When I visited Noodles & Company, I discovered that they serve both lunch and dinner, which is super convenient for a noodle lover like me.
As a long-time noodle enthusiast, I found it enthralling to learn that Noodles & Company was birthed in Denver back in 1995 thanks to Aaron Kennedy's affection for the world-renowned noodle dish. Astonishingly, Kennedy, who used to be a marketing executive at Pepsi, was so inspired by a noodle shop he visited in NYC, that he decided to start a noodle revolution in the US. Now if that's not visionary, I don't know what is!
Now, no great story is without its trials and tribulations, and Noodles & Company had its fair share. Their first year in business was a shaky one, so much so they almost went bankrupt. But, like a phoenix rising from its ashes, they dived back in, revamped their menu, and spent the subsequent years growing rapidly and strategically. Now that's what I call resilience!
If you are as intrigued as I was and want to satisfy your curiosity further, you can learn more about Noodles & Company from their official website.
Where Can You Find Noodles & Company?
In my pursuit of all things noodles, I wondered if I could get a treasured bowl outside the US. After research, I regrettably discovered that Noodles & Company is an exclusive domain of the United States. However, their presence spans over 400 locations across more than 30 states. My fellow noodle lovers in Colorado can rejoice as they have the largest number of outlets. Additionally, there are a good number of branches in Wisconsin, Illinois, Minnesota, and Indiana.
What Makes Noodles & Company Stand Out?
During my visit, the strikingly fast and efficient service was a breath of fresh air, especially considering how labor-intensive noodle dishes usually are. Most fast-casual restaurants are ill-equipped for such dishes due to the extra effort it requires, typically leaving us with a limited choice of sandwiches and burgers. In my experience, Noodles & Company presented a quick solution to this dilemma.
Another impressive aspect is the versatility of their menu. Their menu represents a melting pot of different noodle dishes from around the globe, from Japan to Italy, which for me is noodle nirvana!
Are the Dishes at Noodles & Company Spicy?
As a non-fan of spicy food, the first thing I checked was the 'heat level' of the menu items. Thankfully, I discovered that most items don't pack any serious heat. However, for my spice-loving friends, there's the Spicy Korean Beef Noodles with the kit of fiery Korean Gochujang BBQ sauce. Moreover, dishes like Japanese Pan Noodles and Buffalo Chicken Mac provide just a hint of spice.
Speaking of the menu, as expected one will encounter a multitude of noodles from different regions. I noticed they fall into five categories: Classic Noodles, Asian Noodles, Stuffed Pasta, Zoodles & Other Noodles, and Perfect Bowls. Each category boasts a diverse selection, catering to various dietary preferences from keto to gluten-sensitive. They thoughtfully include hearty chicken noodle soups for those feeling under the weather or in need of comfort food.
In addition to their impressive noodle collection, surprisingly, their menu extends to delicious mac & cheese dishes, fresh salads, and dessert for those with a sweet tooth. Moreover, they offer shareable plates and side dishes that are perfect for group outings, as well as a Family Meals category. Now that's what I call a well-rounded menu!
How to Score a Bowl of Noodles?
When you visit, enjoy the convenience of ordering at the counter and having your meal ready in as fast as five minutes. But if home feels more appealing, you can order for delivery or pick up through their website or phone app. And for the drive-thru enthusiasts, some of their locations do offer drive-up lanes.
What About The Veggie Lovers?
Fear not, my vegetarian friends! Noodles & Company has got you covered. They offer a variety of vegetarian-friendly items marked with a special sign on their menus. Popular vegetarian dishes include Pasta Fresca, Japanese Pan Noodles, and their famous Wisconsin Mac & Cheese.
Do They Cater to Kids?
Bringing kids along? No worries. They have a dedicated 'Kids Meals' section on their menu, featuring kid-friendly servings like the Tortelloni Marinara meal, Buttered Noodles meal, and Grilled Chicken with Dipping Marinara meal - all served with broccoli and applesauce for an added nutritional value.
When Can You Savor the Flavors of Noodles & Company?
Their operating hours may slightly differ based on location. Nevertheless, you can typically visit them from 11 am to 9 pm.
Is Dining at Noodles & Company Healthy?
In my quest for a healthy yet satisfying meal, I found Noodles & Company to be a great option. The majority of their meals are low in calories and fat, and comprise of wholesome ingredients, vegetables, and sauces. Plus, they cater to specific dietary needs. But if you're counting calories, some dishes like the Korean BBQ Meatballs and regular size Pad Thai with Shrimp could be a tad too sinful.
Can You Cook Noodles & Company at Home?
As much as I wish to recreate the Noodles & Company experience at home, unfortunately, they do not offer the cook-at-home option. But hey, a bowlful of their amazing noodles is always a few minutes away!
Pros and Cons of My Noodles & Company Dining Experience
Pros:
- Quick, efficient service
- Wide variety of noodle dishes
- Caters to dietary preferences
- Kid-friendly and family serving options
- Convenient online ordering and pick-up
Cons:
- No international branches
- Limited options for spicy food lovers
- Some dishes on the heavier side for calorie-conscious patrons
- No cook-at-home options