Introduction
If you’re searching for delicious, customizable noodle bowls in Berkeley, Toss Noodle Bar delivers a satisfying Asian fusion experience. Located at 2272 Shattuck Avenue, this casual noodle shop allows you to build and customize your own bowl—choosing noodle type, base (soup or rice), sauce, protein, and toppings. With speedy service, generous portions, and robust flavors, Toss Noodle Bar is popular among locals and students alike.
What Makes Toss Noodle Bar Unique?
Build-Your-Own Concept
At Toss Noodle Bar, customization is key:
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Choose your noodle or rice base
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Select a sauce or soup style
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Add your preferred protein (chicken, tofu, beef, shrimp, or vegetarian)
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Include additional toppings (vegetables, peanuts, egg, etc.)
This hands-on approach allows nearly endless flavor combinations. Moreover, they accommodate dietary preferences with vegan and allergy-friendly modifications—just ask to omit egg or fish sauce.
Menu Highlights & Popular Dishes
Signature Bowls & Standouts
The community consistently praises dishes such as:
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House garlic noodles with Malay sauce—rich, buttery, and perfect for sharing
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Hokkien noodles with Thai sauce or spicy combo meats—full-flavored and hearty
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Pad See Ew and rice-based bowls like pineapple fried rice, with customizable spice and protein levels
The menu also includes noodle soups like Tom Yum vermicelli, stir-fried options, and sides like prawn chips and lumpia.
Dining Experience & Atmosphere
Fast, Casual & College-Friendly
Located in downtown Berkeley near UC Berkeley, Toss Noodle Bar offers fast, counter-service ordering with meals arriving in about 10 minutes. Most meals easily serve two people, making it ideal for sharing.
Seating is compact but includes quirky raised platforms with small tables. However, some diners have noted a strong bathroom odor and limited indoor air circulation—worth considering before your visit.
Customer Feedback
Ratings & Reviews
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Wanderlog and Yelp give Toss a solid 4.4/5 stars based on hundreds of reviews
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Reviewers highlight the speed of service, friendly staff, and consistently flavorful meals—especially the garlic noodles, spicy combos, and quick customization
Common Praise
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Deep, rich flavors and portion sizes that are often shareable directly from the bowl
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Welcoming vegetarian and vegan modifications upon request
Minor Drawbacks
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Crowded at peak times; seating may be limited
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Some customers report strong bathroom or alleyway odors near dining area entrances
Location & Hours
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Address: 2272 Shattuck Ave, Berkeley, CA 94704
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Hours: Typically open daily from 11:00 AM to 10:00 PM (confirm before visiting).
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Payment: Credit cards accepted. No reservations; seating is first-come, first-served.
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Parking: Street parking only; tricky near UC Berkeley areas.
Great for Families and Groups
For families dining with kids, the customizable menu means options for picky eaters—plain noodles or simple peanut-sauce bowls work well. Portions can be shared easily, which helps with kids or small appetites. Wine and beer are also available for adults.
Tips Before You Go
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Arrive before noon or early evening to avoid the lunch/dinner rush.
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Don’t hesitate to ask staff for guidance if menu options are confusing.
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For dietary needs, explicitly request vegan or allergen modifications.
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Prepare for quick seating and clean tables yourself post-meal.
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Bring cash just in case takeaway fees apply for boxes or bags.
Conclusion
Toss Noodle Bar offers a fast, flavorful, and flexible dining experience in Berkeley through its build-your-own noodle concept and hearty Asian fusion dishes. With standout bowls like house garlic noodles and customizable spicy combos, it delivers both comfort and creativity. While seating is modest and ambiance can vary, the overall value and convenience make it a popular choice for students, locals, and noodle enthusiasts.
Next Steps:
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Check current menu and opening hours online.
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Plan your build: choose noodle, sauce, protein, and toppings.
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Visit early to avoid crowds and get a good seat.
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Try sharing a garlic noodle bowl for two.
