Udon looks low cost, but the margin disappears when broth yield and noodle weight drift.
This guide shows how to lock portions, price toppings, and keep US margins stable.
Quick Summary
- Udon cost is noodles + broth + topping + garnish + packaging
- Broth must be costed per batch, not per pot
- Set one noodle weight per size and never move it
- Tempura and protein toppings decide the margin
Base Formula
Udon bowl cost = noodles + broth + topping + garnish + packaging
Food cost % = bowl cost ÷ menu price
Target price = bowl cost ÷ target food cost %Broth Batch Math (Example)
Batch (20L finished):
- Dashi base + soy + mirin + aromatics: $62
- Yield: 20,000ml
Per-ml cost:
$62 ÷ 20,000ml = $0.0031/mlPer bowl (350ml): $1.09
Noodle Portion Standard
Pick one cooked weight per size:
- Small: 200g
- Regular: 220g
- Large: 250g
If the weight shifts by +20g, food cost climbs fast.
Topping Cost Benchmarks
| Topping | Portion | Cost Range (Example) |
|---|---|---|
| Kake (no topping) | 0 | $0.00 |
| Tempura shrimp | 1 pc | $0.90 - $1.40 |
| Chicken | 90g | $1.20 - $1.80 |
| Beef | 90g | $2.10 - $3.00 |
| Soft-boiled egg | 1 pc | $0.40 - $0.70 |
Price tempura and protein bowls from the highest-cost topping, not the average.
Example Bowl Cost (Regular)
| Item | Cost |
|---|---|
| Noodles | $1.10 |
| Broth | $1.09 |
| Tempura shrimp | $1.20 |
| Garnish | $0.20 |
| Packaging | $0.45 |
| Total | $4.04 |
Target at 30% food cost:
$4.04 ÷ 0.30 = $13.47Delivery Pricing Notes
- Add packaging and spill-proof lids to the bowl cost
- Charge for extra broth and protein add-ons
- Keep noodles and broth separate for quality (and clearer costs)
US Market Data
The latest BLS CPI release (Dec 2025) shows food away from home +4.1% over 12 months, meaning monthly cost review beats annual price updates.
Do This Now
- Standardize all portion sizes in grams or ounces
- Calculate food cost for your top 5 menu items
- Set up a weekly price check for key ingredients
- Document your current yield percentages
- Create a pricing review calendar for the next 12 months
Related Guides
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