ZipPicks Awards
Best Hidden Gem Restaurants in Upper West Side
Best Ramen in Upper West Side
Best Chinese in Upper West Side
Master Critic Review
Simply Noodles
7.7
A beloved local noodle spot on Amsterdam Avenue offering hand‑pulled noodles and classic Chinese soups in a casual takeout‑friendly setting. Its balance of fresh dough, hearty broths, and speedy service makes it a neighborhood favorite for solo meals and quick bites. :contentReference[oaicite:2]{index=2}
Must-Try Dishes:
Hand‑Pulled Noodle Soup, Dan Dan Noodles, Beef Noodle Bowl
Scores:
Value: 8
Service: 7.2
Consistency: 7.9
Food Quality: 7.8
Atmosphere: 6.5
Cultural Relevance: 7.2
What makes it special: House‑made noodles in a casual, efficient setting
Who should go: Busy locals and solo diners
When to visit: Weekday lunch rush
What to order: Hand‑pulled noodle soup, dan dan noodles, beef noodle bowl
Insider tip: Order ahead to avoid the small line during peak hours
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking is available, but can be limited during busy hours. There is a small parking lot nearby, but spots fill up quickly.
Dress code: Casual – jeans and a t-shirt are perfectly fine.
Noise level: Moderate – the space is casual, but conversation is still easy to follow.
Weekend wait: Wait times can reach 20-30 minutes during peak dinner hours.
Weekday lunch: No wait typically, but can get busy during lunch rush.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes – several vegetarian-friendly noodle and soup options are available.
Vegan options: Limited – there are a few vegan-friendly dishes like vegetable noodle soup and tofu-based options.
Gluten-free options: Yes – while not a dedicated gluten-free space, there are a few options like rice noodle soups available.
Best For
Better for: Simply Noodles excels in providing quick, flavorful hand-pulled noodles at an affordable price, perfect for a solo meal or quick lunch.
Skip if: If you're looking for an upscale or intimate dining experience, you may want to choose a different spot. Simply Noodles is casual and focused on efficiency.