| Cover Page | Feb. 25, 2021 |
| Cover [Abstract] | |
| Document Type | 8-K |
| Document Period End Date | Feb. 25, 2021 |
| Entity Registrant Name | NOODLES & COMPANY |
| Entity Central Index Key | 0001275158 |
| Amendment Flag | false |
| Entity Incorporation, State or Country Code | DE |
| Entity File Number | 001-35987 |
| Entity Tax Identification Number | 84-1303469 |
| Entity Address, Address Line One | 520 Zang Street, Suite D |
| Entity Address, City or Town | Broomfield, |
| Entity Address, State or Province | CO |
| Entity Address, Postal Zip Code | 80021 |
| City Area Code | 720 |
| Local Phone Number | 214-1900 |
| Written Communications | false |
| Soliciting Material | false |
| Pre-commencement Tender Offer | false |
| Pre-commencement Issuer Tender Offer | false |
| Title of 12(b) Security | Class A common stock |
| Trading Symbol | NDLS |
| Security Exchange Name | NASDAQ |
| Entity Emerging Growth Company | false |
