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Noodlelove
Master Critic Review
Noodlelove
8.2
Noodlelove, relaunched as Umma by Noodlelove in 2020, serves Korean-influenced rice and noodle bowls in a casual Nolita space with counter ordering and limited seating. With hundreds of reviews emphasizing gluten-free and vegan options, it functions as a dependable, healthier-feeling Korean comfort stop for neighborhood diners.
Must-Try Dishes:
KBBQ Fried Rice, Kimchi Bap, Umma's Curry
Scores:
Value: 7.8
Service: 6.4
Consistency: 8.2
Food Quality: 8.6
Atmosphere: 7.9
Cultural Relevance: 7.4
What makes it special: Korean-inspired bowls with purple rice, kimchi, and gluten-free options in a casual Nolita setting.
Who should go: Health-conscious diners wanting customizable Korean-ish bowls and noodles.
When to visit: Midday or early evening for shorter lines and easier seating.
What to order: KBBQ Fried Rice, kimchi bap, Umma's Curry with add-on Korean fried chicken.
Insider tip: Bowls travel well—many locals order delivery, but eating in lets you customize toppings more easily.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking is limited in Nolita; expect metered spots to be scarce during meal times. No valet or dedicated lot.
Dress code: Casual and comfortable—athleisure, jeans, and everyday wear are all appropriate.
Noise level: Low to moderate—counter-service buzz but generally easy for conversation.
Weekend wait: 10–20 minutes depending on delivery pickup crowds; seating is limited but turnover is fast.
Weekday lunch: Usually no wait, though lines may form briefly during peak noon rush.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes—multiple bowls can be made vegetarian, and several bases and toppings are plant-forward.
Vegan options: Yes—there are a few fully vegan configurations, particularly rice bowls with tofu or veggie add-ons.
Gluten-free options: Strong options—many bowls use gluten-free bases and sauces, and staff are accustomed to GF requests.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Only if you're aiming for a casual, low-pressure meetup. The counter-service format and quick pacing make it better for a relaxed bite than a linger-and-chat date.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes—it's walk-in only. Just note that seating is limited; if it's busy, expect to hover for a few minutes or consider takeout.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes—simple bowls, mild sauces, and quick service work well for families. Best for kids 5+ who can manage counter seating; no high chairs or stroller-friendly layout.
Best For
Better for: Fast, healthier-feeling Korean comfort bowls with strong gluten-free and customizable options in a quick-service setting.
Skip if: You want a full-service Korean meal, barbecue experience, or a leisurely sit-down environment—nearby restaurants with larger dining rooms will serve better for that.