“非诚勿扰” – 孟非的小面 Mr Meng’s Noodle @ Sydney Haymarket, Australia

“You are the One” or in Chinese “Fei Cheng Wu Rao” is a hit dating show in China started from 2010 until 2014. The host is called Meng Fei, the bold head guy who is super-intelligent & witty.  His eloquence is just amazing and it is enjoyable to listen to the way he speaks. Now, you know who I am talking about? Yes, Meng Fei or Mr Meng (孟爷爷). “You are the One” (非诚勿扰) is a very entertaining show which shows the culture and difference in the mainland of China.

Base on Luyu interview show (A Date with Luyu 魯豫有約) on Meng Fei, Meng Fei started the noodles shops simply because of his love for noodles. He first opened several restaurants in China and now spreading his franchise overseas, both in Sydney and Melbourne.

Where is it?

Mr Meng’s noodle restaurant is located on top of Market City, 3 level at 1909 Dining Precinct in Sydney Chinatown. It is actually located at the top floor of Paddy’s market Sydney.

Chongqing style noodles

Mr Meng birthplace is in Chongqing and his restaurant is also adopted the Chongqing style which means lots of chilies, expect a variety of spicy ingredients in the noodles or dishes.

Chongqing Little Noodles or Xiao Mian

One of the signatures of Chongqing noodle is “Little noodles” or Xian Mian.  It has some pickles and peanuts.

Specialty dish will be highlighted on the menu and some with pictures. The staff will ask you what level of spicy you want when you place the order? I choose the least hot version and turn out to be quite hot for me too but bearable. I love it.

You need to place your order at the cashier first and pay, then the staff will bring your meals to your table.

Noodle with stew beef

The noodle was cooked perfectly al dente. Mixed through with the beef and peas it was an unforgettable experience to the palate.  Huge chunks of meat covers with chili oil.

Sliced Pork Belly with Spicy Garlic Sauce (Suan Ni Bai Rou 蒜泥白肉)

The pork belly was first boiled and then add up with garlic and chili, this is one of my favorite dishes. The sesame on top adds up the extra flavor and texture to the dish.

Iced Jelly with Brown Syrup

I am quite surprised to see hawthorn 山楂 is added on top of the grass jelly dessert. Hawthorn (Shan Zha) is very popular in China as it acts as a herb and good remedy for health. The taste of hawthorn is sweet and sour but still goes very well with the ice jelly & brown syrup.  In Singapore, we don’t usually use hawthorn (Shan Zha) in our desserts.

Check out the Logo

The decoration design of Mengfei noodle restaurant is full of cultural atmosphere. One thing draws my attention is the handwriting logo.

Final thoughts:

If you are in Sydney Chinatown, go visit Mr Meng’s noodles at Level 3 Market City, on top of Paddy’s Market. I have no regret in trying out the spicy noodles and other spicy dishes with authentic Chinese Chongqing taste. Most importantly, I am a fan of Mr Meng!