Saikyo Donbei:
Nissin’s Premium Instant Udon Worth the Hype
April 2, 2025
Saikyo Donbei recently topped a ranking of twelve cup noodles in Japan, earning high marks for its cost performance, ingredient quality, broth flavor, and noodle texture. With a slightly longer cook time, a fragrant yuzu shichimi seasoning, and a noticeably better abura age (fried tofu), this upgraded cup noodle proves that convenience store meals don’t have to feel like a compromise.
While Tokyo offers endless options for dining out, there are moments when a warm, comforting conbini dinner is exactly what you need. And when that craving hits, Saikyo Donbei is one of the best cup noodles in Japan to reach for.
You can find it at most major supermarkets and convenience stores across Tokyo. It may not be the most filling meal on its own, so consider pairing it with a cold beer and a dessert from the same conbini aisle.
It also makes a great take-home souvenir: lightweight, budget-friendly, and a fun way to introduce friends to Japanese comfort food.
How to make it
-
Step 1
First, boil approximately 410 ml of water.
Open the lid and remove the soup powder and shichimi packet.
-
Step 2
Add only the soup powder packet (the larger side of the packet).
Once the water is boiled, pour it into the cup up to the indicated line.
-
Step 3
Close the lid and let it sit for 8 min.
Finally, open the lid, stir the noodles gently, add the shichimi (small, red side of the packet) and enjoy!
Spotting the Difference
Saikyo Donbei
VS
Original Donbei
Look for the gold packaging and 8 minute cook time on Saikyo Donbei!