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Hai Ky Noodles
Master Critic Review
Hai Ky Noodles
8.3
Little Saigon stalwart known for Cantonese-Vietnamese noodle soups and a legendary braised duck leg wonton bowl. No-frills setting, big flavors, and prices that keep neighborhood regulars coming back.
Must-Try Dishes:
Braised duck leg with wonton egg noodles, House special wonton egg noodle soup, Beef stew noodle soup
Scores:
Value: 9
Service: 7.6
Consistency: 8.5
Food Quality: 8.4
Atmosphere: 6.2
Cultural Relevance: 8.6
What makes it special: Beloved Little Saigon noodle house with an iconic duck-leg soup.
Who should go: Noodle obsessives and soup-season devotees
When to visit: Late morning or mid-afternoon to skip lunch rush
What to order: Duck leg wonton; house wonton noodles; beef stew noodles
Insider tip: Ask for egg noodles ‘dry’ with broth on the side if you prefer less dilution.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Mostly metered street parking; spots can be tight in the Tenderloin. Best chance is on Larkin or Eddy before peak lunch hours.
Dress code: Casual—jeans, t-shirts, and everyday wear are the norm.
Noise level: Moderate—buzz of conversation and kitchen clatter, but you can carry on a chat without raising your voice.
Weekend wait: 10–20 minutes during peak times; tables turn fairly quickly.
Weekday lunch: Often immediate seating, though you may wait 5–10 minutes at the noon rush.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Limited—some vegetable and tofu noodle options exist, but not a focus.
Vegan options: Very limited—broths are typically meat-based, so customization is required.
Gluten-free options: Not ideal—egg noodles and wontons contain wheat; pho rice noodles can be substituted but broth may still have soy sauce.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Only if your date loves low-key, authentic food adventures. It’s more about flavor than ambiance.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes—this spot doesn’t take reservations. Walk-ins are the norm and turnover is fairly quick.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes for older kids who enjoy noodles; space is tight and no high chairs are available, so toddlers may be trickier.
Best For
Better for: Rich, comforting Cantonese-Vietnamese noodle soups and braised duck leg that outshine trendier competitors.
Skip if: You’re looking for a polished atmosphere, extensive vegetarian choices, or a formal dining experience.