Update: We are sad to announce that Jimbo closed in 2020 during the COVID-19 pandemic.
For under twelve dollars, I enjoyed this hearty bowl of Udon noodles tonight at Jimbo’s in Honolulu. This local style eatery has been a favorite of mine for years. It’s not easy to find, tucked 50 feet back from the sidewalk on King Street, but definitely worth the effort.
Their homemade Udon noodles are always done right. Thick, chewy and fluffy. The bowl I had tonight included eggplant, shrimp tempura, green beans, green onions and a wonderful rich and salty miso broth. You can also opt for cold Udon, among other choices.
Jimbo’s is a casual place to eat that’s always busy. If there are no tables when you arrive, you’ll find a list posted to the window to sign in. Take a seat outside and you’ll be called when a table is ready.
The best way to eat Udon is to slurp. Don’t cut the long noodles. Grab your chopsticks and do a continuous feed. It also helps to keep a short distance between mouth and bowl. If you need help, just look around and watch how the locals eat.
For an after dinner treat, I recommend their green tea ice cream with azuki bean topping.
To reach Jimbo’s from Waikiki, go Mauka (away from the beach) on McCully Street until you reach King Street. Jimbo’s will be a block to the left. Unfortunately, it’s a one-way street and you can’t turn left so just go around the block. It’s about a 5 minute drive from the Ala Moana side of Waikiki.
Details:
Credit cards: Accepted if you dine in; take-out is cash only.
Price Range: $7.95 to $17.20 for lunch or dinner.
Location: 1936 South King Street
Phone: 808-947-2211
Reservations: Not accepted so get there early.
