Boru Noodle Bar to Expand into Adjacent Space

Boru Noodle Bar has quickly become a must-visit Newport eatery thanks to their quick-and tasty dishes inspired by ramen noodles.

The noodle bar has developed a loyal following and is one of the busier places to grab a hot and spicy lunch or dinner. But with growth comes growing pains — owner Casey Shea said the dining room is a bit cramped and the bathroom, while usable, is too-tight-a-fit for many customers.

Things will get a little roomer — and even busier — at Boru Noodle Bar after the City Council last night approved a request for the business to expand and add 20 seats in a new dining room that will be constructed in an adjacent space behind the restaurant.

The new space is the former home to a pet groomer, Shea said, and construction will be completed sometime this summer. Both units will be combined, a door will be added to connect the units and the restaurant will gain some added storage space, to boot.

“It’s essentially for overflow and some customers want a more leisurely dining experience,” Shea said in an interview.

The new space will accommodate larger parties who want to stretch out a little and might not feel at ease in the smaller front area that today can be described as cozy.

The space is perfect for families or groups that want to bring a bottle of wine and have enjoy themselves with a more traditional restaurant experience. It will also be available for rentals and summer parties, Shea said.

At the same time, Shea said the bathroom will be redone. Right now “the situation is pretty sad,” he said. “We plan to have a proper bathroom in which an average person can actually fit.”

The restaurant is also planning on offering sidewalk seating for people to enjoy the summer air, though Shea said those plans are contingent upon the completion of the planned Broadway Streetscape project, which includes substantial road and sidewalk repairs.

The expansion is a sign that business is strong for Boru Noodle Bar.

“Business has been good,” Shea said. ”And we’re hoping it gets better.”

Photos: Boru Noodle Bar via Facebook.