Known for its shortage of good Chinese restaurants, Baltimore has recently experienced a welcome change with the arrival of Peter Chang’s establishments. However, there is a new hidden gem in West Baltimore that is gaining attention among food enthusiasts. Colala Grind Express, which opened its doors in late 2022, has quickly built a cult following for its expansive menu of Chinese street food.
One standout dish at Colala is jianbing, a mouthwatering combination of an omelet and a crepe. The crispy fried wonton, lettuce, and the sweet, spicy, and savory sauce create a delightful medley of flavors and textures. Another must-try is the grilled cold noodles, a specialty from China’s northernmost province. This dish features a chewy noodle wrapped in an egg, and the extra spice adds an exciting kick to every bite.
Colala Grind Express offers a diverse selection of hard-to-find Chinese street food delicacies, attracting customers from near and far. One loyal patron, Ruby Yuan, a native of Wuhan, China, has become a regular at the restaurant, vouching for its authenticity and dedication to traditional Chinese cuisine.
Behind the mouthwatering food is chef Zhenya Li, who, along with his wife Chunyan Liu, brings the rich and diverse flavors of Chinese street fare to Baltimore diners. Li, who moved from Tianjin, China, to the United States in 2018, aimed to challenge the limited perception of Chinese food in America. At Colala, everything is made from scratch using only the freshest ingredients, even if it means Li working until the early hours of the morning.
Colala’s menu features an array of dishes that span hundreds of years of Chinese geography and history. From savory soups like duck broth wonton soup and braised beef soup to delightful desserts like sesame “gnocchi” and red bean congee with dates, there is something to satisfy every palate.
While declaring the “best” Chinese food is subjective, Colala Grind Express offers a quick and delicious taste of authentic Chinese street food. It may not dethrone Peter Chang’s Canton restaurant, but it provides a welcome representation of the world’s most beloved cuisine. Once you’ve experienced Colala’s flavors, you’ll undoubtedly find yourself coming back for more.
FAQ Section:
1. What is Colala Grind Express?
Colala Grind Express is a new Chinese restaurant in West Baltimore that specializes in Chinese street food.
2. What are some standout dishes at Colala?
Some standout dishes at Colala include jianbing, a combination of an omelet and a crepe, and the grilled cold noodles, a specialty from China’s northernmost province.
3. Who is the chef at Colala Grind Express?
The chef at Colala is Zhenya Li, who brings the rich and diverse flavors of Chinese street fare to Baltimore diners.
4. Where is the chef from?
The chef, Zhenya Li, is originally from Tianjin, China.
5. Are the ingredients at Colala made from scratch?
Yes, at Colala everything is made from scratch using only the freshest ingredients.
6. What is the range of dishes on Colala’s menu?
Colala’s menu features dishes that span hundreds of years of Chinese geography and history, including savory soups, braised beef soup, delightful desserts, and more.
7. Does Colala Grind Express offer authentic Chinese street food?
Yes, Colala Grind Express offers a taste of authentic Chinese street food.
8. Can Colala Grind Express compete with Peter Chang’s Canton restaurant?
While declaring the “best” Chinese food is subjective, Colala Grind Express provides a welcome representation of Chinese cuisine and offers a quick and delicious taste of authentic Chinese street food.
Definitions:
– Jianbing: A Chinese street food dish that is a combination of an omelet and a crepe.
– Tianjin: A city in China where the chef, Zhenya Li, is originally from.
Related Links:
Peter Chang Restaurants