In what formerly housed two Nothing But Noodles locations, a new fast casual restaurant has opened.
Ziggi's isn't a franchise like Nothing But Noodles, but it still serves noodle dishes — and oh so much more.
A glance at the menu will make you wonder how this place will be able to sustain such an extensive selection of pastas, Asian dishes, sandwiches, pizzas, salads and soups.
But after sampling a few items, you realize that the Ziggi's concept just might work.
Like at Nothing But Noodles, you order at the counter, pay and find a seat. The staff will bring the food out to your table.
We started with a very generous cup of Potsticker Soup ($3.69), where two large potstickers floated in a delightful chicken-based broth with spinach and mushrooms. All of Ziggi's soups and its chili ($4.95) are created from scratch.
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We next dove into a Basil Mozzarella Salad; it's $3.69, while comparable salads around town cost $8 or $9. The three pieces of firm mozzarella and small tomatoes were drizzled with balsamic vinegar and complemented with basil and chunks of bread.
Then it was entree time. The Spicy Rosa Pasta, normally $6.59, was on special for $5.50. The portion was enough for two — in fact, we took home enough for another meal — and the al dente noodles arrived sprinkled with red peppers, tomatoes, scallions and onions. And, yes, believe the wording — it was spicy, with just the right amount of kick in the creamy red sauce.
The Thai Peanut Ginger ($6.39) was tossed in a spicy ginger peanut sauce, but the "spicy" was difficult to find. The tad-overdone rice noodles were tossed with crunchy scallions, carrots, red peppers and bean sprouts. All in all, it's a dish with promise, but you might want to ask the kitchen to add some kick.
A six-option kids-friendly menu ($3.69-$4.99, including drink) makes Ziggi's a family destination.
We were too full for dessert, but the Cotton Candy Ice Cream Cup ($1) looked intriguing. Chocolate Lovers Cake, New York Cheesecake and Key Lime Pie (each $3.79) round out the dessert list.
All wine costs $4.25, and each of Ziggi's six beers — from Sapporo to Bud Light — costs $2.95.
Delivery is not available, but co-owner Lorrie Klump said that about 30 percent of Ziggi's business is takeout, and Ziggi's food can be ordered online through DeliciousDeliveries.com.
• Where: 3225 N. Swan Road; 2500 N. Silverbell Road.
• Hours: 10:30 a.m.-9 p.m. daily.
• What: A fast casual restaurant with homemade food and daily specials.
• Parking: Plenty.
• Phone: (Swan) 322-7042; (Silverbell) 624-0020.
THE BILL
Cup of Potsticker Soup: $3.69.
Basil Mozzarella Salad: $3.69.
Spicy Rosa Pasta (on special): $5.50.
Thai Peanut Ginger: $6.39.
Two fountain drinks: $3.18.
Total, before tax and tip: $22.45.
