Peace, Quiet, and Noodles at the Library-Style Hefu Noodle in Ginza Mall
Having been to school for greens at Salad University, we're now heading to the library for noodles. Thus it seems like Beijing's culinary reinvention is taking a pedagogic bent with Hefu Noodle the latest restaurant to incorporate learning materials into their eating experience. The Ginza Mall establishment is designed similarly to a traditional but spacious Chinese scholar’s study – red sandalwood furniture sits among vases, red lanterns, large calligraphy, lotus-shaped lamps, and folding screens.
Originally founded in Jiangsu, Hefu Noodle has since flourished, expanding to over 88 branches around China in just four years.
Of the cold dishes, the mu’er plate (RMB 6) was as to be expected and came seasoned with vinegar, soy sauce, and chili, while the marinated tofu (RMB 6) was flavorless and dry. The croquette (RMB 6) came lukewarm but wasn't half bad on account of it being deep-fried mashed potato.
Though the starters were nothing special, the mains didn't dissapoint. The signature noodles with crab row and bamboo shoots (RMB 39) looked inviting unto itself thanks to a splash of color from cilantro, mushrooms, mu’er, and other vegetables. The soup was amazingly moreish with bursting umami and white peppery flavor. The secret? As their staff proudly explained, the broth is cooked for eight hours with pork bones and various herbs. You can add a healthy drink such as soybean milk or black sesame milk for RMB 18 each.
Most notably, Hefu Noodle's service was impeccable for a fast food chain, delivering complimentary lemon water once you sit down and offering additional broth and noodles for free. Also, we're not sure if it was because there were over 5,000 books surrounding us for people to pick up and peruse during their meal but it seemed like customers even consciously (or subconsciously) lowered their voices to match the atmosphere, making for a peaceful escape compared to the usual bustle of a noodle joint.
Hefu Noodle
Daily 10am-9.30pm. 10F-G, B1, Ginza Mall, 48 Dongzhimenwai Dajie, Dongcheng District (185 1664 7659)
和府捞面：东城区东直门外大街48号东方银座商场B1楼10F-G商铺
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Photos: Tracy Wang
