Noodle In A Haystack in San Francisco: photos, reviews, menu

About

MICHELIN

Selected: Good cooking

In San Francisco's Richmond District, Noodle in a Haystack offers an exceptional dining experience that's as elusive as it's rewarding. Known for its exclusive, super-intimate tasting menu inspired by ramen, this very expensive yet highly-rated spot (4.7 on Google) is a culinary gem cherished by both locals and tourists alike. Despite its casual and cozy atmosphere, getting a seat here can be a challenge, with only ten seats available and openings just two nights a week.

The husband-and-wife team behind this venture ensures guests feel a personal connection, creating a technically flawless and deeply intimate experience. Their innovative approach to Japanese cuisine results in standout dishes like ramen and a coffee basque-style cheesecake that are both original and inventive.

Diners can indulge in their offerings with a selection of alcohol and beer while enjoying either a solo dining moment or sharing their experience with fellow culinary enthusiasts. Though reservations are required, the effort pays off in a setting that's perfect for those seeking a fashionably unique and high-end experience.

Price

$$$$ 100+ $

Meals

Breakfast, Dinner

Cuisines

Japanese

Services

Takeaway, Reservations available, Dine-in, Reservations required, Reservations recommended

Offering

Serving alcohol, Serving desserts, Serving beer

Payment

Payment by credit card, Payment by debit card, NFC payment

4.7

based on 59 reviews

Google

4.7/5 59 reviews

Brian Thompson

Food: 5
Service: 5
Atmosphere: 5

The best part? It feels personal. The husband-and-wife team (Yoko & Clint) talk you through the dishes with warmth, not pretension. The restaurant is tiny, the kitchen looms in front of you, and that closeness makes eating there feel like being part of something rare.

Leo Gomez

Delicious!!!

anatte litvak

Food: 5
Service: 5
Atmosphere: 5

"Stupidly Good" We had dinner at Noodle in a Haystack last night, and we're still trying to wrap our heads around what we experienced. We made a point to go in completely blind - no food photos, no PR, no reviews. And I’m so glad we did. From the very first bite, we knew we were in for something special. I don’t usually write reviews, but we’ve been lucky enough to dine at many of the world’s top restaurants - both on and off the 50 Best list and Michelin guide. I mention that only to give some context. In a world where many fine dining chefs follow a well-trodden path - culinary school, staging, and years perfecting classical techniques - Chefs Clint and Yoko (both ex-corporate, entirely self-taught) are rewriting the rules. Together with Patty, their small but mighty team delivers a 2.5-hour dining experience that’s completely original, technically flawless, and deeply intimate. Every element - from pacing to presentation - feels intentional and meticulously considered. And then there’s the food. There wasn’t a single dish that didn’t completely blow us away. The textures (shoutout to the chawanmushi, wagyu salumi, and that absolutely insane lobster stuffed, uni topped milk bread donut) were unlike anything we’ve ever tasted. The ramen was the best we’ve had outside of Japan. The coffee basque-style cheesecake rivaled what we’ve had in San Sebastián. And the sake and wine pairings were spot-on, perfectly complementing flavor combinations that are wildly inventive and clearly the result of countless hours of obsessive R&D. The restaurant currently seats 10 and is only open two nights a week - making reservations extremely hard to come by - so if you don’t get one right away, keep trying. It’s absolutely worth the effort and the cost. I can confidently say this is my favorite restaurant in San Francisco, and I can’t wait to experience what they dream up and serve next.

What is the address of Noodle In A Haystack?
Noodle In A Haystack is located at 4601 Geary Blvd, 94118, San Francisco, Richmond District, USA.
How to get here by public transport?
The nearest public transport options provide quick and easy access:
- Bus stop Geary Blvd & 6th Ave (411 m walk)
- Bus stop 6th Ave & Geary Blvd (400 m walk)
- Bus stop Geary Blvd & Park Presidio Blvd (348 m walk)
- Bus station Park Presidio Blvd & Geary Blvd (333 m walk)
How is Noodle In A Haystack rated by visitors?
Noodle In A Haystack has an average rating of 4.7 based on 59 reviews across platforms such as Google, Facebook.
What is the average price for a meal at Noodle In A Haystack?
The average price for a meal is 100+ $ (it is very expensive - $$$$).

Noodle In A Haystack in San Francisco