When it comes to Chinese cuisine in Baltimore, finding a good restaurant can be a challenge. However, the city’s food scene has been improving with the arrival of Peter Chang’s restaurants. But what if I told you there’s a hidden gem in West Baltimore that offers a unique and expansive menu of Chinese street food? Introducing Colala Grind Express.
Opened in late 2022, Colala Grind Express has quickly gained a cult following for its diverse selection of Chinese street food specialties that are hard to find elsewhere. From the delicious jianbing, a combination of an omelet and a crepe filled with crispy wonton, lettuce, and a sweet and savory sauce, to the savory omelet known as grilled cold noodles, Colala has something for every palate.
One of the standout dishes at Colala is the traditional lamb samosa, which may sound like the Indian pastry, but it’s more like a flaky lamb bun. And don’t miss their rou ga mo, a Chinese version of a hamburger that resembles a taco. The menu also offers a unique tofu soup that can be enjoyed in either a salty or sweet version, which reflects the contrasting preferences between the North and South of China.
Chef Zhenya Li and his wife, Chunyan Liu, are the masterminds behind Colala Grind Express. Zhenya, originally from Tianjin, China, moved to the United States in 2018 with a passion for introducing authentic Chinese flavors to American diners. Frustrated with the limited representation of Chinese cuisine in the US, he set out to create a menu that showcases the diverse range of dishes from different regions of China.
Authenticity is the heart of Colala’s kitchen, with everything made from scratch and prepared by Chef Zhenya himself. The menu features a variety of soups, such as the rich and flavorful duck broth wonton soup and the hearty braised beef soup. For those with a sweet tooth, the sesame “gnocchi” filled with black sesame paste and the red bean congee with dates offer a delightful ending to any meal.
While opinions on the “best” Chinese food in the city may vary, the quick and delicious comfort food found at Colala Grind Express is certainly a welcome addition to Baltimore’s dining scene. Give it a try and experience the bold flavors and unique dishes that this hidden gem has to offer. One visit is all it takes to become a regular customer, just like my own experience.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about Colala Grind Express:
1. What is Colala Grind Express?
Colala Grind Express is a restaurant in West Baltimore that offers a diverse selection of Chinese street food specialties. It has gained popularity for its unique menu and authentic flavors.
2. What kind of dishes can I find at Colala Grind Express?
At Colala Grind Express, you can find a variety of Chinese street food dishes, including jianbing (a combination of omelet and crepe filled with crispy wonton), grilled cold noodles (a savory omelet), traditional lamb samosa (flaky lamb bun), and rou ga mo (a Chinese version of a hamburger resembling a taco).
3. Is the menu at Colala Grind Express authentic?
Yes, the menu at Colala Grind Express is focused on authenticity. The dishes are made from scratch by Chef Zhenya Li, who moved to the United States with a passion for introducing authentic Chinese flavors to American diners. The menu showcases a diverse range of dishes from different regions of China.
4. What are some recommended dishes at Colala Grind Express?
Some standout dishes at Colala Grind Express include jianbing, grilled cold noodles, traditional lamb samosa, and rou ga mo. Other recommended options are the unique tofu soup (available in salty or sweet versions) and various soups such as duck broth wonton soup and braised beef soup. For dessert, try the sesame “gnocchi” filled with black sesame paste or the red bean congee with dates.
5. Who are the masterminds behind Colala Grind Express?
Chef Zhenya Li and his wife, Chunyan Liu, are the masterminds behind Colala Grind Express. Chef Zhenya, originally from Tianjin, China, moved to the United States in 2018 with a mission to showcase authentic Chinese cuisine.
6. Why is Colala Grind Express considered a hidden gem?
Colala Grind Express is considered a hidden gem because it offers a unique and expansive menu of Chinese street food that is hard to find elsewhere. Its authentic flavors, diverse range of dishes, and made-from-scratch preparations make it a standout in Baltimore’s dining scene.
For more information, you can visit the official website of Colala Grind Express.