Lunch Out on the Ave: Zen Noodle & Cafe

Zen Noodle & Cafe

4537 University Way NE

Seattle, WA

Zen Noodle is an amiable small sit-down restaurant about mid-block on the west side of University Way between 45th and 47th. They have at least three menus, so take the time to review your options. When you are seated, you will be given a legal-size sheet that has a menu on each side. On one side, there is a menu for a bowl for $9.99 (big appetite) and on the other side is a menu for a bowl for $7.99 (smaller appetite but still hefty). Follow the directions and take some chances, it's hard to go wrong. In addition to these two options ($7.99 and $9.99 soup bowls), there is a hard cover menu with a large assortment of other options. Most people order one of the soup bowls, so if you haven't been here before, start there. The server can be a good resource if the choices are too numerous or if some of the ingredients are unfamiliar. Vegans and vegetarians will find a vegetarian broth option and most food particularities can be accommodated by the menu choices. If you like the soup, then next time try something from the hardcover menu or just return again and again for the soup bowl, trying various options until you find perfection.

Service is quick, usually two people are manning the dining area, one to greet and seat customers and take orders, the other mans the cash register. The food is prepared in the tiniest of tiny kitchens, so be sure to take a short walk back to the restroom so you can have a peak inside. The dining area is clean and cheerful. Of note are the clever screens on the walls with indirect lighting along the sides. You will not be chilled to the bone by air-conditioning - fresh air is provided by opening the windows to the street. This might not be the best choice on a hot day, but hot soup is best on those chilly, moist Seattle days. Give it a try.