v3.6.0.2
Document and Entity Information - USD ($)
$ in Millions
12 Months Ended
Jan. 03, 2017
Feb. 24, 2017
Jun. 28, 2016
Document Information [Line Items]      
Entity Registrant Name NOODLES & Co    
Entity Central Index Key 0001275158    
Current Fiscal Year End Date --01-03    
Entity Filer Category Accelerated Filer    
Document Type 10-K    
Document Period End Date Jan. 03, 2017    
Document Fiscal Year Focus 2016    
Document Fiscal Period Focus FY    
Amendment Flag false    
Entity Well-known Seasoned Issuer No    
Entity Voluntary Filers No    
Entity Current Reporting Status Yes    
Entity Public Float     $ 113.7
Class A Common Stock [Member]      
Document Information [Line Items]      
Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding   26,350,827  
Class B Common Stock [Member]      
Document Information [Line Items]      
Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding   1,522,098