“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!
16 comments
The market looks amazing!!! I will definitely give it a try next time i am in the neighbourhood. Thank you so much.
Dear Chad,
The setting in Level 3 1909 Dining Precinct looks classy and posh. Most importantly is clean.
We were there just this weekend. It is really good for the foodies in Sydney, so much to choose from!
Dear Tamara,
There are so many choices of food to choose from in Sydney. Love the diversity of this city.
This looks delicious, will add to my list of must visit restaurants
Dear Kara,
If you are in Sydney Chinatown, do go up to Market city to try out.
I love his business savvy vision and the dishes are wonderfully presented.
Dear Arya,
You may not know Mr Meng but all Chinese in the world know about him. He did a dating show in China and it was so successful that it runs for 8 years if I am not mistaken.
I would love to go to a place like this. Everything looks so delicious!
Don’t forget to try their dessert too.
Oh so yummy!! I love beef stew and pork belly is another one of my fav dish. I wish I could be there right now to savour this
When you visit Sydney, do pay a visit to Mr Meng’s restaurant located in Level 3 Market City building, the basement is Paddy’s market.
I live in South Australia, so next time I am in Sydney, I will definitely check this place out! It is so cold today that a warming bowl of noodles would be lovely! 🙂
Yes, especially during winter.
The market looks like a great place to eat. The soups looked delicious as well. Thank you for sharing.
Dear Jackline,
Well, if you love spicy, you will enjoy the food in Mr Meng’s restaurant. Chongqing’s cuisine is well-known for its hot and spicy.