I had asked my friend to bring me to a unique spot in Richmond. I hardly get out that far, so when in the city, I want to make sure I am tasting the latest thing. And to see individuals willingly waiting in lines to eat with “Xiang Yuan Qiao” was reassuring. Its name is in Chinese because this is the reality of Richmond, it translates to “…Cross Bridge”. The name of the restaurant and what they serve comes with an origin story. This heritage is noted on their menu and is seen in aspects of their decor; with even their mascot speaking to this history as well.
Second time trying this Yunnan noodle house. I do like this noodle house. You can choose either hotpot noodles or the Cross Bridge noodles. They also offer many different kind of condiments. Service is just so-so, food quality is not bad.
It is a fun process to build yourself a bowl of the "Crossing the Bridge" rice noodle soup, which combines the interesting elements of hot pot and Pho. Just remember to do it really quick because there are too many cold ingredients for the boiling hot broth. But when I visit here next time, I would probably just get the regular noodle soup, which is just as delicious but cheaper.
![Zomato]( "Recensione")
The noodles were separated into two categories:
"Regular" noodles (around $8 - $10)
"Premium" noodles (around $12.75)
**I'm calling them "regular" and "premium" because I don't remember the official categories names on the menu. :P
Both the "regular" and "premium" noodles share the same broth; which is presumably the Chinese pork-boned based clear soup. The only choice of noodle type is rice noodle. From what I could tell, the "regular" noodles come in fewer default toppings, and the overall portion size is just... regular; whereas, the "premium" noodles come with fancier toppings + a giant bowl. The only choice you have to make is what type of meat you want, and the selection is huge: fish, pork, beef, chicken, assorted meat/fish balls, and luncheon meat, etc.
Marinated Cumber - $4.95
Simple and refreshing starter. It was spicy with a hint of sweetness. It was also a good complement of the hot noodles we were about to eat.
Sauces & condiments - free!
Yup, there was a sauce station where you could grab your own sauces/condiments: black vinegar, chili sauce, green onions, garlic, cilantro, and sesame oil, etc.
"Premium" Lamb/Pork Belly Noodles - $12.75 each
As seen in the photos, came with the same toppings except for the choice of meat. Our soups were served in a boiling hot ceramic bowl. The idea was to put every ingredient into the soup while it was still boiling (kinda like hotpot). I couldn't help but to peak at other tables, and I noticed another key difference between the "regular" and "premium" noodles. The "regular" ones lacked the presentation/wow factor, as the soup noodles were served with everything premixed.
About how they actually taste...
Rice noodles were very fresh. Texture was excellent.
Soup was deliciously addicting.
You could choose your spiciness level. Mild = no chili flakes. If you want the taste of chili flakes, get medium+
Both the lamb and pork belly were tender
THE.TOPPINGS.ARE.AWESOME!
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