Dainty Sichaun – Noodle Villa
281 Elizabeth Street, Melbourne
03 9602 3888
Chinese
$
Food
- Lamb Rice Noodles
- Braised Beef Rice Noodles
- Noodle Villa’s Signature Firewood Chilli Powder
The Good
The Lamb Rice Noodles were simply a delight. The thinly sliced, incredibly aromatic piece of lamb fans out on top of the fragrant and rich broth. Slow cooked for more than 10 hours, the broth itself was rich in flavour and had a beautiful lamb aroma that lingered long after. This was served alongside some silky smooth, round rice noodles that were cooked just so, soft and textured without being mushy or glucky.
Sitting on our table was a jug topped with Noodle Villa’s Signature Firewood Chilli Powder. We added this into our noodle soup generously, and it instantly transformed our broth into a very well spiced, slightly smokey and incredibly fragrant experience that offered up a satisfying kick in heat and spice.
The Braised Beef Rice Noodles was arguably even tastier. Opting for a “mild” spice, we found the flavours well balanced and the heat of the chilli didn’t overwhelm the beautiful beef flavour within the broth. The braised beef was simply flawless, rich in flavour, well marinated and heavenly tender and succulent. The soft beef slices certainly didn’t disappoint either and offered up a lovely beefy sensation. Topping it all off was the divine beef tendon, which had a delightfully creamy texture and a slight springy feedback. All combined with silky smooth, perfectly cooked rice noodles and accompanied by garnishes like spring onions and coriander, this was one tasty bowl of noodles that’s bound to whet your appetite!
The Mediocre
Nothing.
The Bad
Nothing.
The Verdict
The group behind the newly opened Noodle Villa is of course Dainty Sichuan, and to date, none of their ventures have let us down. Their small menu is simple though exceptionally well executed, allowing for a quick, efficient yet tasty ‘fast’ food that’s made with time-tested, slow-braised recipes.
Clear emphasis on consistency and quality is evident in each bowl, and with such an affordable price tag and quick service, you’d be hard pressed to find a more impressive bowl of warm and hearty noodles in the city.
Would Penguin Eat Again?
Definitely. A perfect warming meal that’s quick and affordable. Count us in!
Penguineats would like to thank Noodle Villa for inviting us.