NO BORDER UDON in Kuala Lumpur: We Tried “by age 18” and Here’s Why It Matters

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A Plant-Based, Gluten-Free, Halal-Friendly Take on Sanuki Udon That Truly Surprised Us

When we heard that “by age 18”, a next-generation udon brand from Kagawa, Japan, opened its very first overseas branch in Kuala Lumpur this June, we knew we had to try it. After all, Sanuki udon is one of Japan’s most iconic dishes, but rarely accessible to Muslims, vegans, or anyone avoiding gluten.

by age 18 Kuala Lumpur

What we discovered was more than just a meal. It was proof that Japanese food culture can be inclusive, authentic, and absolutely delicious—all at once.

The restaurant sits in Bukit Damansara, Kuala Lumpur, and from the moment we stepped inside, we were impressed with the lush cozy atmosphere. The natural light-filled interior felt cozy and modern, setting the stage for a special experience.

The restaurant’s cozy atmosphere

The Udon: Real, Yet Reinvented

We ordered the kake udon with tempura set—and honestly, we were skeptical at first. Could rice flour really replicate the chewy, satisfying texture that makes Sanuki udon so beloved? and will the broth comes in the similar taste with the original Japanese udon?

The first bite erased our doubts. The noodles had that perfect bounce, the broth was umami-rich without fish or meat, and the tempura was crisp and golden. If no one told us it was plant-based and gluten-free, we might not have noticed.

Must-Try Dishes Beyond Udon

Of course, we couldn’t resist trying more!

Plant-based croquettes 

Crispy on the outside, soft and creamy on the inside—these croquettes are easily one of the best items on the menu. The savory apple-based sauce was a pleasant surprise, pairing beautifully with the filling. During our visit, we noticed almost every table had ordered them, and now we understand why!

Plant-based croquettes

Teriyaki Lion’s Mane Mushroom

Shockingly close to real chicken—both in texture and flavor! The savory teriyaki sauce takes it to the next level, making this one of the most impressive dishes at by age 18.

Uji Matcha Azuki Latte

To finish, the matcha drink was refreshing, smooth, and perfectly balanced. At first, we expected it to be sweet, as many drinks in Malaysia tend to be, but we were absolutely wrong. Instead, it delivered the true character of Kyoto’s Uji matcha—bitterness in the best way. The azuki topping added just the right touch of gentle sweetness if you prefer it that way. It truly felt like enjoying authentic matcha straight from Japan.

We also noticed the strawberry matcha drink was especially popular, particularly among female customers. That one’s definitely on our list for the next visit!

Even as someone who has tried countless vegan and vegetarian restaurants in Japan, we were impressed at how “by age 18” manages to balance authentic Japanese taste with an inclusive approach.

Why It Matters for Muslim and Vegan Diners

Malaysia’s multicultural dining scene feels like the perfect stage for this concept. With no alcohol in the kitchen (not even mirin), no meat or fish, and a menu fully plant-based and gluten-free, it’s rare to find a Japanese restaurant where Muslims, vegans, vegetarians, and gluten-intolerant diners can all eat together comfortably.

This is not just Japanese food “adjusted” for restrictions—it’s Japanese food reimagined, with depth and authenticity intact.

Dining at “by age 18” felt like a cultural bridge: Japan’s culinary tradition meeting Malaysia’s diverse food scene. We left impressed—not only by the flavors, but by the hospitality and thoughtfulness that went into every detail.

If you’re in Kuala Lumpur, this is not just a place to eat—it’s an experience worth seeking out.

by age 18 Kuala Lumpur

See Also

Halal Sanuki Udon in Kagawa Prefecture by “by age 18”

Plant-Based, Gluten-Free Sanuki Udon “by age 18” to Open in Malaysia