Shuko Oda
Cycling is my favourite way to get around London… it also gives me the freedom and ease to explore, wandering into new corners of the city.
Shuko Oda is the executive chef and co-founder of Koya. Having grown up between London, Los Angeles and Tokyo, Koya was born from a lack of – and yearning for –genuine, high-grade Japanese cuisine in London.
Now with three sites and a central noodle kitchen, Koya hopes to be the first and last choice when it comes to authentic Japanese udon with a contemporary twist.
Q. Tell us a bit about what you do and what inspires your work?
We opened our doors 15 years ago in Soho, followed by branches in the City and Hackney. We specialise in udon noodles and dashi and regularly update our blackboard specials to highlight locally sourced produce and seasonal ingredients.
We’ve also launched a line of retail products under the name Omiyage by Koya featuring our homemade udon noodles, Bitsy Chiili Oil, pickles and more to come!
I think cooking and having my own restaurant has always been about providing for and nourishing my family, friends and the wonderful people of this city.
Working in London naturally means working with individuals from a variety of backgrounds and cultures and this continues to inspire me with unexpected flavours and fresh perspectives.
It’s about being a bit niche but always accessible – offering quality, honest food that makes you want to come back again and again.
Q. Where's home and what are the places and spaces that make you happy?
Home is our house in Forest Hill where we’ve lived for over 10 years. It’s where we had our two babies — who are sadly no longer babies — and where I see our future. Reading, lying on my bed with the sun warming my back is one of my favourite things and one of my happiest times.
Q. What does cycling mean for you and where do like to ride?
Cycling is my favourite way to get around London, especially as I’m always moving between the different branches. It’s the quickest, most practical, and most pleasant way to travel.
It also gives me the freedom and ease to explore, wandering into new corners of the city. Taking that little extra time to go the long way, or not the usual way, and discovering a new part of London is a treat in itself!
