TK Noodle #1 Introduce
For California locals, especially those in the Silicon Valley region craving authentic, budget-friendly Asian cuisine, **TK Noodle #1** in San Jose is a highly recognized and longstanding institution. This establishment is much more than just a noodle shop; it serves as a culinary bridge, offering a robust menu that prominently features both Vietnamese and Chinese culinary traditions. It’s a place where the focus is firmly on fast service, large portions, and consistent, satisfying flavors, making it a reliable fixture in the casual dining landscape.
The core of TK Noodle #1’s appeal lies in its dedication to classic noodle and rice dishes. While many know it as a Chinese-Vietnamese fusion spot, it excels particularly with its Southern Vietnamese specialties, such as its signature Hu Tieu—a savory and slightly sweet pork-based noodle soup that stands out from the more common Pho. The atmosphere is authentically casual, designed for diners seeking a quick, hearty meal rather than a lengthy, high-end experience.
TK Noodle #1 is conveniently situated at **261 E William St, San Jose, CA 95112, USA**, placing it strategically near the heart of downtown San Jose and within easy access of the San Jose State University (SJSU) campus. This location makes it a popular destination for students, faculty, and local workers looking for an affordable lunch or dinner option.
The restaurant offers multiple parking solutions, an important convenience in the busy downtown area. Guests can utilize the **free parking lot** available on-site, a significant benefit for drivers. Additionally, **free street parking** is often available, though patrons should allow a few extra minutes to find a spot, especially during peak meal times.
In terms of physical access, the venue is committed to accessibility, featuring a **wheelchair accessible entrance**, **wheelchair accessible parking lot**, and a **wheelchair accessible restroom**, ensuring a welcoming experience for all patrons in the California region.
The establishment's operational model is geared towards efficiency and catering to a diverse range of dining preferences, from a quick solo meal to an order for the whole family.
- Dine-in: Offering casual seating and table service in a relaxed environment.
- Takeout: Orders are prepared quickly for customers needing a fast meal on the go.
- Delivery: Partnered with various services for convenient home or office delivery across the San Jose area.
- Table Service: Staff manage dining room needs once seated.
- High Chairs: Available to accommodate families dining with small children.
TK Noodle #1 has cemented its status in San Jose by focusing on specific features that resonate with its loyal customer base, emphasizing value, speed, and flavor consistency.
- Specialty Noodle Soups: Highly regarded for its soups, including the extensive menu of Rice Stick Soup (Hu Tieu), Noodle Soup (Mi), and Vermicelli Soup (Bun) options. Fan favorites often include the Hu Tieu Hoanh Thanh (Combination Wonton Rice Stick) and Mi Hoanh Thanh (Combination Wonton Noodle Soup).
- Variety of Chow Mein and Rice Dishes: Beyond soups, the menu features substantial stir-fried options like Hu Tieu Xao (Combination Chow Fun), Mi Xao (Combination Chow Mein), and various fried rice plates such as Com Chien.
- Affordable Price Point: Customers consistently praise the restaurant for providing solid portions and great value, making it an excellent choice for budget-conscious dining. Many of the main dishes are priced to be highly accessible.
- Speed and Efficiency: Orders are typically processed and served quickly, which is ideal for patrons with limited time, such as students between classes or professionals on a short lunch break.
- Casual, No-Frills Atmosphere: The setting is informal and functional, popular among solo diners and those prioritizing food quality over elaborate ambiance. It retains an "old school vibes" and cozy feel, according to customer feedback.
- Unique Flour Cake Appetizers: Offers distinctive side dishes like Banh Bot Chien Trung (Fried Egg Flour Cake) and Banh Cu Cai Chien Trung (Fried Daikon Egg Flour Cake), providing a unique textural and savory element to the meal.
- Extensive Drink Menu: In addition to standard sodas and juices, the restaurant serves traditional Vietnamese beverages like Coffee Sua Da (Ice Milk Coffee), Tra Sua da (Ice Milk Tea), and a wide selection of fruit shakes and pearl drinks (e.g., Pearl Taro, Pearl Honeydew).
The restaurant welcomes new and returning customers at the following address and contact details:
Address: 261 E William St, San Jose, CA 95112, USA
Phone: (408) 297-8888
Mobile Phone: +1 408-297-8888
For California residents new to the venue, TK Noodle #1 is primarily worth choosing for its consistent and flavorful noodle soup broth, which patrons describe as highly reliable in temperature and taste—a key factor for a satisfying bowl of soup. The combination dishes offer excellent value, providing a mix of meats, seafood, and wontons at an affordable price point. If you enjoy a rich, Southern Vietnamese-style broth that is clear and pork-based, the *Hu Tieu* options are a must-try alternative to the more ubiquitous Pho.
It is important to note, however, that the restaurant operates as a strictly **Cash-only** business, so patrons should plan accordingly before visiting. While the service is known to be functional and quick rather than overly warm or attentive, the trade-off is efficient dining and delicious, budget-friendly food that has kept customers driving in from across the East Bay and beyond for over two decades. If you are looking for a fast, flavorful, and filling Asian meal that consistently 'hits the spot' without an extravagant price tag, TK Noodle #1 remains a highly recommended, authentic choice in the San Jose dining scene.
TK Noodle #1 Menu
Rice Stick Soup
- Hu Tieu $9.00
combination rice stick soup
- Hu Tieu Sate $9.00
beef sate rice stick
- Hu Tieu Hoanh Thanh $11.50
combination wonton rice stick
- Hu Tieu Bo Vien $9.00
beef ball rice stick soup
- Hu Tieu Bo Kho $9.00
beef stew rice stick
- Hu Tieu Mi $9.00
combination rice stick/noodle
- Hu Tieu-Mi Bo Kho $9.00
beef stew rice stick/noodle
Noodle Soup
- Mi $9.00
combination noodle soup
- Mi Hoanh Thanh $11.50
combination wonton noodle soup
- Mi Bo Vien $9.00
beef ball noodle soup
- Mi Bo Kho $9.00
beef stew noodle
Vermicelli Soup
- Bun $9.00
combination vermicelli soup
- Bun Cari Vit $9.00
vermicelli duck curry soup
- Bun Bo Vien $9.00
beef ball vermicelli soup
- Bun Bo Kho $9.00
beef stew vermicelli
- Bun-Mi Bo Kho $9.00
beef stew vermicelli/noodle
- Bun Mi $9.00
combination vermicelli/noodle
Soup
- Hoanh Thanh $9.00
wonton soup
- Bo Vien $9.00
beef ball soup
- Chao Thap Cam $9.00
combination porridge
Chow Mein
- Hu Tieu Xao $10.00
combination chow fun
- Mi Xao $10.00
combination chow mein
- Mi Xao Don Thap Cam $10.00
combination crispy fried noodle
- Com Xao Thap Cam $10.00
combination over rice
- Com Trang Xao Tom $10.50
soy sauce shrimp over rice
- Com Xao Thit Heo $10.00
soy sauce pork over rice
- Com Chien $10.00
fried rice
Flour Cake
- Banh Bot Chien Trung $9.00
fried egg flour cake
- Banh Cu Cai Chien Trung $9.00
fried daikon egg flour cake
- Banh Khoai Mon Chien Trung $9.00
fried taro egg flour cake
Drinks
- Coffee Da
ice coffee
- Coffee Den
coffee
- Coffee Sua
hot milk coffee
- Coffee Sua Da
ice milk coffee
- Tra da Chanh
ice lemonade tea
- Tra Sua da
ice milk tea
- Tra Sua Nong
hot milk tea
- Da Chanh
fresh ice lemonade
- Chanh Xi Mui
salted plum lemonade
- Soda Chanh
soda lemonade
- Soda Xi Mui
soda salted plum lemonade
- Soda Sua Hot Ga
soda egg milk
- Cam Vat
fresh orange juice
- Nhan Nhuc
long nhan
- Sua Dau Nanh
soy bean drink
- Three Color Bean Drink
- Jelly Tapioca Seed
- Coconut Juice
- Coke
- Seven Up
- Simply Orange
- Root Beer
- Apple Juice
- Snapple
- Tamarindo
- Fresha/Fruit Punch
- Sangria
- Mandarina
- Budweiser
- Michelob
- Heineken
- Tsingtao
- Strawberry Shake
- Thai Ice Tea
- Pearl Thai Tea
- Pearl Taro
- Pearl Honeydew
TK Noodle #1 Details
Service options
- Delivery
- Takeout
- Dine-in
Popular for
- Solo dining
Accessibility
- Wheelchair accessible entrance
- Wheelchair accessible parking lot
- Wheelchair accessible restroom
Dining options
- Seating
- Table service
Amenities
- Restroom
Atmosphere
- Casual
Payments
- Cash-only
Children
- High chairs
Parking
- Free parking lot
- Free street parking
- Parking
TK Noodle #1 Photos










TK Noodle #1 Location
TK Noodle #1
261 E William St, San Jose, CA 95112, USA
TK Noodle #1 Reviews
cashpricequick servicehousenoodle souphu tieurice noodlesbrothcampuschow fun
★ 5★ 4★ 3★ 2★ 1TK Noodle is just a short drive from campus, which makes it convenient when you’re looking for a quick bite on a budget. The menu has a decent variety—plenty of noodle soups, rice plates, and stir-fry options that are flavorful enough to satisfy a craving without breaking the bank. The portions are solid for the price, especially for college students or anyone just passing through.That said, be ready for a few trade-offs. First, this place is cash only, which can catch you off guard if you’re not prepared. Second, there’s a strange foul smell right outside the restaurant—not sure if it’s from nearby plumbing or trash—but it’s pretty noticeable and does affect your first impression walking in.Inside, the service is basic and not overly friendly, but it gets the job done. Don’t expect a warm welcome or check-ins during your meal—it’s more of an “order, eat, and go” kind of place. Ambiance is minimal, with tight seating and a bit of noise, but the food usually comes out fast and hot.✅ What we liked:• Good value for the price• Quick turnaround on orders• Close to San Jose State and other city spots• Flavorful broth in the noodle soups⚠️ What could improve:• That smell outside needs to be addressed• Service could be more welcoming• Add card payment options (even a mobile pay option would help)• Maybe offer more lunch combos or dealsIf you’re in a rush, carrying cash, and craving something warm and salty, TK Noodle is a solid 3-star choice. It gets the job done, just don’t expect anything fancy or five-star service.📍 Parking tip: Street parking can be tough near meal times—give yourself a few extra minutes.💬 Follow us for no-fluff reviews that actually help you decide where to eat next.
August 17 · Ed K WoodsThis is my favorite TK place to go and eat. Their soup is pretty consistent with the flavors and how hot the soup is. Some places depending on the cook, time or day is very inconsistent. Sometimes the soup is plain and comes out warm. I would give the service a five-star if the staff would smile or be more friendly but I know in restaurant business is kind of hard sometimes. And the atmosphere is pretty clean and nice, but to get a five-star it has to be extraordinary. Overall highly recommended place to eat and plenty of parking in the back.
August 26 · Volark KeoThis is the original TK location and always hits the spot. Great value for your money and consistent taste every time with service as expected. Pleasant eating area inside that I’ve enjoyed a few time but typically take my meals to go. Conveniently located near campus. Can’t go wrong with the OG TK!!!
September 18 · Marty DeLaatI have been to many TK Noodles in the Bay Area San Jose. I frequently visit the one on Story and this Downtown Location. Number 3, 8, and 9 are the Family Favorites!🙃😋 Hu Tieu and Mi Wonton Noodles soup are always my go-to items. Spicy, Flavorful, and perfect portions! We had Vegetable Prawn rice platter, Combination Chow -Mein and Chow-Fun. I love this Cozy, Warm, Modern interior at this location. It got this cool, Peaceful, and old school vibes that I totally enjoyed. Lovely Views also, Especially this one is the closest to my home!
March 15 · Thia LeTK Noodle was a staple growing up.Their noodle soup and their stir fry is super nostalgic for me and my family.This time around, I ordered for doordash pick up. Food was ready pretty quickly.Flavors were still relatively there. Portions have gone down and prices have gone up, but at least the base taste was still there.Street parking available at this spot.Might be due to dine in soon!
June 16 · Arthur T
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