Noodlecat Happy Hour

I first visited Chef Sawyer's downtown Noodlecat during a CLEDinnerClub event a few months ago, but Sunday led "R" and I there for some takeout on our way home from running errands. Little did I know, it was Happy Hour.

Noodlecat offers Happy Hour from 3PM-7PM Monday through Saturday, but on Sunday it is available from 11AM-11PM. This means $5 half portions of noodles, $2 steam buns, and an array of drink specials. So, for just $21 we walked away with two orders of noodles, two steam buns, one beer, and tax/tip.

We noshed on the steam buns, and Rick enjoyed a beer, while we waited for the noodles to go. For $2 each, we shared the BBQ Pulled Pork with pickled onions, slaw, and scallions.

We also split the Japanese Fried Chicken with buttermilk crunchies and Iceberg.

I enjoyed the fried chicken steam bun more. The pork was a little dry, and the flavor of the meat seasoning wasn't anything special. I wouldn't get that one again. Both buns were enough for us to each have about two good bites. I do wish the bun itself had been a little warmer.

But, the real star of Noodlecat is the noodles. After having some amazing udon at the dinner event, I couldn't wait to have more. The Happy Hour special is for a half portion, and I ordered the Hokkaido Ramen with roasted pork, butter, chili oil, and creamed corn in a miso corn broth. "R" had the Crispy Beef Short Rib Ramen with kim chee pork broth, super dashi, and sweet sour short ribs.

A half portion, in addition to our bites of steam buns, was enough food for dinner and just $5 (Dining Deals Alert!). I liked the milder flavor of my broth better, but "R's" dish had more contents. The pork was barely there in my ramen.

I know that people have complained about the price point. Personally, I think $11 for a full portion of noodles is reasonable. The ingredients are quality (the noodles are made by local Ohio City Pasta--yum), and the regular size is worth that, in my opinion. But, if the price still turns you off--then I suggest checking out their Happy Hour. I thought it was a good deal, and love that Sunday offers 12 hours of specials.

I look forward to getting my "slurp" on again.

Noodlecat
234 Euclid Avenue
Cleveland, OH 44114
216-589-0007