Mike C.
Yelp
Expectations can be fleeting.
I should have fled after reading the menu, a two-sided one page sheet (https://www.yelp.com/user_local_photos?userid=saJuyv784apZzH--psHZ3Q&select=rT410_I5kwE522HvthzUVQ), (https://www.yelp.com/user_local_photos?userid=saJuyv784apZzH--psHZ3Q&select=DIKoseAsc3266nJuOoGJUw). This business came up out of curiosity as I was a frequent diner at the previous business known for their hot pot. In seeing the reviews especially from one of my favorite reads Cherylynn N. (https://www.yelp.com/user_details?userid=eKUGKQRE-Ywi5dY55_zChg), it was a priority to try given her opinion.
After a busy day of errands, office work, and home tasks, I made a point to come here just after they opened on a cool December Thursday evening. I was a bit surprised that it was totally empty and was given my choice of tables. I picked one near the expediting station since that was the nearest two-seat table. After studying the menu and NOT seeing the popular dishes that caught my eyes, I pivoted. I started with the braised beef broth with noodles (https://www.yelp.com/user_local_photos?userid=saJuyv784apZzH--psHZ3Q&select=TUZ2hOX_WHgaLmbKK05FaA) after being offered a choice of flat rice noodle also; there were small tender pieces of stew like beef pieces, mostly lean. The noodles were on the thin side and soft in texture, not the HK thin chewy noodles. The broth was clear and clean tasting with small pieces of ginger as a garnish as well as two large slices of white oyster mushrooms. It was okay but didn't stand out. I would probably enjoy the spicy braised beef noodle soup more as it was pretty much a one note dish. I also tried the Bang Bang chicken wings (https://www.yelp.com/user_local_photos?userid=saJuyv784apZzH--psHZ3Q&select=6O2PlUPJB7hCShq_r2vXEg). The Chinese description matches that of the famed spicy wings on Irving Street. It was served temperature, smoking hot while being mildly spicy with a light and sticky sauce. The mix of both wing type pieces were crunchy and nicely flavored. I finished about half as the soup noodles were filling.
In walking in, I noticed an order station just before the kitchen and was confused whether there was wait service or an order and be seated eatery. A young gal greeted me and gave me my choice of tables. A gentleman asked me what I wanted to drink and I opted for cold water. The wait staff were present but mostly mulling by the cashier and expediting area. Part way into my meal, I asked the man when did the menu change and why. Apparently, the chef left and the new menu started about two weeks ago (early December). The room is clean and updated from the previous shabu please and much brighter. However, coming in wanting to try the baked pork chop rice, JK milk tea, and other items from the old menu that people complimented. The young lady said they have the old recipes and the ownership is the same but I likely won't return unless those menu options return.