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Chic n' Time
Master Critic Reviews (2 Lists)
Chic n' Time
7.6
Casual Asian noodle and chicken shop with Chinese-style garlic noodles alongside Southeast Asian plates. A quick, affordable stop for carb-cravings on Valencia.
Must-Try Dishes:
Garlic Noodles, Chicken Wings, Wonton Soup
Scores:
Value: 8.4
Service: 7.6
Consistency: 7.7
Food Quality: 7.8
Atmosphere: 6.8
Cultural Relevance: 7.2
What makes it special: Garlic-forward noodle plates and wings at wallet-friendly prices.
Who should go: Casual noodle and wing fans
When to visit: Mid-afternoon for minimal lines
What to order: Garlic noodles, wings, wonton soup
Insider tip: Add a side of chili oil to punch up the noodles.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking only, usually available within a block during off-hours but competitive evenings on Valencia.
Dress code: Casual—jeans, t-shirts, and sneakers are perfectly fine.
Noise level: Moderate—conversation possible but the small space and music can raise the volume during peak hours.
Weekend wait: 15–25 minutes during peak hours; turnover is fairly quick.
Weekday lunch: Typically no wait, especially mid-afternoon.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes—garlic noodles, veggie sides, and fried rice can be made vegetarian.
Vegan options: Limited—customizable noodle bowls without protein; ask for no egg or dairy.
Gluten-free options: Minimal—most noodles and sauces contain gluten, though rice plates are safer.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Not ideal for a first date—it’s more of a quick, casual spot than a sit-down experience. Better suited for a low-key, no-fuss meetup.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes, they don’t take reservations. Most diners grab a quick table or take food to-go; expect short waits only during rush hours.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes—portions are generous, flavors approachable, and there’s no formal atmosphere. Best for school-age kids and families grabbing a quick meal.
Best For
Better for: Quick, budget-friendly noodle bowls and wings with bold flavors, served faster than sit-down Chinese restaurants nearby.
Skip if: Skip if you’re looking for a drawn-out dinner, refined ambiance, or extensive menu—this is designed for speed and value.
Chic n' Time
7.9
Chicken-forward Vietnamese-Asian spot known for garlicky noodles, poached chicken, and quick counter service on the Valencia corridor. Locals use it for efficient dinners or takeout that still lands bright, clean flavors.
Must-Try Dishes:
Garlic Noodles with Five-Spice Chicken, Poached Chicken Noodle Soup, Salt & Pepper Wings
Scores:
Value: 8.4
Service: 7.8
Consistency: 8
Food Quality: 8.2
Atmosphere: 6.8
Cultural Relevance: 7.6
What makes it special: Chicken-centric Vietnamese plates with fast, reliable execution.
Who should go: Busy diners craving noodles and chicken
When to visit: Early dinner before Valencia peak
What to order: Garlic noodles; chicken noodle soup; wings
Insider tip: Call ahead for takeout to skip the evening line.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking only; metered spots nearby but limited after 6pm on Valencia.
Dress code: Casual — come as you are; jeans, tees, and sneakers are the norm.
Noise level: Low to moderate — easy to carry a conversation without shouting.
Weekend wait: 10–20 minutes during peak 7–8pm window.
Weekday lunch: No wait, usually immediate seating or fast counter pickup.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes — garlic noodles, tofu dishes, and some sides are vegetarian-friendly.
Vegan options: Limited — garlic noodles can be made vegan, plus a few side options.
Gluten-free options: Some dishes can be made gluten-free; rice plates are safe, but ask about sauces.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Not ideal — the setup is more functional than atmospheric, better suited for casual bites than romance.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes — it’s counter-service only, no reservations needed; peak times may have a short line.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes for older kids — quick food and casual vibe; no high chairs or play space, so not ideal for toddlers.
Best For
Better for: Faster, cheaper chicken-focused Vietnamese plates than full-service sit-down restaurants nearby.
Skip if: You’re looking for a romantic date spot, cocktails, or a long, leisurely dinner.