Philadelphia, PA - Looking around dining room, You can't help but notice that my friend and I were the only non-Chinese patrons in the noodle house. As a general rule, when it comes to hole-in-the-wall restaurants, this is good sign.
In the heart of Philadelphia's bustling Chinatown, at 1022 Race Street, lies a beloved, no-frills institution dedicated to the art of the noodle: Nan Zhou Hand Drawn Noodle House. For those seeking an authentic and delicious experience, a visit here is essential. The moment you see a dining room packed with local Chinese patrons, you know you've found a good sign, and Nan Zhou consistently delivers with its incredible, freshly made noodles and aromatic broths.
The Main Event: The Hand-Drawn Noodles
The star of the show at Nan Zhou is undoubtedly the house-made, hand-drawn wheat noodles. Prepared fresh for each order, these noodles have a perfect, chewy texture that is impossible to replicate with dried pasta. They serve as the foundation for the restaurant's extensive menu of soul-warming soups.
A Tour of the Menu:
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Signature Noodle Soups: The menu features a wide variety of noodle soups. The Seafood Noodle Soup is a popular choice, arriving in a massive bowl filled with the signature noodles in a mild, aromatic broth. The soup is packed with fresh sea scallops, littleneck clams still in their shells, and tail-on shrimp, all perfectly cooked. The Fish Ball Noodle Soup is another classic, featuring soft yet chewy fish balls made from pulverized white fish.
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Adventurous Appetizers: For those with a more adventurous palate, the appetizer menu offers authentic dishes like the Aromatic Mixed Platter, which can feature sliced beef, beef tendon, and pig ears, all topped with a flavorful garlic sauce.
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Incredible Value: While prices have evolved over the years, Nan Zhou remains known for offering incredible value, with huge, satisfying bowls of soup at a very reasonable price point.
The Atmosphere: All About the Food
Don't come to Nan Zhou expecting fancy decor. The atmosphere is classic Chinatown: bright fluorescent lighting, simple laminate tabletops, and a bustling, energetic dining room. The focus here is entirely on the food. The sounds of diners eagerly and audibly slurping their delicious noodles is part of the authentic experience. It's an unpretentious spot where the quality of the meal is the main attraction.
Nan Zhou Hand Drawn Noodle House is a true Philadelphia gem and a must-visit for anyone who loves authentic noodle soup. Its commitment to fresh, handmade noodles, flavorful broths, and generous portions has made it a beloved staple in Chinatown. For a comforting, delicious, and authentic dining experience, this is one of the best spots in the city.
Nan Zhou Hand Drawn Noodle House
1022 Race Street
Lunch & Dinner
