Flavour Report with Derek Goforth: Surprises and setbacks at Geraldton’s Noodler’s Noodle and O’Ba-San Sushi

It had been quite some time since our last visit to Noodler’s Noodle and O’Ba-San Sushi and we were eager to see if it still lived up to our expectations. Fortunately, we were pleased with our decision to return, despite a few setbacks. Located on Marine Terrace, finding the noodle bar was a breeze, and ample parking made it convenient for us. However, upon arriving at the takeaway itself, we couldn’t help but notice that it was quite run down and in dire need of some major renovations. To our disappointment, we were informed by the server that they weren’t serving sushi that evening, which was unexpected for a place that prides itself on being a sushi takeaway. Nevertheless, we decided to stick with it and opted for the katsu chicken, tempura prawn meal and veggie fried rice. The price tag, at just under $60, seemed a bit on the dear side, especially considering the portion sizes, which were not exactly generous. However, we hoped the taste would make up for it. The tempura prawn and katsu chicken dishes were highlights of the meal. Both were freshly prepared, with a satisfying crunch on the outside and delightful flavours. However, we found that both dishes lacked a sauce to enhance their overall taste. The mayo provided with the katsu chicken only went so far, leaving us longing for more depth in flavour and moisture. On the other hand, the veggie fried rice was a delightful surprise. It was packed with an impressive variety of vegetables, so much so that I lost count. While it was a bit greasy, the dish made up for it with its rich umami flavour. I would recommend paying a visit to Noodler’s Noodle and O’Ba-San Sushi, despite its shortcomings. However, be sure to request additional sauces to accompany your dishes, as they can enhance the overall experience. The place itself could benefit from a spruce-up, but if you’re in the mood for some tasty takeaway, it’s worth a try.