Excellent udon and sushi served in a minimalist setting. Samurai Mama is dimly lit with a long communal table and a few side tables. It’s from the same owners of Bozu and Momo Sushi Shack, but with a focus on udon. If you’re not in the mood for noodles or sushi, small plates are also available with standouts like homemade silken tofu, pork belly and fantastic vegetable tempura. This is a casual spot to have a meal or pre-game it before an event.
Featured Reviews
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A Japanese spot focusing mainly on udon (they also serve some sushi), Samurai Mama is a good place to know about when you’re looking for a casual spot to warm up your frostbitten self in Williamsburg. The vibe feels like a Japanese maze/hideout, with four different rooms, and would be good for an early in the game date. If it’s not winter, the probability that you’ll end up here is dependent on your appreciation for udon. Get the curry one.
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An unfortunate name for what is a truly excellent noodle shop, and what I hope will be the start of a new, moderately-priced Asian-themed noodle dynasty. The hand-made udon are certainly good enough to carry it. The wood-and-brick filled interior is moody but comfortable, with a single long communal table dominating the dining room, along with a few satellite banquettes. Thankfully, the table is large enough that you can still be afforded some privacy despite the communal setting.
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The focus here has shifted from the sushi on offer at his other spot, Bozu, to udon, with thick homemade noodles in spicy fish or vegetable broth and a selection of toppings including shrimp tempura, sweet potato, poached egg, or pork Betty (cooked pork belly, fatty and delicious). Sushi is available in both roll and “taco” form, the latter made with a seaweed shell of sorts. Fried selections make great starters