Absolutely worth a try if you're looking for a decent meal near Public Square. As a downtowner I've eaten here four or five times and have never left disappointed. I dunno if it's really worth 5 stars over 4, but I feel so bad about all this negativity so I figured I'd bump it up a notch.
Firstly, I can't believe that people call the portions small. I'm a decent eater and I generally can barely finish a steam bun and a bowl.
Secondly, I've had (or at least tried with a friend) most of the stuff on the menu at Noodlecat. Don't walk in expecting true authenticity from a place that serves a dish called "Roscoe's Fried Chicken and Ramen." It's just not gonna happen. What you should expect is awesome service and good "fusion" dishes that are maybe a little expensive for a lunch but not overpriced on the whole. The flavors are strong, but the noodles are mild and almost all the bowls come with some sort of veggies in them to help offset the saltiness of the rest of the dish. You can also have them crack an egg in it or get some avocado to even it out if you're so inclined.
Thirdly, if you're gonna make a fuss about the chef (who has taken the time to come to your table and talk to you) being in jeans and a bandanna, you may as well cross off two thirds of the decent restaurants in the city.
Fourthly, Fever tree Ginger beer might be the greatest beverage in the western hemisphere.
Anyway, Noodlecat is an awesome restaurant. Order the specials, they're always amazing.