Noodle in a Haystack 4601 Geary Boulevard, San Francisco, CA 94118

"It is challenging for me to describe how much passion and effort they put into the quality of their food. When I first arrived outside the restaurant, everyone patiently waited for the door to open on the dot. When the door opens, we are warmly greeted inside and check in promptly. There was a space on the right side to hang our coats and store our umbrellas since the rain was torrential. When I first sat down, I noticed how vast and spacious the restaurant was, with a beautiful large countertop leading to an open kitchen. The first course came, and despite how assuming it looked, that single bite packed such a large amount of flavor that I knew it was going to be a lovely evening. The subsequent dishes that followed were also not what it seemed, but the flavor did not clash for me. I had plenty of sake pairing during the meal that you never thought would work with that dish, but the pairing was pretty on point. I had lots of new sake I had never drunk before, and I had taken plenty of photos of each bottle so I could find it later when I wanted to. The owners are amiable when conversing with everyone and answering questions on the dish in particular or if they have any recommendations on another restaurant they like. It is not an experience I can elaborate on in detail, but rather, you have to experience it to know how different it is from all the restaurants I have experienced in the Bay Area. I will return to try their dishes when they rotate them again for the spring time."

"Absolutely phenomenal experience. The food was outstanding - I’ll never forget the cold ramen with Wagyu, it was a defining culinary experience for me. I hope to be back soon. Come hungry, it’s a lot of delicious food!"

"If you've grown tired of traditional ramen, you must give this understated ramen shop a try. Every dish is crafted with great care. If you opt for the additional sake pairing with your meal, each dish comes with its own sake match. The owner is attentive, providing detailed explanations of each dish's ingredients and preparation process, along with insights into the sake selections and their flavors. The dining experience goes beyond just eating; you gain knowledge about various ingredients while enjoying a delightful meal. The owner is sociable, and with only 12 guests served at a time, the atmosphere is relaxed, akin to dining with friends. It's a feast for both the eyes and taste buds—a culinary delight that ramen enthusiasts shouldn't miss."

"It is a fun dining experience for sure There are only 12 seats and you must make reservations and pay before you can walk in and dine The food is legit and the chef / owner go over each dish with a story All dishes are very delicate, sake pairing is excellent too"

"Such a great and memorable dinner. Each portion had a unique idea and beautiful presentation. I really like how textures/flavors are mixed in each plate; crispy & soft, sweet & spicy etc. Noodles are specially crafted for this ramen and they fit perfectly with soup. It was definitely a thing we can only enjoy at Noodle in a Haystack. Not even in Japan! Also, we loved having conversations with Clint and Yoko, and hearing about how they came up with these great dishes."