Why This Spot?
Curry udon wasn’t on my mind that day—but after a business meeting in Osaka, I stumbled upon a massive complex called Twin 21. Curious if it had any worthwhile food spots, I pulled out my phone and opened Tabelog. That’s when I found Kineya (杵屋), a restaurant specializing in hand-made udon noodles with a respectable 3.27 rating. Now, that might not sound amazing to some, but if you know how Tabelog’s strict scoring system works (check out our guide here), you’ll understand that 3.27 is actually respectable. I decided to give it a try. Here’s what I found.
Table of Contents
Quick Facts
- Restaurant Name: Kineya (杵屋)
- Location: Twin 21 Business Center, Osaka
- Date of Visit: April 2025
- Price Range: ¥1,000 ~ ¥2,000
- Specialty Dish: Udon Noodles
- Dining Style: Japanese
- Tabelog Rating: 3.27
- Lines or Wait Time: 10 ~ 15 minutes
- Foreigner-Friendly? Yes
What I Ordered
- Main Dish: Curry Udon Set (includes katsudon)
- Side Dish: Ebi Tempura (1 piece)
The curry udon set caught my eye immediately. It came with a mini katsudon, which felt like the perfect combo. I also ordered an additional ebi tempura just because I was in the mood for something crispy on the side.
Taste & Texture of Curry Udon
The curry broth was mild and clean—not too spicy, not too thick. It had a comforting aroma that wasn’t overpowering. Compared to places like Coco’s Curry Udon, which tends to be thicker and sticks to your mouth, Kineya’s version was far easier to finish without getting overwhelmed. It had a rich, subtly sweet flavor that didn’t tire the palate.
The udon noodles were handmade, slightly uneven in length (which I actually liked—shows authenticity), and pleasantly chewy. It made every slurp feel personal.
The katsudon in the set was average—tender pork, decent sauce, though it didn’t steal the spotlight.
The ebi tempura was crisp, not greasy, with a light batter that still had crunch by the time I got to it.
Inside the Restaurant (Vibe & Service)
The setup was modest but smart. Kineya is a typical restaurant tucked in a business complex, so don’t expect trendy interiors. Still, it was calm, clean, and functional
Ordering was surprisingly easy—each table had a QR code that led to a digital menu (with English!), so I didn’t even have to speak Japanese. Service was warm and polite. After being seated, I was immediately given a cup of cold tea. My server even made sure to refill it without me asking.
Is It Worth It?
Definitely. For ¥1,610, I got a solid curry udon set, a katsudon, and the ebi tempura. It’s budget-friendly, especially given the location inside a large business center.
Perfect for:
- Tourists exploring Osaka
- Budget-conscious diners
- Workers looking for a quick but satisfying lunch
Overall Meshidayo Score
4/5
The flavor, portion, and service all came together well. While the curry broth was milder than I personally prefer, it was enjoyable and comforting. Something was missing to make it exceptional, but it was definitely worth the visit.
The Dish That Stole the Show
Surprisingly, the ebi tempura was the winner for me. Perfectly fried with no oiliness, it was crunchy and fresh. I’d return just for a tempura and udon set combo next time.
What is Curry Udon?
Curry Udon (カレーうどん) is a fusion dish combining Japanese curry with thick udon noodles. It emerged in the early 20th century when curry (introduced via the British Navy) became a staple in Japanese home cooking. Unlike Indian curries, Japanese curry is milder and sweeter.
Curry udon differs from standard curry rice in its lighter, broth-like consistency and the presence of slurp-worthy noodles. It’s especially popular in winter for its warming effect.
Want to try making it at home? Check out this authentic curry udon recipe by Just One Cookbook — a simple and delicious way to recreate this comforting bowl in your own kitchen.
Final Thoughts
Kineya might not blow you away with bold innovation, but it offers something just as valuable: comfort, consistency, and care. If you’re in Osaka, especially around Twin 21, and need a solid, affordable lunch, this is a great option. It’s not the most unforgettable curry udon I’ve had, but it left me satisfied and content.
Would I return? Yes—especially for a calm lunch break when I’m craving udon.
Frequently Asked Questions
How does Kineya’s curry udon compare to Coco Ichibanya’s version?
Kineya’s curry udon offers a lighter, more refined broth with a subtle sweetness, making it easier to enjoy without feeling overwhelmed. In contrast, Coco Ichibanya’s curry udon tends to have a thicker, more robust sauce that can be quite filling.
Is Kineya’s curry udon suitable for children or those sensitive to spicy foods?
Yes, Kineya’s curry udon is known for its mild spice level, making it suitable for children and individuals who prefer less spicy dishes.
Can I order additional sides like ebi tempura with my curry udon at Kineya?
Absolutely! Kineya offers a variety of side dishes, including crispy ebi tempura, which pairs well with their curry udon.
Does Kineya provide English menus or ordering assistance for non-Japanese speakers?
Yes, Kineya is foreigner-friendly and offers English menus. Additionally, they have a QR code system that allows you to order directly from your smartphone in English.
Is there a significant wait time during peak hours at Kineya?
While Kineya is popular, the wait time is generally reasonable, averaging around 10 to 15 minutes during peak hours.
What makes Kineya’s udon noodles stand out?
Kineya specializes in handmade udon noodles that are slightly uneven in length, giving them a unique texture and authenticity that enhances the dining experience.
Is the curry udon at Kineya available as part of a set meal?
Yes, Kineya offers a curry udon set that includes a mini katsudon, providing a satisfying and balanced meal.
Are there vegetarian options available at Kineya?
While Kineya primarily focuses on dishes that include meat or seafood, it’s best to check their menu or inquire directly for any vegetarian options they may offer.
Trivia / Did You Know?
Japanese curry was introduced to Japan by the British Navy in the 19th century. It quickly adapted to local tastes and became a staple in school lunches and home kitchens. Curry udon came later — as a clever way to repurpose leftover curry. Now it’s one of Japan’s favorite winter dishes.
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