, lacks flavor. But the textures are on point, crunchy outside and fluffy inside. Squid tempura: unlike usual squids that are chewy, this one is surprisingly tebder to bite. Really easy to bite off. Chicken katsu: way more crunchy than the tempura. Not as juicy as I expected from a chicken katsu. Very thin. This one was the one that was almost sold out when I got to it. Even though I prefer the tempuras more. Musubi: I apologize as I ate this way after it was fresh and fridged. After microwave still good, but very fall apart. Extra: Heres my opinions; its a good touristy spot, a nice meal and all that. But I wouldnt say it is top 10 of all time on yelp good. Im not a big fan of udon and as a non fan of udon, the udon was pretty good but the quality difference between this udon and other udons from other restaurants is not that different. I believe the ability to pick your own appetizers like a buffet adds to the experience but not that much. Ive never tried sweet beef before and it was good but not that good yknow. A good tourist spot, definitely recommend at least once. Go in the morning to beat the crowds (there will be a long line) No reservations While in line, a guy will ask you how many people in your party. And after you order, same guy will escort your party to a table. Tell the chef themselves what udon you want, follow them as they will be asking questions about your order You get to take your own appetizers like a buffet (then they'll charge you right after) Theres a station for water, take out bowls/boxes, chopsticks/utensils, napkins etc 4/5 too crowded for me and udon is as good as other restaurants