We were on our way to Okoto Ramen in Alexandra Central Mall when we noticed this small eatery with a small crowd outside. Curious, we looked it up on Google and saw it had a rating of 4.7 / 5 and we went ahead to leave our contact details for a table.
Is This Chinese or Japanese Cuisine?
Interestingly, Liu Lang Mian Noodle Bar serves up a fusion of Japanese and Chinese influence. I would say the soup is similar to Japanese Tonkatsu while the noodles are like the Chinese La Mian and the protein, a mix of both with ramen soy egg and chinese lor bak. The highly recommended dishes are the Grilled Duck Chashu Soup and Signature Chili Mazesoba with Lor Bak.
The shop space is tight but it is just like traditional Japanese ramen shops, which is good for the shop’s turnover as customers would not want to linger too long after they are done with their meals.
Grilled Duck Soba
The soup is made with a shoyu base and 8 hours duck paitan broth derived from duck bones and niboshi (sardine). It tasted rich, smoky and umami but on the saltier side. This would resonate well with those who like strong bold flavours. The noodles were thicker than the usual soba and were cooked al dente and had a good chew to it. We added a ramen egg, which was done well with a jammy yolk. Special mention has to be given to the slices of duck which were tender and its not dry as some chashu can be.
Signature Dry Chili Mazesoba with Lor Bak
Mix it well with the onsen egg to get a smooth creamy bowl of noodles. The noodles were quite spicy (much spicier than Lao Gan Ma) and there was an underlying flavour, which I could not make out what it was but I didn’t really like that. The lor bak was fork tender and the fat just melted away in our mouths. This could be a good bowl of spicy mazesoba but alas that one ingredient used didn’t sit well with me.
Har Cheong Karaage
Crispy chicken with a mild prawn paste flavor, perfect as an appetizer for kids.
Final Thoughts
Overall, Liu Lang Mian Noodle Bar has proven that the fusion between Japanese and Chinese cuisine can work well together. The flavour profile was overwhelming for us and the children. Perhaps the chef created these dishes for his own target market which prefers strong and bold flavours. The indoor seating can leave a lingering food smell on clothing so it is best to opt for outdoor seats if you’re sensitive.
Rating: 3 / 5
Liu Lang Mian Noodle Bar
321 Alexandra Rd, #01-03 Outside Alexandra Mall, Singapore 159971
Google Maps Link: https://maps.app.goo.gl/2ssQMLXgvtpmRZnN7
