Osaka: Quick and Affordable Udon at Temmasa (天政) in Namba

Temmasa (天政) is a cozy udon and soba shop located in the heart of Namba. With only counter seating, this hidden gem is known for its fast service and affordable, delicious dishes. A foodie friend of mine, who never misses a chance to visit Temmasa when he’s in Osaka, recommended it to me. Once I tried it, I was hooked, and now it’s a must-stop for me every time I visit Osaka. Their motto, “Inexpensive, Quick, and Delicious,” truly delivers!

The shop features a “コ”-shaped counter surrounding the kitchen, allowing customers to watch as their orders are quickly prepared. After entering, simply take a seat, place your order, and pay. In just a few minutes, your meal is ready.

Temmasa offers incredible value, with their most basic udon or soba starting at just 220 yen. You can customize your dish by adding toppings like egg or tempura for a small additional cost.

Kizami Udon is my friend’s go-to recommendation. “Kizami” translates to “cut” in English, and the dish features shredded deep-fried tofu and green onions floating on top of a flavorful broth. While I’m usually not a fan of deep-fried tofu, Temmasa’s version absorbs the broth beautifully, making it both tender and tasty. It’s a light option, perfect for breakfast or a quick snack.

Curry udon is my personal favorite. Unlike the sweet curry udon typically found in many udon or soba shops, Temmasa’s version is delightfully spicy, with a bold flavor that complements the springy udon noodles perfectly. I can’t resist drinking every last drop of the rich, spicy soup!

Kayaku gohan, which translates to “boiled rice mixed with vegetables and meat,” is another standout. The rice has a slightly sticky texture, and the seasoning is exceptional—likely thanks to their outstanding soup stock, which is also used for the udon.

Since the portion can feel heavy alongside a bowl of noodles, I often order it “to go.”

Temmasa is open from 10 a.m. to midnight, making it a convenient choice for late breakfast, lunch, or dinner. If your accommodation doesn’t include breakfast, Temmasa’s light and mild-flavored udon is an excellent way to start your day.

In the past, Temmasa wasn’t particularly tourist-friendly, but that’s changed in recent years. Now, they offer menus in English, Chinese, and Korean to accommodate the growing number of international visitors.

About

Name Temmasa or Tenmasa (天政)
Open Morning through midnight
Reservation Unavailable
Credit card Unavailable

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