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OB Noodle House

  • Writer: James
    James
  • Oct 14
  • 4 min read

Updated: Oct 14


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Few restaurants embody the laid-back yet passionate spirit of Ocean Beach quite like OB Noodle House. What started as a family dream has grown into one of San Diego’s most iconic dining destinations — a place where locals and visitors gather to enjoy unforgettable food, share laughter over drinks, and experience the warm, communal energy that defines OB itself.

A Family Legacy Rooted in Flavor and Community

OB Noodle House is more than a restaurant — it’s the story of Steven Yeng and his Cambodian immigrant family, who came to the U.S. with a love for traditional flavors and a vision for blending them with the relaxed surf-town culture of Ocean Beach.

When Steven opened OB Noodle House, his goal was simple: serve fresh, flavorful dishes that brought people together while honoring his heritage. The menu quickly became a reflection of OB’s personality — fun, diverse, and impossible to resist.

From sizzling garlic wings to rich pho bowls and crispy fried rice, every dish at OB Noodle House captures a piece of both tradition and innovation. It’s not uncommon to see surfboards parked outside, laughter filling the air, and the scent of lemongrass and grilled meat drifting down Cable Street.

The Birth of an OB Legend — Peanut Butter Whiskey

If you’ve spent any time at OB Noodle House, you’ve probably heard about (or tried) their famous peanut butter shots. What began as a fun house shot for friends turned into a cultural phenomenon — and eventually gave rise to Screwball Peanut Butter Whiskey, a now-famous brand born right here in Ocean Beach.

The idea began with Steven noticing how much customers loved his quirky peanut butter whiskey shots — a sweet, nutty, slightly boozy treat that became a signature of OB nightlife. Patrons would line up for “just one more round.” The drink’s popularity sparked the idea: what if this could be bottled and shared with the world?

In 2018, Screwball Whiskey launched — inspired directly by those OB Noodle House shots. Today, it’s a nationwide sensation, but its heart and origin remain proudly OB.

The Food That Keeps People Coming Back

At the heart of OB Noodle House’s success is the food itself — fresh, fast, and bursting with character. Their famous House Special Pho is layered with beef, brisket, and noodles in a rich, flavorful broth that simmers for hours. The lemongrass chicken and grilled pork are local staples, and the garlic wings are so beloved they’ve developed their own cult following.

For those who love spice, the Spicy Garlic Noodles are a must-try — a perfect balance of heat, tang, and texture that pairs beautifully with a cold beer or cocktail.

And speaking of drinks, the bar menu reflects OB’s eclectic taste — from local craft beers to signature cocktails, each one made with the same care and creativity that defines the food.

A True Ocean Beach Experience

OB Noodle House isn’t just about what’s on the plate. It’s about the atmosphere — that unique Ocean Beach blend of laid-back energy and unfiltered authenticity. Whether you’re sitting at the bar chatting with regulars, grabbing takeout after a beach day, or meeting friends for dinner on a Friday night, it feels like home.

The staff’s hospitality reflects the heart of a family-run business. Servers greet customers by name, Steven often chats with guests, and everyone who walks in feels like part of the OB community.

It’s that combination of incredible food, genuine warmth, and neighborhood pride that keeps OB Noodle House packed — day after day, year after year.

Beyond the Kitchen: A Community Pillar

Over the years, OB Noodle House has also become a key player in local events, fundraisers, and causes. Steven and his team’s dedication to Ocean Beach goes far beyond the restaurant’s walls — supporting community programs, sponsoring local events, and giving back in ways that strengthen OB’s close-knit identity.

In a neighborhood known for its independent spirit and small-town soul, OB Noodle House stands as a reminder that success doesn’t have to mean losing your roots. It’s proof that family, food, and community can thrive together — and that authenticity will always have a place at the table.

Why It Deserves the Spotlight

Every great food town has a few standout restaurants that define its flavor, and for Ocean Beach, OB Noodle House is one of them. It’s the kind of place that brings people back again and again — for the pho, for the peanut butter whiskey, and for the feeling of belonging that hits the moment you sit down.

If you’re exploring Ocean Beach or planning your next meal out, don’t miss this local treasure. Grab a bowl, take a shot, and experience the legacy that started with one family’s dream and grew into a community landmark.



If You Go:📍 Location: 2218 Cable Street, Ocean Beach, CA

🍜 Signature Dish: House Special Pho or Garlic Wings

🥃 Drink to Try: Screwball Peanut Butter Whiskey Shot

🌐 Website: obnoodlehouse.com

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