AsiaLIFE

The handmade noodles at Noodle Shop will tempt even the most loyal of rice eaters. Words by Kate Liana.

Silky, toothsome, fresh and delicious, patrons will fall head over heels in love with the Noodle Shop’s noodles. Dolled up and tricked out in a variety of flavours and styles, their inner beauty shines through and leaves diners longing for more. In Jar Jan (US$2.50) they were joined by minced pork and scallions, in a tasty, thick gravy. Fried La Mien Panaeng noodles (US$3) had a lovely, rich spiciness, packed with basil and tender beef, a bit on the oily side but a favourite of the table. The delicious Kari (US$2.50) was a strong green curry with peanut, fresh vegetables, Mekong fish and rice noodles. Cold salads (US$3) offered a choice of vermicelli, glass noodles or the handmade ones. They come with roast pork, roast duck, seafood or "stomach". Soups also came with the same varieties (US$3.50). Glass noodle soup with lemongrass was fragrant and light, though the broth was still rich. All of the food was fresh and tasty, though – with the exception of the Panaeng – lacking a good dose of spice. Staff were quick to supply fresh chilli and explain the various sauces on the table.

The only thing that was incongruous was the drink menu. Soft drinks were US$2, Beer Lao and Chang US$1.70, and a single glass of wine came to US$4, which was more than any dish on the menu. Not outrageous prices, but strange for a place with such cheap fare. Housed in the former site of the infamous Broken Bricks at the intersection of Street 130 and 5, the colonial-style building has had a complete makeover. The outside is painted a light, buttercup yellow with white trim. The marble tables and wicker chairs give a mellow, classy vibe, along with dark wood accents at the bar and along the walls. Inside and out are sparkling clean. If you're out for entertainment, it's fun to watch the chefs stretch and slap batches of noodles on the counter at their stall outside. Otherwise enjoy your company and savour every mouthful.

Noodle Shop, Cnr. Streets 130 & 5.