Noodle Loft

Beijing, China

Noodle Loft is exactly the type of place where you see on television and believe the hype. It's the type of place were you think Anthony Bourdain has no say over his producer and actually promotes a place like this. Basically, it's crap for tourists. Do they put on a show? Sure, it entertained me for a bit, but being in the middle of no-where, having my cab driver get lost and yell at me in Chinese and then not get awesome noodles, that really leaves me peeved. Without further ado....

When you drive up to noodle loft, it looks super trendy and hip like it belongs in Las Vegas with flashing lights and fancy up-lighting.

Trendy entrance

Graffiti artwork

We had the option to sit upstairs in the large dining area or downstairs where the noodles were being rolled, cut and cooked. We opted to watch the show. 

Noodle bar

The noodle steam baths

I must admit, i was pretty excited after I got inside and saw everyone making fresh noodles of all sorts and took a video of the action.

Cat ear shaped noodles

We opted for three noodle types, cat ear shaped noodle in meat sauce, beef noodle soup with rice noodles and basic stir fried noodles with pork and veggies.

Beef Noodle soup

The problem with the noodles were they were thick, tough and bland. No flavor, poor texture and I could go into any other noodle house and get a better product for half the price. The only real reason to come here is for the experience. 

Sadly, the worst meal of our trip and a sore disappointment after so many great meals in Beijing. 

Rating 3/10

July 9, 2010