After six years of serving some of San Antonio’s most talked-about ramen, Noodle Tree is closing its doors so its owner can focus on battling blood cancer. The popular shop at 114 UTSA Boulevard #101 will close on January 11, its sixth anniversary.

Chef Mike Nguyen made the announcement in a frank Instagram video.

“ I've kept my health private because I've always believed this restaurant should be defined by being the best ramen spot in San Antonio and not by my illness,” he said. “Unfortunately, my health hasn't improved. I told myself as long as I can continue physically doing this job. I'll keep going. But my body's breaking down faster than I anticipated.”

Nguyen, who trained under famed chef Wolfgang Puck, first opened Noodle Tree on January 11, 2019. The restaurant drew immediate buzz for traditional styles like tonkotsu and creative specials like menudo ramen.

Over the years, his culinary muse led him to open new concepts like Breeky, a casual spot specializing in Korean-style breakfast sandwiches, and Momo Yakitori, focused on skewered Japanese grilled meats. But Noodle Tree was always his passion project.

“For most of Noodle Tree's life, I was the one cooking your food, washing your dishes, and closing the doors at night,” he said in the video. “Every bowl mattered to me. I wanted you to feel the love, the struggle, and the heart that poured into every bite.”

Despite the loyal fanbase, Noodle Tree also became a lightning rod after Nguyen appeared on CNN to criticize Governor Greg Abbot's handling of the COVID-19 pandemic. After his interview, the restaurant was vandalized with racist messages, an incident that helped spark the Stop Asian Hate discussion in Texas.

Persevering through the setbacks, Nguyen remains one of the most respected chefs in San Antonio’s restaurant community. Former Sangria on the Burg chef Ceasar Zepeda and Folklores Coffee House co-owner Tatu Herrera, were among the notable culinary world figures who took to the comments section to express support.

“I hope you know that your hard work, determination, and impact will never disappear. You’re a legend, ” wrote Stefan Bowers on the Pumpers account.