101 Noodle Express1408 E Valley Blvd
Alhambra
626-300-8654
As readers of The New Diner know, when it comes to dumplings, I love Dumpling House in Arcadia, and in my quest for dumplings in the San Gabriel Valley, I have also think highly of Dumpling House in Temple City.
So when I read about 101 Noodle Express, being among the best dumpling places in the San Gabriel Valley, I had to give it a try. 101 Noodle Express is, just west of Mei Long Village and Jin Jian, on Valley Blvd. but a bit tough to find because the sign is pretty small.
Pork roll;$6.75. I would normally get the beef roll but today I got the pork roll and what a treat. Served warm, this roll was great!! The pancake was slightly toasted, flakey, and a bit chewy. The pork was tender and flavorful, with lots of green onions but not overwhelming. Two huge pieces came with the order. I would get this again, any time.
Pan fried, pork dumpling (10 pieces); $6.49. I wasn't expecting xio long boa, but these dumplings had the juices inside. I was a bit surprised, but I did like this. The skin is thicker than normal; about the thickness of three wonton wrappers. But the pork was well seasoned and tender. I liked the juice, very good flavor, and seasoning.
Steamed shrimp and pork dumpling (10 pieces); $5.99. I normally don't like shrimp and pork dumpling together. But the shrimp and pork dumpling here was great. An entire medium sized shrimp was mixed with the pork. Good seasoning, good flavor. I would order this again.
Service was OK. Part of the problem was English isn't spoken, so it is hard to communicate. I thought the food took a bit longer than normal. But, overall nothing too bad.
I do like 101 Noodle Express but I don't think it's anywhere close to Dumpling House. I do think the pork roll was awesome, and while the dumplings were good, they didn't blow me away. 101 Noodle Express is cash only, no credit cards are accepted.
