Koya City: Authentic Japanese Udon Experience in the Heart of London City Arcade.

Nestled within the bustling Bloomberg Arcade at 10-12 City of London, Koya City offers a truly immersive Japanese dining journey with its signature udon noodles and refined rice dishes. This compact yet stylish spot masterfully captures the essence of Japanese cuisine with a focus on flavor, texture, and authenticity. Whether you're a devoted foodie or a digital nomad seeking a cozy lunch, Koya City’s minimalist design and intimate atmosphere provide the perfect setting to unwind and savor each bite.

Menu highlights and dining experience

At Koya City, the udon noodles are the undeniable star: thick, chewy, and perfectly cooked with broths that burst with rich, layered flavors. Signature dishes such as the pork belly udon and bruised beef udon have earned rave reviews for their tender meat and expertly balanced seasoning. The rice dishes and tempura starters also showcase the kitchen’s finesse, with each plate crafted to highlight freshness and umami.

Cocktail lovers will appreciate the carefully curated drink menu that complements the food perfectly, featuring plum wine and a range of well-made cocktails, despite a smaller selection. Outdoor seating equipped with heat lamps adds a charming touch during warmer months, enhancing the inviting ambiance. Friendly and attentive staff ensure quick, seamless service making every visit memorable.

Community sentiment and value

The community consensus around Koya City is overwhelmingly positive. Diners praise the authenticity of the cuisine, particularly the addictively bouncy noodles and rich broths. Many highlight the warm and cozy atmosphere combined with the attentive service as reasons for repeat visits. Some guests note the prices can be on the higher side and that portion sizes for starters and desserts may feel modest for the cost, but this is generally offset by the outstanding quality and taste.

FAQs about Koya City

What are the operating hours of Koya City? Koya City operates Monday to Friday from 11:30 AM to 10:30 PM, Saturday from 10:00 AM to 10:30 PM, and Sunday from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM.
Does Koya City accept reservations? Yes, Koya City accepts reservations, especially during evenings and weekends.
Is there outdoor seating available at Koya City? Yes, Koya City offers outdoor seating with heat lamps for added comfort.
Are there vegan options available at Koya City? Yes, Koya City provides vegan-friendly dishes including various udon and starter options.
Does Koya City offer takeout or delivery services? Yes, takeout and delivery are available through platforms like Uber Eats.

Plan your visit to Koya City

Conveniently located in London’s vibrant financial district, Koya City is a must-visit for anyone craving expertly made Japanese comfort food. Whether you’re dropping in for a hearty lunch, a relaxed brunch, or a flavorful dinner, the venue’s welcoming vibe and high-quality dishes promise a memorable meal. Perfect for groups, families, or solo diners alike, it caters well to children and accepts modern payment methods including contactless cards and NFC.

History of Koya City in London City Districts Blooming with Udon Excellence

Nestled in the heart of the City of London at 10-12 Bloomberg Arcade, Koya City stands as a celebrated beacon for enthusiasts of authentic Japanese cuisine, particularly udon noodles. As a vibrant continuation of the renowned Koya brand, it carries forward a rich history dating back to its origins in central London.

The origins of Koya: Soho beginnings

Established in 2010, the first Koya location opened its doors in Soho, London, quickly garnering acclaim for its traditional Japanese udon and donburi dishes. The Soho venue became a culinary landmark, attracting foodies and cultural explorers alike, captivated by the rich flavors and fresh ingredients that defined Koya's offerings.

Expansion and relocation to Bloomberg Arcade

In 2018, Koya expanded its footprint by opening Koya City in the historic Bloomberg Arcade in the City of London. This strategic move positioned the restaurant amidst a bustling financial and cultural district, allowing it to serve a diverse clientele of business professionals, travelers, and local food connoisseurs. The original Soho site has since closed, but the City branch continues to carry the mantle of authentic udon excellence.

Adapting through challenges and evolving tastes

The COVID-19 pandemic in 2020 presented unprecedented challenges for the hospitality sector worldwide. Koya City adeptly responded by simplifying its menu, ensuring a streamlined and safe dining experience while maintaining the integrity of its signature dishes. This resilience helped the restaurant navigate the turbulent period successfully.

By 2023, Koya City had further solidified its reputation, earning widespread praise for its commitment to authentic udon preparation and its inclusion of vegan-friendly options — catering to evolving dietary preferences without compromising on taste or quality.

Highlights of Koya City's journey

2010 Opening in Soho marked the birth of an iconic udon bar in London.
2018 Bloomberg Arcade launch brought Koya to the vibrant City of London food scene.
2020 Menu adaptation demonstrated agility during the global pandemic.
2023 Vegan and authentic acclaim reflect Koya City's dedication to diversity and tradition in Japanese cuisine.

Today, Koya City remains a beloved destination for those seeking refined Japanese udon and rice dishes within a compact, stylish setting. Its ability to blend tradition with modern dining expectations ensures it continues to captivate both locals and visitors alike, making it a must-visit spot in London's ever-evolving culinary landscape.

Discovering Koya City: A Japanese Culinary Gem in London’s Financial Heartland

Nestled within the vibrant Bloomberg Arcade in the City of London, Koya City offers an authentic taste of Japan right in the heart of England’s capital. This stylish, compact restaurant is celebrated for its superb udon noodles and refined rice dishes, attracting food enthusiasts eager for a genuine Japanese dining experience.

Savor the flavors: What makes Koya City stand out

At Koya City, the spotlight shines on the thick, chewy udon noodles cooked to perfection in rich, flavorful broths. Guests rave about the pork belly and fish udon dishes, which exemplify authentic Japanese craftsmanship. The menu also caters to diverse dietary preferences, featuring vegan-friendly options and a variety of small plates and seasonal dishes to explore.

Friendly and attentive service complements the inviting ambiance, making every visit a warm and seamless experience. Whether you’re dropping in for brunch, lunch, or dinner, the staff ensure you feel welcome and well cared for.

Convenience and atmosphere

The restaurant’s central London location makes it an ideal spot for business lunches or casual gatherings, with outdoor seating available for sunny days. Koya City offers takeout and delivery services, catering to those seeking quality Japanese cuisine on-the-go. The venue is family-friendly and accommodates groups, though parking options are limited due to its urban setting.

Points to consider before visiting

While many diners praise Koya City’s quality and service, some note that prices can be on the higher side, especially for starters and desserts. Portion sizes may occasionally vary, and a few guests have experienced minor inconsistencies in service. However, the overall dining experience remains positive, especially for those prioritizing authentic udon and welcoming atmosphere.

Pros: Authentic Japanese udon noodles, vegan-friendly options, friendly staff, inviting ambiance, takeout and delivery available.
Cons: Higher pricing for some dishes, variable portion sizes, occasional service inconsistencies.

3.9

10-12 Bloomberg Arcade, City of London, London EC4N 8AR, UK

Open Now - Closing 10:00 PM

Monday

11:30–22:00

Tuesday

11:30–22:00

Wednesday

11:30–22:00

Thursday

11:30–22:00

Friday