A Sanuki Udon Classic You Can Always Rely On! Checking Out the Limited-Time Set
Hanamaru Udon is a well-known chain where anyone can easily enjoy authentic Sanuki udon. Dropping by one afternoon, a prominent sign at the storefront caught my eye: "September Limited: Hanamaru Set."
Boldly displayed on the signboard was "Takamatsu Store No. 1 Curry." Rooted in the homemade recipe originally prepared by the store manager of the chain's birthplace in Takamatsu, it immediately piqued my curiosity as a curry lover: "What does it actually taste like?" Sliding my tray along the familiar cafeteria-style counter, I went ahead and ordered the featured combo.
Tasting the "Hanamaru Set" (Takamatsu Store No. 1 Curry Small + Ontama Bukkake Small): Homestyle Comfort & An Honest Take
This time, I went with the September-exclusive "Hanamaru Set" (870 yen including tax), which is priced 110 yen cheaper than ordering the items separately.
If you have the official Hanamaru Udon app, using the periodically distributed 30-yen discount coupon is a smart, standard move. While it might feel modest compared to the former 100-yen coupons, savings are savings! Pairing it with the promotional combo price lets you enjoy a great deal without leaving money on the table.
On the tray sat the curry rice on a clean white dish, a bowl of bukkake udon garnished with vibrant green onions, and a soft-boiled onsen egg served on the side. Even though both are "small" portions, pairing two carb-heavy staples delivers quite a satisfying visual presence.
First up was the "Ontama Bukkake." Sliding the soft-boiled egg out of its small bowl and breaking the yolk with my chopsticks, it coated the glossy noodles in a luscious layer. Chilled in cold water, the noodles had a delightfully springy chew and went down silky smooth. The dashi broth, fragrant with dried sardines and bonito, blended seamlessly with the mellow egg, delivering that dependable, unchanging quality you expect from Hanamaru.
Next was the curry I had been curious about: "Takamatsu Store No. 1 Curry." Taking a spoonful, I was greeted by the sweetness of thoroughly sauteed aromatic vegetables and a mild blend of spices—a comforting, home-style taste reminiscent of classic home-cooked Japanese curry. It doesn't have the bold, punchy kick of Niigata’s famous "Bus Center Curry," but it comes generously packed with large chunks of potatoes and carrots that offer a wonderful, fluffy bite.
However, a couple of points felt a bit lacking. The poster clearly showed chunks of pork, but my serving barely had any meat, which made the ingredients feel somewhat lonely. Additionally, the amount of curry sauce felt slightly scarce relative to the rice portion; I ran out of sauce before finishing the rice, leaving the balance a little off.
[Summary] Perfect When You Want Both Udon and Rice! Try It While It's On Sale in September
The pairing of "Takamatsu Store No. 1 Curry" and udon works quite well, and its gentle, homestyle flavor is easy to enjoy down to the last bite. While it might not be an earth-shattering masterpiece that everyone must rush out to eat, it is definitely worth trying if you are curious about the humble roots of Hanamaru Udon.
The exact balance of meat and curry roux may vary depending on the store and the staff serving it. Getting both items for 110 yen off is only available through September 30. If it catches your eye, this is the perfect time to drop by and give it a try!