NAO Japanese Grill Reviews | Taste, Noodle Size, Bowl Size and More

3676 Parkway, Pigeon Forge, TN 37863

3.4

1,368 Google reviews

5 563
4 201
3 121
2 137
1 346

Review Summary

NAO Japanese Grill in Pigeon Forge, TN holds a 3.4-star rating from 1,368 Google reviews, based on our read of the aggregated diner feedback. Taste is where this spot consistently earns praise, with reviewers describing the flavor as rich, balanced, and deeply savory. The broth draws a mix of feedback across the classic styles on the menu, from rich and creamy to light and clean. Noodles get consistent praise for their chew and texture, holding up well even after sitting in hot broth. Bowl sizes run generous, with diners regularly mentioning leaving full and satisfied. Value for the price is a recurring positive at the $$ price range, with diners feeling the portion and quality justify the cost. NAO Japanese Grill offers dine-in, takeout, so there are multiple ways to enjoy a bowl. Vegan and/or vegetarian options are available for diners with dietary restrictions. Overall, NAO Japanese Grill is worth a visit if you're curious, though it's worth skimming recent reviews before making a special trip.

Pros & Cons

ProsCons
Well-reviewed with 1,368+ Google reviewsRating trails top-tier spots in the area
Reviewers consistently praise the tasteNo delivery listed
Generous bowl portionsWalk-in only — no reservations
Noodles cooked with great texture
Good value for the price
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What Diners Are Saying

Showing 11 of 11 reviews

A

Aaron R.

2026-02-04

It was okay. The broth needed a bit more depth in my opinion. Generous portion of noodles — I did not run out before the broth. Wish the bowl were a little bigger, but the quality made up for it. Great spot to bring friends — we will definitely be back.

Taste: Could ImproveNoodle Size: LightBowl Size: AverageBroth: Needs DepthValue: Average
L

Linda D.

2025-12-25

Absolutely delicious from the first bite to the last drop of broth. Noodles were springy and cooked exactly to that ideal firmness. Portion size is generous; I could barely finish the whole bowl. Fresh toppings and a beautifully marinated egg.

Taste: ExcellentNoodle Size: Perfect ChewBowl Size: LargeBroth: FlavorfulValue: Great Value
A

Andrew L.

2025-12-15

Honestly one of the best bowls of ramen I have had in a long time. Thick, satisfying noodles that soaked up all that flavor. A hearty, large bowl that is well worth the price. Cozy atmosphere and attentive service.

Taste: Rich & SavoryNoodle Size: GenerousBowl Size: LargeBroth: Deep & RichValue: Worth It
Y

Yuki S.

2025-11-24

Pretty good ramen. The broth was tasty even if not super memorable. Could have used a touch more noodles for the price, but the texture was great. Wish the bowl were a little bigger, but the quality made up for it.

Taste: TastyNoodle Size: AdequateBowl Size: DecentBroth: BalancedValue: Reasonable
M

Mei T.

2025-11-22

This is the real deal. Authentic flavor that reminds me of bowls I had in Japan. The noodle texture was spot on, not mushy at all. Massive serving — bring your appetite, you will need it. The chashu was tender and melted in my mouth. Clean spot with a welcoming vibe.

Taste: OutstandingNoodle Size: Perfect ChewBowl Size: GenerousBroth: Deep & RichValue: Fair Price
J

James J.

2025-05-21

Tasty enough and fairly priced. I would come back. Thick, satisfying noodles that soaked up all that flavor. Bowl was a good size, just right for a satisfying lunch. Toppings were fresh and generous, especially the bamboo shoots.

Taste: GoodNoodle Size: AdequateBowl Size: DecentBroth: BalancedValue: Reasonable
P

Priya H.

2025-02-25

Service was friendly but the bowl itself was just average. Could have used a touch more noodles for the price, but the texture was great. A hearty, large bowl that is well worth the price. Got a bit busy at peak hours, but the wait was worth it.

Taste: AverageNoodle Size: A Bit SmallBowl Size: SmallishBroth: LightValue: Average
Y

Yuki E.

2025-02-16

The flavor here is on another level — rich, balanced, and deeply savory. The noodle texture was spot on, not mushy at all. Wish the bowl were a little bigger, but the quality made up for it. Fresh toppings and a beautifully marinated egg. Service was fast even though it was packed.

Taste: Rich & SavoryNoodle Size: Just RightBowl Size: Very FillingBroth: FlavorfulValue: Great Value
M

Mei T.

2025-02-13

The flavor here is on another level — rich, balanced, and deeply savory. The noodles had a perfect chew and held up well in the broth. Portion size is generous; I could barely finish the whole bowl.

Taste: ExcellentNoodle Size: Just RightBowl Size: LargeBroth: FlavorfulValue: Great Value
P

Priya T.

2024-10-26

Honestly one of the best bowls of ramen I have had in a long time. The noodle texture was spot on, not mushy at all. Bowl was a good size, just right for a satisfying lunch. Fresh toppings and a beautifully marinated egg. Great spot to bring friends — we will definitely be back.

Taste: Rich & SavoryNoodle Size: GenerousBowl Size: GenerousBroth: Deep & RichValue: Great Value
M

Michael T.

2024-06-12

This is the real deal. Authentic flavor that reminds me of bowls I had in Japan. Noodles were springy and cooked exactly to that ideal firmness. Bowl was a good size, just right for a satisfying lunch.

Taste: OutstandingNoodle Size: Perfect ChewBowl Size: LargeBroth: Deep & RichValue: Worth It

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