When Uki Uki first opened its doors in 2015, it didn’t just serve ramen—it introduced Warsaw to a noodle revolution. Back then, Taira Matsuki, the visionary behind the brand, proudly showcased his ramen-making wizardry, including an impressive electric noodle machine approved by the Ramen Association of Japan. Nearly a decade later, his culinary empire has grown, with Uki Green bringing vegan ramen into the spotlight and the original location on Krucza drawing lines that snake down the block.
The solution? A new outpost on Zgoda Street, just a short stroll away. This newly revitalized area, now home to a small Asian food trail, sets the stage for Uki Uki’s latest endeavor. The Zgoda location offers the same beloved menu but doubles down on ambiance. Think vintage Japanese signs, carefully sourced at auctions, and a mysterious 100-year-old demon statue tucked under a red gazebo—details that make dining here as much about the experience as it is about the food.
But let’s talk noodles, because that’s where Uki Uki truly shines. The udon, made in-house using the traditional Sanuki method, is nothing short of exceptional. Perfectly springy with a square cross-section, these noodles are crafted from Kitahona wheat flour from Hokkaido, a detail that sets them apart. Whether you go for the warm Sanuki udon in a rich bonito fish broth or the chilled Zaru udon with its dark, umami-packed dipping sauce, you’re in for a treat.
And it doesn’t stop there. The tempura—light as air and delicately crisp—earns high marks, with vegetable options like pumpkin and shiitake mushroom stealing the show. The Ebi tempura brings a crunchier, panko-style twist that somehow remains light and satisfying. Pair your udon with starters like silky salmon sashimi or juicy salmon teriyaki, and you’ve got a feast worthy of the hype.
While the focus is on tradition, Uki Uki isn’t afraid to innovate. The “Fusion Udon” menu offers playful twists, from tantan udon with its spicy sesame kick to buta curry udon, a comforting bowl of curried pork goodness. For ramen enthusiasts, classics like Tonkotsu and Miso Tonkotsu hold their own, proving that Taira-san hasn’t lost his ramen touch.
Uki Uki isn’t just about feeding the masses; it’s about creating a slice of Japan in Warsaw—a living homage to Taira-san’s grandmother, who inspired his passion for dashi and soup-making. So, next time you’re wandering through central Warsaw, don’t let the line deter you. Inside, you’ll find more than just a bowl of noodles. You’ll find a story, a tradition, and maybe even a demon or two.
