Thit Nuong Cuon
Noodle City (garvey Ave)

Noodle City (garvey Ave)

848 E Garvey Ave, Monterey Park, CA 91755, United States

Cafe • Pizza • Chinese • Catering


"Of course, locals from Tianjin might argue that nothing compares to the baozhi back home. In fact, they might say that boiled buns from Tianjin, a bit drier, are different from the Shanghai-style dumplings that have a chewy outer skin. Just as it’s difficult to recreate a genuine pizza crust, the essence of baozhi and dumplings is rooted in their origins. The quality of the water used in the dough is crucial to achieving the right texture and mouthfeel, making it challenging to find an authentic New York-style pizza in Hong Kong or true Tianjin baozi in Los Angeles. We also tried the wine-infused hard-boiled eggs, which are similar to tea eggs but prepared with wine. Served cold, they offered a refreshing contrast to the hot baozi. Tianjin is also famous for its water dumplings—one of my favorite dishes. While Mr. B suggested trying the fish water dumplings, I was initially reluctant but gave them a chance. They were okay, but nothing remarkable; I would have preferred a pork filling or something similar. The fish filling had a pasty texture that didn’t appeal to me. On a brighter note, we enjoyed some of the best scallion pancakes I’ve ever had. Typically, scallion pancakes are thicker and greasier, but at Noodle House, they were thinner and less oily. I would have preferred a flakier version, but I found these to be quite enjoyable. Overall, the Tianjin baozi here surpasses those I've had at Shaomai, making for a delightful dining experience."

Pho -ever

Pho -ever

120 N El Camino Real, Encinitas, United States

Soup • Asian • American • Vietnamese


"Consistent quality, an impressive menu, and a casual, laid back atmosphere. The menu features many well-known dishes from traditional Vietnamese cuisine. The food is well prepared and packed with flavor. Prices are reasonable. Serving sizes are huge. You can never go wrong with the Pho. I 've tried it several times, and each time it definitely hits the spot. The rice dishes are delicious. It is served with Steamed Rice, and BBQ Pork, Beef, Chicken, Meatloaf, Pork Chop, Shrimp, and/or Egg, or a combination thereof, and with a light, fresh salad. It 's the perfect combination of flavor and ingredients, which leaves a memorable, delightful taste on the palette. Exotic specialty dishes are also offered, like the Bún Bò Hué (Spicy Beef Noodle Soup) and the Quàng Noodle Bowl. Several sauces are available at each table and/or upon request to increase flavor or complement the taste are offered. My favorite is the fish sauce. Service has dramatically improved. In the past they made some small, innocent mistakes during their busy hours. One time the servers forgot to put in my mother 's order. Another time they spilled water on our table as they were refilling our water glasses. But the servers made up the mistakes with their kindness and generosity: on both occasions they picked up the tab! That 's what I call great service. The place itself is not a Fine Dine joint. It 's great for a quickie. Not the best to impress a date or your boss. But it 's perfect for a later date or if you want to casually hangout with friends and family. It 's a laid-back, super casual eatery, with seating inside. No outdoor seating. Waiters take your order at the table and bring you your food. Restaurant offers take-out. Food is brought out pretty quickly (within 5 min during non-busy hours and 10 minutes during busy hours). Inside is pretty loud. Catch sports games on their 2 big flat screen TVs inside. Overall, great bang for buck. Food is good. Service is good. Pho-Ever has Noelito 's seal of approval."