Men Touan

Men Touan in Nara is known for Kinchaku Kitsune Udon, a dish where the noodles are placed inside a fried tofu pouch that has been tied closed and simmered in sweet dashi. When you cut open the pouch at the table the noodles spill out into the broth. The theatrical presentation fits well with Nara's playful character, and the sweet-savory fried tofu adds real flavor beyond the visual gimmick. The shop is straightforward, casual, and fills up with local workers and tourists alike through the lunch hour.