First time trying Fukada, ordered dinner for to go. It initially seemed like a lot of different boxes, but I liked how the food came separately packaged so that none of it got soggy. The food was simple and had a homemade, traditional feel to it. Went down easy and left me feeling satisfied. Could eat this everyday! Will go back for sure read more

The plaza has changed! It's been over 10 years since I've eaten here and man is it a blast from the past. No more waitlist to get seated to dine in. Rather all orders are to-go only including hot/cold noodle dishes. No plastic-free options which is little disappointing but what can we do? There still is inside seating but it's definitely first come first serve and they no longer serve using dish ware and cutlery. It's nice that they have complimentary ice water and a designated seating area for to-go orders now instead of having to hang around outside to wait for your order. They do have an expedited pickup area for phone order pickups towards the bar which is convenient. I might do that next time as my to-go order took over 18 minutes from start to finish. The food quality is not the same as it was before. The spicy tuna don is still delicious but doesn't travel well with to-go box. Getting udon to-go is also tricky. I decided it is probably best to eat it fresh there than take it home next time. Overall, I understand with Irvine rent, COVID-19, and inflation, restaurants have had to change or adapt to a quick service type of model. Fukada wasn't always known for their spectacular in-person dining pre-pandemic. I feel like this method of business matches their high-volume, low-touch vibe and will probably continue to sustain them into the future. They still have yet to implement Apple Pay / contactless pay but all in good time. read more

PROS: - The food here is pretty fantastic! The udon noodles were chewy and the soup was hearty. The donburi bowls were also very tasty. - The tempura was also very delicious! Crispy batter and fried to perfection. - The portions here are very generous as well. CONS: - This place gets very busy and fills up very quickly. Trying to find a seat during their busy hours is a PITA. - There is no full service here. You order at the register, they pack your food to-go, and you find a seat (if you can find one), and eat. read more

Fukada is truly a gem and one of my favorite places to eat ever! I always get their noodle combination - I get the Hot Tanuki Udon with the Spicy Tuna Don and it HITS EVERY TIMEEEE. Their mixed tempura appetizer is delicious too, and comes with an assortment of veggie tempura, shrimp tempura, and a piece of fried fish (so good!). It can get pretty busy during the lunch rush, but their kitchen is really fast and efficient so you won't be waiting long. If you're on a time crunch, I suggest calling ahead and placing your order for pick up. The staff is always super nice, patient, and helpful. It's also a smaller restaurant but they have some seating inside and tables you can use outside. Can't wait to get this for lunch again soon! read more

Just had the unagi Don and spicy tuna roll. It was really delicious the unagi don itself was very tender and cut like butter. The tuna roll was pretty basic. This is restaurant where you order in the front then you can sit, but everything is served in to go containers even if you dine in. The restaurant inside was a bit warm, but the main entrees were good. read more

Fukada - Unagi Don and Spicy Tuna Roll - Japanese Near Me - Irvine, California

We came here for dinner on a Friday evening around 6pm. They were quite busy. However, we were seated quickly. The food took about 20 minutes. We ordered the Teriyaki chicken bowl, Chilean sea bass, Salmon Sea Bass, and Kamo-seiro soba noodles. The chicken teriyaki bowl and soba noodles were very good. The flavor of the sea bass was good but the piece we got was a bit burnt on about half of it and the piece wasn't that big to begin with. So that was a bit disappointing. The side of beans was good though as well as the side salad. The menu selection was very good. The atmosphere is casual. And parking was easy. If we return to this area, we would go back but not for the sea bass. read more

I've been going to Fukada for over a decade, can't believe I have never given them a review! I really like this place! The spicy tuna don and udon with hot soup is my go to and favorite combo. The spicy tuna don is always good. I've been here over 50 times prob through the years. One time it tasted a bit fishy. I heard restaurants get their fish on a specific day of the week, so maybe I went on the day right before the deliver because that was the one time it tasted fishy. The wait here is always nuts. You need to arrive 10-15 min to sign in before they open to ensure you get seated when they open or else prepare to wait about an hour or so. We went this last weekend and they made it to go only, but allowed you to sit in the restaurant. They said they were short staff, so we're able to stay open like this. The wait to order was about 15-20 minutes. I guess this is better than waiting an hour and then having to wait for your food. I think I prefer this better. HAPPY FUKADAING!! read more

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Meh food quality. It's something to eat but nothing impressive. It's an order yourself and seat yourself format. They will bag up your food and hand it to you as if taking out. They have one bathroom for females and one bathroom for males. Could technically be made gender neutral if you ignore the door signs. read more

Fukada - Vegetarian roll - Japanese Near Me - Irvine, California

I was disappointed with the value for money here. The food was delicious, but the portion sizes were quite small, especially considering the high prices on the menu. It left me feeling that it wasn't worth the cost. read more

Dang. Went to Fukada for the first time since Covid. This was our family's "go to soup" restaurant!! What happened??? Where are all the cooks we remember? The foods definitely not the same!! No LONG WAITING times!! Sad when a restaurant loses it soul...maybe it lost its owners??? read more

It's been a long time since I've been back and my most recent visit was quite disappointing. They're only doing takeout now which results in a lot of plastic and styrofoam waste. You can eat in the restaurant but all the food comes in takeout containers. The amount of waste that we generated left a sour taste in my mouth. The food didn't taste as good as before either. The seafood salad came with seared salmon and albacore but the albacore was not the freshest. I would avoid ordering tempura near closing time because they do not change out the oil. I don't think we will be back unless they change their practices. read more

I've loved Fukada since I was little, and their food is very consistent! Their udon is definitely one of my favorites, the noodles are very chewy and the soup is delicious! I know they do it to be hygienic, but I don't prefer all the plastic waste as of post-covid :( It makes the food not as hot. Regardless, still a tasty spot! read more

Solid Japanese restaurant with quick service and easy takeout option. Soba was good but could be more flavorful broth. Tuna donburi was very good. Would pass on the chicken appetizer read more

Fukada - Katsu Don , soba, salmon neck, chicken appetizer - Japanese Near Me - Irvine, California

As most of the reviews will tell you, this family own restaurant is best known for their Udon. The broth is warm and clean. I specifically like their lunch combo and enjoyed their selections. We tried a their Katsu don and spicy tuna don. Both were good and plenty for 1.5 people. I will say I enjoyed the spicy tuna more as the balance with protein and rice was better. The seafood salad was filling as well and provided ample protein. Really refreshing and 100% worth it. The ordering process is a bit strange. You order the food and can either take it Togo or sit at one of their outdoor seatings or indoor seating. Regardless you will receive your food in a to go container. The service is friendly and they will walk to you to deliver your food if you are eating inside. They also provide water and tea! Interior is bright and spacious, mellow music and good lighting for food pics read more

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Udon with the half half toppings, spicy tuna roll, and squid leg salad yummmmm ask for the spicy mayo!

Fukada is a great hidden gem, really enjoy the many different types of Japanese cuisine served here, favorites are the spicy tuna don, the salmon skin Salad and the Nasu Miso. Staff are friendly and helpful in helping to select options you might enjoy. read more

It's May 2024 and their indoor seating is open however it's still not dine in service (you pay first and it's served in takeout containers). Their lunch/dinner combinations are still one of the best in town. No complaints. Simple, efficient, hits the spot. read more

Fukada - Hot udon tanuki + tempura don white rice - Japanese Near Me - Irvine, California

I come here all the time. Lately the quality of the sashimi has not been the usual. It's tough and the cut is not good! I've never been served sashimi like this before. It was tough and I could not bite it. Not sure if I will come back or I'll have to check my order before I leave. read more

Fukada - Salmon sashimi from my salad. Never had cuts like this before - Japanese Near Me - Irvine, California

I took my brothers here right as when they were opening on a Sunday morning and it was already packed! I was expecting a dine in situation but they do "take out" and we basically find our own seat. From a business stand point they reduced spending for employees. I mean not a bad idea if your restaurant is thriving! First time here and they had a great selection of Japanese cuisine. Their lunch portion is very affordable as you can combine it with your choice of udon and rice bowl. Not bad! I ordered a chicken teriyaki don and I was impressed. Probably the best teriyaki chicken I've had in a while. Flavors were on point, such a simple meal but very satisfying. I threw in some appetizers for us to all share. The tatsuta age is a must. It's a deep fried marinate chicken. You need to squeeze lemon on it and it's perfect. A nice appetizer to add as you're enjoying udon. The agedashi tofu was fire. The coating of the tofu was different from what I've had. Super soft and really well put together. I would always order this here! I enjoyed this spot and so did my brothers! read more

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First time ever having cold noodles and when I say this place didn't disappoint! We got the two item combo deal ( dinner). The pork katsu was BOMB! Also make sure you order the Goma you won't be disappointed on it if you like spinach! The gyoza was also tasty as well! Pricing was really good. The combo for dinner that I choose was 18$ bucks. That's cold noodles and a hot entree! You can't beat that price! The service was so nice. This is currently take out orders only but you can eat inside or outside the restaurant. They will bring the food to you. They offer water in the front for you. So you can get your refill anytime you like. Definitely will be back for the lunch menu. read more

So happy their dining room is open! They serve the food to go but you can eat it there if there is a table available. Dining room was clean. We ordered our food with the staff on the left side and grabbed a table on the right side. When the food was ready, they brought it to our table. Everything we ordered was delicious!! Last time we ate here was pre-COVID be cause we live too far to take the food home to eat. Fried Chicken - yum!! The sauce they serve it with is really tasty. I don't know what it is but we both enjoyed it. Hot Tanuki Udon- they serve the noodles with toppings in one bowl and the soup in a styrofoam bowl which keeps it warm. The soup base is so yummy! Just like I've had in Japan. The noodles are a little thinner than the udon you see in the market. I kinda prefer them like this because they are more delicate. Katsudon Rice Bowl - Nice portion. Really good. No complaints. Gyoza - these were so yum that my husband placed an order for more while we were there. Agedashi Tofu - Love this!! I have to order this every time. The dashi, bonito, and green onions are served on the side. read more

Fukada - Takeout only but dine in ok. - Japanese Near Me - Irvine, California

I would literally SELL MY SOUL for Fukada's Chicken Teriyaki recipe. It's so tender, full of amazing flavor, and I always love the chopped asparagus that comes with the dish as well. Fukada is an excellent authentic spot that offers great dishes and a casual atmosphere, especially with its takeout style and open seating. The best! read more

Fukada - Chicken Teriyaki, Green Bean, Organic White Rice Or Brown Rice Vegetable Tempura - Japanese Near Me - Irvine, California

I recommend Fukada - the food was so tasty, the restaurant was well-kept and clean, and the cashier/servers were so nice! The spicy tuna rolls are a MUST TRY and I can't wait to come back! read more

So much bang for your buck! I get the dinner combination every time. Hot tanuki udon with the spicy tuna don. The soba is sooo good too. Great casual and authentic Japanese food. Best I've had in SoCal so far. read more

The establishment is set up as to go. There's not enough staff to have the sit down experience. However, if you want to eat there, you would have to try the first available table. Given we came on a rainy day, the seating inside is limited for lunch. We got our food within less than 15 mins. I love how they provide you with a lunch or dinner combo for a fairly reasonable price. We opted for hot udon noodles and curry noodle and chose the seafood salad, katsu don, and spicy tuna with rice as the second combo for the udon noodles. Everything was good and the broth was tasty. The kids enjoy it. If you are in the area and want something simple, fresh, and quick then this is the place to go. read more

$8 Udon in Irvine, heck yes!!! My husband took me here cause he used to go frequently when he lived in the area. It was delicious!! There is plenty of parking, dine in can happen if you are ok with take out bowls and utensils (due to a shortage of employees, they cannot serve anyone like a restaurant), and there is water available. I ordered the simple udon with tempura flakes that included spinach and it was amazing! The best part was how affordable it was!! I tried my husband's warm soba noodle soup and egg and chicken with rice. It was all so good!! Would definitely come back here and recommend it to many! It's just a shame that so much dine in plastic containers are being used and wasted. read more

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Omg this place is amazing. Yes it comes in Togo boxes but the quality of their food is superb. We live 1.5 hours away but if we're ever in the area, we're eating here!! They're so nice from ordering to calling out the numbers. They always greet us with smiles. The ambiance is great for a quick lunch or a family dinner. If you're ever in town, come try the hot udon noodles and the spicy tuna don. You won't regret it! read more

One of my favorite spots that I've been frequenting for years now. This used to be one of my friend's favorite lunch spots but it grew to something that I really enjoyed as well. The value that Fukada is able to provide is unheard of and even now, it's still a great deal. I always order the Noodle Combination - Tanuki Udon and Spicy Tuna Don both for $15! This used to be way cheaper back then, but I used to be able to eat the whole thing by myself. Now, this is enough food for my girlfriend and I. Unfortunately, we have not dined in for a long time since probably before COVID but we have gotten it for takeout a few times now. I've had a few of their other menu items, but the combination is still the best. If you're looking for a delicious, fresh meal, Fukada is the place to go! Definitely will be back. read more

Love the food here. It's simple menu with fresh ingredients. I like that they offer combinations so you can try more than one thing. The lunch menu is cheaper by $1. This establishment has moved away from restaurant service and has moved to more of a to-go place. People are still welcome to eat here but you seat yourself and of course clean up after yourself too since all the utensils and containers are disposable. That is actually my only gripe and hope Fukada starts using more sustainable containers. They still use foam and a lot of plastic because it is a to go establishment. The food is just so good and my favorite has been the hot udon with the tanuki. I typically get it with brown rice and spicy tuna. My husband and kid don't like this place as much as I do. It's not fancy or sit down but affordable and consistent food quality read more

Great place for a quick lunch. Currently take out only but they offer open seating inside the restaurant with self service water, tea, and utensils. The spicy tuna don combo was so delicious and tasted pretty fresh, one of the best spicy tuna I've had. The soba was solid and so was their salmon skin salad. We also ordered their calamari but it was just okay. Mixed tempura was filled with frish, shrimp, lotus, and other vegetables. The portions here are worth the price if not more so! Would definitely come back to try their rolls and other sushi. read more

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This place was recommended to us by multiple people so of course we had to try it out. Unfortunately, they are currently take out only due to a staff shortage but they still let us sit at their indoor tables which was nice! The udon was so warm and delicious. The broth was super flavorful and it was all just so comforting. The spicy tuna don was pretty good. I wasn't expecting the tuna to come like that (i've just never had something like it before) but it was actually quite yummy. I also really enjoyed the spicy tuna roll (dare I say more than the don haha). Overall really solid place and I would come back! read more

I ordered takeout with a friend, and we sat outside where there are a number of public dining tables. You get free hot tea, and the prices are fair for the portion. - Agedashi tofu ($5.50). Soft silken tofu with a thin, crispy, and slightly chewy exterior. Good. It was piping hot, so naturally I popped one whole piece in my mouth and burned my tongue. Learn from my mistakes! The appetizer came with bonito flake and a light soy-based dipping sauce. - Ten musu (forgot the price - a la carte 4 pcs). The rice was chewy, tempura shrimp inside was good, and I liked the yellow pickled daikon it came with. I added kewpie mayo to the leftovers and it tasted even better! read more

Fukada - Agedashi tofu appetizer - to go - Japanese Near Me - Irvine, California

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Been to Fukada many times over the past 15 years. Always solid, even after Covid. The old man behind the counter looks to have retired but the food quality hasn't really changed. My go to is the tuna don and you go wrong with it there. read more

Please dont tip!!! Food is great, service is .... nostalgic to COVID times, thats horrible. They are takeout only, even thou they have the space,customer loyalty and the tables... why do it in this horrific style when they bring you food in a plastic bag (yuk) when you sitting at the table allready? Dont the waiters want tips? I asked for water and waitor pointed at the door for me to get water read more

Fukada - Interior - Japanese Near Me - Irvine, California

Good food and ambience. Priced reasonably with good selection of Japanese pub foods served in reasonable time.

I've been loving the hot sansai udon at Fukada since college 15 years ago. I never had a problem until last night when I got violently ill with food poisoning after eating the spicy tuna don. My friends and I all had the udon but I was the only one who ordered the dinner combo with spicy tuna don and was the only one to get sick. I will stick with only fully cooked food from Fukada if I ever go back. read more

Picked up Fukada for a dinner with 10 people. The restaurant has been turned into a takeout spot but there are tables you can eat at. We ordered our takeout as soon as the restaurant opened for dinner. There was already a line of 3 people when we arrived and it looked like several takeout orders had already been prepared and ready for pickup. We waited about 20 minutes for the food. I ordered 10 combos and they were all around $15 which is a great deal for dinner. Overall was very happy with the experience. The wait wasn't bad, food was good and everyone had leftovers since there was so much food. read more

Delicious and authentic food, great service with a focus on the customer. Ambiance is chill with little to no background music. Amazing seafood salad, spicy tuna and miso soup. This place has never let me down and remained consistent on food service, quality and pricing over the past few years. Lunch options are worth it, but place is quite small and can get very busy. I recommend ordering ahead for pickup if you can't sit and dine inside. read more

Still serving take-out only but you can sit at the tables if there's room. Amazing service - everyone is so friendly and efficient. I hope they can hire more staff soon so they can fully open but I know it's been so hard to find people in the restaurant/service industry. Their food is just as delicious and fresh as ever! I love this place and come here weekly or biweekly. read more

Fukada is one of my favorite restaurants of all time. It is such a comforting, affordable, and filling meal. They have not yet become full service again, but you order at the counter "to go" but can sit down at the tables as long as you pick up after yourself. You must order the fried squid legs- plated over a bed of lettuce and their amazing dressing- I ALWAYS crave this. I also always order an Udon Noodle Combo, I like tempura flakes on the udon vs the veggie and I flip flop between the rice bowls. They're all good but my favorites are the spicy tuna (creamy with mayo and not too spicy) and the unagi (upgrade charge is totally worth it). The portions are very generous and if you want to save $ go for lunch! It's cheaper but I feel like the portion is the same. read more