“Okame-san (Otafuku-san)” was the wife of the master carpenter who worked on the construction of the main hall of Senbon Shakado. She dedicated everything to protect her husband and later became widely loved as the guardian deity of the home, supporting from the shadows. “Otayan” is the Kyoto dialect term for “Okame-san.” Continuing the tradition of the renowned Kyoto Shimizu restaurant in Shimogamo, “Otayan” pours a lot of love into every bowl of broth even today.
Mission for Ingredients
MISSION
Chewy Kyo Udon
The characteristics of Kyoto udon are the softness of the noodles and their chewy texture. Furthermore, these soft noodles pair exceptionally well with curry broth. The history of udon in Kyoto is ancient, with udon repeatedly appearing in Kyoto temple documents and other sources since the 14th century.
Additionally, our udon features original noodles crafted using a method that rounds the edges. This unique noodle style makes it less prone to splashing when eating and provides a gentle and smooth texture. Please enjoy the delightful texture of Kyoto udon when paired with our carefully crafted curry broth.
Highest Peak Broth
We use the highest-quality broth, also used in prestigious, traditional Japanese restaurants of Kyoto’s Gion district, for our Kyoto-style curry broth. Please savor the rich and aromatic flavors of this smooth and mellow broth.
Kujo Green Onion
Kyoto’s traditional vegetable, Kujo Green Onion is said to have acquired its name because it has been cultivated in the southern part of Heian-kyo (ancient Kyoto), near the Kujo area.
It is characterized by soft and long leaves with a pleasant flavor. It has a high, pasty content inside, which enhances the sweetness of the leek and has a warming effect on the body.
Omi Rice
Rice in our restaurant uses locally sourced Omi rice from Shiga Prefecture.
Omi rice is delicious and safe rice that has been nurtured in a blessed natural environment with clear water and fertile soil, showcasing the inherent sweetness of rice and a moderate stickiness.
Store Information
SHOP INFO
| Store Name | Otayan |
| Phone Number | 075-275-4974 |
| Address | Kyoto, Sakyo Ward, Jōdoji Nishidachō, 72-3 |
| Time of Operation | 11:00~16:00 17:00~22:00 Last Order 21:00 |
| Parking | None Please use the coin parking nearby |
| Regular Holiday Off Days | No Regular Holiday Off |
Bringing out Happiness Okame-san’s face
The name of the shop, “Otayan,” is derived from “Okame-san,” who was the wife of Takatsugu, the master carpenter who built the main hall of Daihoon Temple (Sembon Shakado) during the Kamakura period. It has been said for a long time that this name brings good luck for business prosperity and attracting a multitude of customers.
The face of Okame, named “Otafuku ”, is said to bring upon 5 blessings.
<Large Face> Without putting out widely and largely to the world
<A small, puckered mouth> Saying nothing unnecessary nor bad mouthing
<Low Nose> Does not brag
<Thin Eyes> Never ceases to keep a smile
<Plump Cheeks> Keeping the mind and body healthy
May lots of happiness come to the customers who visit Otayan
Greetings from the Landlady
The taste of Otayan has been inherited from the long-established udon restaurant “Shimizu,” founded in Showa 16 or 1941. Behind the preservation of this flavor for over 80 years are the women who can be called “Real Otayan.”
They were earnest, incredibly strong, and beautiful in their own ways, each of them, despite their circumstances, thought of their loved ones and lived with dedication.
This attitude remained unchanged in their work, and their perseverance supported the taste of Otayan. Now, that taste and spirit have been passed on to a new generation, and we continue to challenge ourselves to reach even greater heights.
In cooking, we believe that the harmony of all ingredients and flavors is essential, but we also think that the addition of human harmony can allow us to provide the finest cuisine. This is because we believe that our balance (harmony) influences the taste of the dishes.
We invite you to come and savor the harmony we create. Our staff is looking forward to welcoming you with open hearts.