Reviewing Ishin Udon: Innovative Japanese food in Houston’s Chinatown. 

A newer but popular addition to the Houston Chinatown restaurant scene is Ishin Udon. Ishin Udon is a little slice of Japan right in our own backyard. 

When you walk into Ishin Udon, you’ll notice the wooden interior in a traditional Japanese style that begs you to sit down and relax with a bowl of udon. Though the interior is traditional in style, it mixes in modern touches with art, posters, and nicknacks all over the walls. Their menus aren’t just limited to soups— there are many appetizer options and other entrees available for those who are in the mood for something else. Ishin Udon even has a wide selection of Italian-style Japanese pasta (think traditional Italian pasta dishes, like carbonara, with Asian flavors). However, you’ll get your fill with whatever you choose. As for the udon, you can choose from many types, spice levels, and broth flavors.

I chose the chicken katsu curry, and for appetizers, my table ordered the age tofu, vegetable tempura, and takoyaki. It was so hard to choose. They had so many appetizers and entrees that it took me a while to decide. 

The wait staff is quite nice and helpful, so if you have any questions, they’ll be happy to help you decide what to order. After we ordered water, they brought out a large, ice-cold glass carafe and small glasses to pour water into. And they have a variety of other drinks available, including different types of alcohol, teas, and sodas.  

Our appetizers arrived first, displayed nicely on individual plates. The vegetable tempura was crispy on the outside, well cooked yet not soggy in the middle. The age tofu was a bit slippery but had more flavor than other age tofu I’ve had at other restaurants, but the takoyaki was my favorite. As a typical fun appetizer for any occasion, takoyaki is hard to hate. Scrumptious, filling and tender seafood in the middle, with umami-packed garnishes on top.  One heads-up— be careful biting into them right away because they are absolutely scorching inside. 

After we were served our appetizers, our main dishes were brought out. The curry was flavorful, accompanied by fluffy, fresh rice and vegetables. My favorite part was the giant okra they included among the vegetables, which I hadn’t seen before with curry. The chicken was well-cooked and breaded.   

I couldn’t finish my entire meal, so I got the rest to go. They provided me with sturdy take-out containers, which held up well and did not get soggy despite the curry inside. Microwaved later at home the next day, the curry tasted just as fresh as it did in the restaurant. 

So, even if you’re not in the mood for soup, you don’t have to feel limited to just udon. There are many things for you to try, even if you just choose to order a bunch of appetizers to fill up on. If you’re looking for a quick lunch, a fun dinner with friends, or a quiet meal any time of the day, Ishin Udon has something for every craving.