Noodles in Washington, DC

“Food: 9.5 out of 10
Service: 4.5 out of 5
Atmosphere: 5 out of 5
Price/Value: 4.5 out of 5
Overall: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 4.7 out of 5

Recommendations: Truffle Shoyu, Triple Threat, Chicken Karage

This is probably the best ramen place I’ve been to in the U.S. The place is kind of small, but trust me the wait is worth it. They have truly incredible ramen that will make me miss them so much after I leave D.C. If you prefer lighter broth I recommend the truffle shoyu, if you prefer richer broth I recommend the triple threat. They are both so delicious. Every component of the ramen is perfect, and when they combine all you feel is happiness. The chicken karage is very good too, the portion is huge and it’s not that expensive. I’m so happy that I discovered this treasure place, and I will DEFINITELY visit again! Best food I’ve had in D.C.“

“Great service! Food came out piping hot in less than 10 minutes. I had veggie spring rolls and my son had the shrimp pho. Both were delicious although I personally could’ve used more flavor in the pho. Love the decor and was able to find street parking right out back. Mind you, it was the middle of the day on a Friday. Wasn’t too busy inside but the ambience and music was nice.“

“I absolutely love Bonkers! I keep coming back for the cold noodles and wontons! I agree the Chinese burgers fall short of their potential but just get anything else on the menu! Very authentic feel and smell to a comparable spot in China. Definitely a place i could eat at everyday. Love that dc is finally getting authentic Chinese in Chinatown!“

“We've been buying these dumplings from Costco for the past year and love them. We were so excited to find a storefront. The food was so good! We ordered the pork bao bun and the pork and chive dumplings. Prices were reasonable and the portions are perfect for sampling.“

“A favorite neighborhood spot“

“This place has definitely improved.It use to smell really bad but that has changed. The menu changed and for the better. The popcorn chicken is really good, as well as the orange and fish! The friend rice isn’t great. The mango chicken has way too much sauce. Regardless, I would definitely recommend this place.“

“We’ve ordered pho to go before and tonight we dined in and ordered rice platter and vermicelli. I’m pleased to say this is one of the very solid Asian restaurants I’ve ever been to. And definitely one of the top in DC. I highly recommend and this will be one of our regular restaurants to go to since we live close by.“

“Above and beyond anything I've had food-wise in DC. First of all, the prices are incredible for the area and the portions are also solid. The beef rice bowls I are PERFECT. The vegetables are delicious, the meat is well-seasoned, the rice is cooked to perfection, and it has just the right amount of both sauce and spice. I'm also a bubble tea fiend and the matcha bubble tea is consistently tasty and mixed very well.
The staff I've spoken to are very personable and sweet, too. Service is incredibly efficient, but not so jarringly quick that it's clearly just taking stuff out of the back and throwing it into a bag. They take the time to prepare your food well. This little place is so, SO worth it.“

“I am sure Korean food is the best when tasted in Korea. That's why I'm not a big fan of Korean restaurants abroad. However this one, Rice Bar in DC satisfied me for real. 다만 제 느낌에 1회용 숫가락이 좀더 크면 좋겠고 젓가락에 일본어 적힌 점이 아쉽.. 그래도 또 들리고 싶네요.“

“Bandoola Bowl at Western Market, is a gem for quick and flavorful meals. I frequent the place whenever I run errands nearby and am always impressed. My go-to is the pork spicy noodle bowl, which never disappoints. The roasted pork pairs beautifully with fresh, crunchy cabbage, romaine, onions, tomatoes, red bell peppers, cilantro, and lime. The crispy garlic and fried shallots add a satisfying texture, and the sweet soya sauce ties everything together perfectly.

One of the standout features is the staff—they’re incredibly friendly, chatty in the best way, and always welcoming. They make sure to ask about spice preferences and potential food allergies, adjusting ingredients accordingly, which makes every visit personalized and thoughtful. The restaurant is also impeccably clean, and the service is quick and efficient, so I’m never waiting too long. If you’re looking for a delicious, fresh meal with great service, Bandoola Bowl is the perfect stop.“

“If you’re in search of authentic Thai cuisine, look no further than this hidden gem. Tucked away like a best-kept secret, this unassuming spot delivers food that is as delicious as its artful presentation. Each dish is meticulously crafted by the talented Thai chef/owner, whose passion for authentic flavors shines through every bite. The flavor reminded me of homemade food in Thailand.

The service is impeccable, adding to the experience, with the server/bartender who made as feel like valued guests in a cozy, bright and cheerful space. In a neighborhood increasingly filled with gentrified spots, this place is a refreshing reminder of what real, freshly made food should be. I wish I lived here just for the opportunity to dine at this incredible restaurant more often!“

“Food was excellent and the space is really pretty! Great place for vegans. There aren't specifically vegan items but many menu items can be made vegan, just ask your server, ours was very knowledgeable and quick to check with the chef to make sure a dish could be made vegan. We had a great time and will definitely be back!“

“I am sure Korean food is the best when tasted in Korea. That's why I'm not a big fan of Korean restaurants abroad. However this one, Rice Bar in DC satisfied me for real. 다만 제 느낌에 1회용 숫가락이 좀더 크면 좋겠고 젓가락에 일본어 적힌 점이 아쉽.. 그래도 또 들리고 싶네요.“

“this was the BEST pho I’ve ever had!! I got their Banh Mirria Sandwich, and it was the most delicious thing i ate all week. The bread was soft and fresh, the beef and cheese were scrumptious. Highly recommend! I’ll be following them around the US for the rest of my life“

“This place had been on my list for a while now and finally had the chance to dine in. The food was so flavorful and well cooked. The service was excellent. Will definitely return to try more different items. Good portion sizes too! The desserts looked amazing, I will certainly save room for a piece of cake next time.“

“I am sure Korean food is the best when tasted in Korea. That's why I'm not a big fan of Korean restaurants abroad. However this one, Rice Bar in DC satisfied me for real. 다만 제 느낌에 1회용 숫가락이 좀더 크면 좋겠고 젓가락에 일본어 적힌 점이 아쉽.. 그래도 또 들리고 싶네요.“

“I brought my friend who has lived in Thailand and she told me that their food is very authentic. I knew it was different from most of the Thai food I have tried in the past. You can just tell from the nuance taste. Only real locals can make that difference.“

“Had the general tso’s chicken and my wife got the hunan chicken with lo mein. It was delicious! I’ve been looking for a simple neighborhood Chinese spot with classic dishes for years. Finally found my place, will definitely be coming back.“