A thumb-stopping snap on @eater_la’s Instagram feed inspired a noodle run to Rosemead with Louise. I’m a sucker for carbs of all stripes, and she’s always down to test-drive a new spot; we were both hoping Best Noodle House would live up to its name.
The dining room at this simply appointed Sichuan noodle shop was mostly empty when we arrived, but filled up a bit soon after.
To start, a trio of cold apps. From left to right: “Spicy Combination Platter” with beef, pork tripe, and bean curd ($7.95), Tiger Skin Peppers, and “Black Fungus with Chili” ($2.95).
The combo platter and wood ear mushrooms were perfectly fine, but it was the marinated peppers that stood out. Removing each one’s seeds and membranes was a must before popping these peppers.
The “Szechuan Style Dumpling” ($7.95) were flattish parcels filled with pork and dressed in a chili oil that was more spicy than numbing.
The “Chungking Dan Dan Noodle” ($7.95), slicked in chili oil and topped with scallions, ground pork, and peanuts, was good but not particularly memorable. The San Gabriel Valley has become a hotbed for Sichuan cooking in recent years (See: Chengdu Taste, Mian, Szechuan Impression), so it takes a stellar bowl of dan dan mian to stand out in the crowd.
Even though the waiter told us otherwise, the “Chung King Noodle” ($7.95) was in fact identical to the dan dan mian, minus the peanuts and with the addition of a boiled egg.
The most excellent dish of the day was the “Youpo Noodle” ($7.95), wonderfully toothsome noodles adorned with scallions, garlic, and chilies. I wouldn’t hesitate to return to Best Noodle House for another bowl of these wide, handmade strands.
Best Noodle House fell short of living up to its name, but that’s only because the competition is so fierce these days.
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Best Noodle House
9329 Valley Boulevard
Rosemead, CA 91770
Phone: 626-782-7432
One year ago: Carbone – Las Vegas (Aria Resort and Casino)
Two years ago: China Tasty – Alhambra
Three years ago: L’Atelier de Joël Robuchon – Las Vegas (MGM Grand)
Four years ago: Chengdu Taste – Alhambra
Five year ago: Le Beurre Noisette – Paris
Six years ago: Wafels & Dinges – New York City
Seven years ago: Fortune Cookies – Los Angeles (Hollywood)
Eight years ago: Mr. Baguette – Rosemead
Nine years ago: A Day in Tagaytay, Philippines
Ten years ago: Đậu Hủ Xả Ớt – Fried Tofu with Chilies and Lemongrass
So this begs the obvious question. Who does have the best dan dan mian? I’ve had many that are bad and mediocre. Still looking for a great one. Thanks for the many fine reviews!
Paul – I am partial to the dan dan mian at Lucky Noodle King even though the business keeps changing hands. The bowl at Chengdu Taste is also good.
Thanks for reading!