0 Followers
N2 Pink Noodle
Master Critic Review
N2 Pink Noodle
8.3
This 2024 newcomer specializes in authentic Thai noodle soups with standout yen ta fo featuring vibrant pink broth made from fermented bean curd. The small, bright space serves boat noodles, pad see ew, and braised pork leg with notably fast service and freshly made fruit juices.
Must-Try Dishes:
Yen Ta Fo (Pink Noodle Soup), Boat Noodle Soup, Pad See Ew
Scores:
Value: 8.5
Service: 8.4
Consistency: 8
Food Quality: 8.7
Atmosphere: 7.6
Cultural Relevance: 8.2
What makes it special: Rare authentic yen ta fo and boat noodles hard to find elsewhere in LA
Who should go: Thai food enthusiasts seeking authentic regional specialties
When to visit: Lunch or early dinner weekdays for shortest waits
What to order: Yen ta fo, boat noodles, stewed pork leg
Insider tip: Try the passion fruit juice or butterfly pea lemonade
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking only - can be challenging in busy Koreatown. Nearby public lots within 2 blocks. Easier to find spots before 11:30am or after 2pm.
Dress code: Super casual - come as you are. Active wear, t-shirts totally fine for this quick noodle spot.
Noise level: Moderate - small space with 10-12 tables means some ambient chatter but you can easily hold conversation.
Weekend wait: 15-25 min typical - high turnover keeps it moving
Weekday lunch: Minimal to no wait, seats usually available
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Limited - 2-3 veggie noodle options available, mostly tofu-based. Not a primary focus.
Vegan options: Very limited - can request modifications but broth bases typically contain fish sauce. Best to confirm with staff.
Gluten-free options: Challenging - most dishes contain soy sauce and wheat noodles. Rice noodle options available but cross-contamination likely in small kitchen.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Better for 2nd or 3rd date when you're past initial formality. Casual, quick service vibe is more 'let's grab noodles' than romantic, but the unique pink broth makes for good conversation. Date-night alternative, not date-night destination.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes - they don't take reservations. It's first-come, first-served. Weekday lunch and early dinner (before 6pm) are your best bets for immediate seating. Weekend dinners expect 15-25 min wait but turnover is fast.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes for older kids (8+) who eat adventurously. The boat noodles and pad see ew are approachable, but the signature yen ta fo's fermented bean curd flavor is acquired. No high chairs spotted, tight space. Best for families with tweens/teens exploring Thai food.
Best For
Better for: Authentic regional Thai noodles you won't find at typical LA Thai spots - the yen ta fo alone is worth it for adventurous eaters. Better value and more authentic than tourist-trap Thai Town spots charging $$$ for pad thai.
Skip if: You want a full Thai menu with curries and stir-fries (this is noodle-focused), need extensive vegan/gluten-free options, or want a sit-down date-night atmosphere. For familiar Thai comfort food, Night + Market or Jitlada offer broader menus.