If you live on the East side aka East L.A., but more specifically Alhambra, you have probably passed by 101 Noodle Express thousands of times as you cruised down Valley Boulevard right before you hit New Avenue as you head east. It’s located in a seafoam green strip mall where the marquee has bowling pins on it. Look for it because you want to eat here. Now for those of you who’ve already eaten here, congratulations! But for those of you who haven’t, it’s time.
What’s the draw of this one Chinese restaurant out of millions available to you in East L.A.? It’s the Shandong beef roll. Sure, plenty of restaurants have beef rolls nowadays, but not like 101 Noodle Express. You may be thinking, what makes their beef roll more superior over others?
First of all, the size of the pancake does matter. The pancake they make is perfect, not too thick and not too thin, so there is a nice balance between the pancake, meat and herbs. It’s like the importance of great bread for the ultimate sandwich right? You know awesome bread makes or breaks your sandwich. Next, the braised meat is thinly sliced and there is an abundance of fresh diced green onions and cilantro. For those of you who hate cilantro, it is in no way overpowering. And the perfect amount of a hoisin type sauce. So the overall taste is just a mouthful of tender, flavorful meat with a hint of fresh herbs wrapped up in a delicious pancake wrap.
For you spice lovers, give it an extra punch of flavor, by topping it off with some of 101 Noodle Express’s house made “salty vegetables”, which is a blend of finely chopped salted veggies, chilies and herbs. It’s sitting in a glass condiment jar on your table, you can’t miss it. Take that cover off and just put it on top of your beef roll before each bite. You’re going to love that spicy, salty burst of flavor in your mouth. The beef roll is a great deal! For $6.75 you get two huge rolls per order! This is WAY better than any $5.00 sub sandwich.
Besides the super popular beef roll, they have a great selection of dumplings, soup noodles and various dishes for you to choose from. Don’t forget to walk up to the front where the cold case houses cold appetizers like spicy cucumbers or tofu noodles. If you aren’t sure what the cold appetizers are, just ask the waitress.
The restaurant is conveniently located off the New Avenue exit off the 10 freeway. Make a left at Valley Boulevard (you’ll see a big sign for the Tomato Bank on your left) and boom, you’ll see the seafoam green building on your left. Make sure you pick up an extra beef roll to take home. It’s the perfect late night snack and don’t forget to ask for a side of the “salty vegetables.”
101 Noodle Express
1408 E Valley Blvd
Alhambra CA 91801
626-300-8654
Hours: Mon-Sun – 11:00 a.m. – 1:00 a.m.
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