Soupa Saiyan, Universal Area

Yesterday I tried this noodle bar in that aged strip mall on Vineland (just a block off Kirkman) that has that little popular Mexican restaurant (Border something). Edible says they have had 90 minute lines. There were only three other people there while I was there, so, that was a relief. It would not have been worth that kind of wait. Perhaps because I wasn't feeling soup or because it was my third option (one and two were frustrated), I wasn't floored by what they offer. I had a "create your own" bowl with shrimp, brisket, udon and chicken broth. Mostly because the "uncustom" choices cost $3 or $4 dollars more than the already steep $10. All the elements were fine. Big bowl. The shrimp (7) were a little gamey/frozen/old tasting. It was basically just pho without the veg. The way it works here is that you choose a veg, chicken or beef broth and then a choice of noodle (3) and then two (out of a dozen) "fillings". They also have some fried apps from around $4. Nothing fancy. And that's it. The place seats about twenty. The decor (what there is of of it) is trashy. The Dragonball Z (the saiyan part) connection is silly. They blast the insipid cartoon on the lone television. They have some Z memorabilia in the prep area. Most neighborhoods have a Vietnamese or hot pot place that serves equal if not better soup. No need to trek here. They take Amex, but, don't print out receipts. The have been open for six months.