Zha Jiang Noodles at Xi’an Famous Foods – NYC
What to do when a jajangmyun craving hits you in the East Village, and you’re too lazy to go to K-Town? One option is Lam Zhou, for the Chinese hand-pulled noodle version, but when even Chinatown seems too far, there’s Zha Jiang Hand-Ripped Noodles at Xi’an Famous Foods ($6.50).
The sauce is runnier, saltier, and less sweet than the Korean-Chinese version, and while there are no diced potatoes (my fav), it’s made with Xi’an’s thick, chewy hand-ripped noodles which I adore. (It reminds me of sujebi!) Plus, if you want to spice it up Xi’an style, order it spicy, and your noodles will appear properly doused in fiery red chili oil with lots of cooling Sichuan peppercorns. Although, even without, it’s still mighty tasty.
Laziness has its rewards.
Xi’an Famous Foods
81 St. Mark’s Place (near 1st Ave; map)
New York, NY 10003
There used to be a place called Marco Polo – I think on Baxter – which had an awesome Chinese version. Alas, that restaurant closed down a few years back. Haven’t found an equal since.
@bear mid – Yes, I know, we went together! I’ll take you to another place next time you’re in town.