When it comes to Chinese cuisine, finding an authentic and satisfying meal can be a challenge in Baltimore. However, the culinary scene has recently seen improvements with the emergence of Colala Grind Express, a hidden gem tucked away in West Baltimore.
Opened in late 2022, Colala Grind Express quickly gained a cult following for its menu of hard-to-find Chinese street food delicacies. From the moment you step inside, the unassuming appearance may deceive you, but the flavors that await you are anything but ordinary.
One such standout dish is jianbing, a delectable cross between an omelet and a crepe. Featuring crispy fried wonton, lettuce, and a sweet and savory sauce, this combination of textures and flavors is a true delight. Another must-try dish is the grilled cold noodles, which consist of chewy noodles enveloped in a fluffy egg. For those who enjoy a spicy kick, adding extra spice is highly recommended.
Colala Grind Express is the brainchild of chef Zhenya Li, who, along with his wife Chunyan Liu, brings an extensive array of regional Chinese street food to Baltimore. Originally from Tianjin, China, Zhenya was determined to offer more genuine Chinese cuisine to Americans beyond the usual Westernized dishes like General Tso’s chicken and beef with broccoli.
Although Colala Grind Express faced challenges in building awareness, word of mouth has spread about its authentic and scrumptious offerings. From traditional lamb samosas to Chinese-style hamburgers that resemble tacos, each dish represents a unique aspect of Chinese culinary heritage.
At Colala Grind Express, everything is prepared from scratch, ensuring that each dish exemplifies authenticity and quality. From richly flavored duck broth wonton soup to sweet sesame “gnocchi,” the menu caters to a wide range of tastes. One standout dish is the red bean congee with dates, a comforting and nourishing breakfast option.
While opinions may differ on the best Chinese restaurant in Baltimore, Colala Grind Express undoubtedly provides a quick and delicious taste of the world’s most beloved cuisine. Don’t take our word for it; once you experience the flavors and textures of Colala’s dishes, you’ll find yourself coming back for more.
FAQs about Colala Grind Express
1. What is Colala Grind Express?
Colala Grind Express is a hidden gem of a Chinese restaurant located in West Baltimore. It specializes in serving authentic and hard-to-find Chinese street food delicacies.
2. What are some standout dishes at Colala Grind Express?
Two standout dishes at Colala Grind Express are jianbing, a combination of an omelet and a crepe with crispy fried wonton, lettuce, and a sweet and savory sauce, and grilled cold noodles, which are chewy noodles enveloped in a fluffy egg.
3. Who is the chef behind Colala Grind Express?
Chef Zhenya Li, originally from Tianjin, China, is the mastermind behind Colala Grind Express. He brings an extensive array of regional Chinese street food to Baltimore, aiming to offer more genuine Chinese cuisine options beyond the usual Westernized dishes.
4. Are the dishes at Colala Grind Express authentic?
Yes, everything at Colala Grind Express is prepared from scratch, ensuring authenticity and quality in each dish. The menu showcases a wide range of traditional Chinese flavors and ingredients.
5. What are some recommended dishes at Colala Grind Express?
Besides jianbing and grilled cold noodles, other recommended dishes at Colala Grind Express include traditional lamb samosas, Chinese-style hamburgers resembling tacos, richly flavored duck broth wonton soup, and sweet sesame “gnocchi.”
6. Does Colala Grind Express offer breakfast options?
Yes, Colala Grind Express has breakfast options as well. One notable dish is the red bean congee with dates, which is described as a comforting and nourishing breakfast option.
7. Is Colala Grind Express popular?
Colala Grind Express has gained a cult following in Baltimore due to its authentic and scrumptious offerings. Despite facing initial challenges in building awareness, word of mouth has spread, and it has become known for providing a quick and delicious taste of Chinese cuisine.
Key Terms:
– Jianbing: A Chinese street food delicacy that is a combination of an omelet and a crepe, typically made with crispy fried wonton, lettuce, and a sweet and savory sauce.
– Colala: The name of the Chinese restaurant, Colala Grind Express.
Related Links:
– Colala Grind Express Website