New Authentic Chinese Street Food Spot Emerges in West Baltimore

When it comes to Chinese cuisine in Baltimore, finding a good restaurant can be a challenge. However, the arrival of Colala Grind Express in late 2022 has changed the game. Located in West Baltimore, this hidden gem has quickly built a cult following for its authentic Chinese street food.

One of the standout dishes at Colala Grind Express is jianbing, a delightful blend of omelet and crepe. Filled with crispy fried wonton, lettuce, and a sweet and savory sauce, this dish offers a unique combination of flavors and textures. Another must-try is the grilled cold noodles, a specialty from China’s northernmost province. This savory omelet wrapped in a chewy noodle is best enjoyed extra spicy.

But it’s not just the menu that sets Colala Grind Express apart. Chef Zhenya Li and his wife, Chunyan Liu, are responsible for bringing this vast array of Chinese street food to Baltimore. Originally from Tianjin, China, Li yearned for more authentic Chinese cuisine in the United States and decided to make a change. His dedication to quality is evident in every dish, with everything being authentically Chinese and made from scratch.

Despite facing challenges in getting the word out about their restaurant, the quality of the food has never been in doubt. Colala Grind Express offers a menu filled with hard-to-find Chinese specialties, including traditional lamb samosas and Chinese-style hamburgers. And for those with a sweet tooth, the menu includes a variety of desserts like sesame “gnocchi” and red bean congee.

While some may argue that Colala Grind Express isn’t the best Chinese food in the city, it certainly offers a delicious taste of authentic Chinese street food. Don’t just take our word for it – once you try their food, you’ll be coming back for more. So why wait? Explore the flavors of China right here in West Baltimore at Colala Grind Express.

FAQ:

Q: Where is Colala Grind Express located?
A: Colala Grind Express is located in West Baltimore.

Q: What type of cuisine does Colala Grind Express serve?
A: Colala Grind Express serves authentic Chinese street food.

Q: What is jianbing?
A: Jianbing is a dish that is a blend of omelet and crepe, filled with crispy fried wonton, lettuce, and a sweet and savory sauce.

Q: What is another recommended dish at Colala Grind Express?
A: Another recommended dish is the grilled cold noodles, which is a savory omelet wrapped in a chewy noodle, best enjoyed extra spicy.

Q: Who are the people responsible for bringing Chinese street food to Baltimore?
A: Chef Zhenya Li and his wife, Chunyan Liu, are responsible for bringing Chinese street food to Baltimore.

Q: Where are Chef Zhenya Li and Chunyan Liu originally from?
A: Chef Zhenya Li and Chunyan Liu are originally from Tianjin, China.

Q: What types of desserts are on the menu at Colala Grind Express?
A: The menu includes desserts such as sesame “gnocchi” and red bean congee.

Definitions:

– Jianbing: A Chinese dish that is a blend of omelet and crepe, filled with various ingredients.
– Omelet: A dish made from beaten eggs, cooked until set.
– Crepe: A thin, pancake-like dish made from a batter and cooked in a flat pan.
– Wonton: A type of dumpling commonly found in Chinese cuisine.
– Savory: Having a pleasant or appetizing taste or smell.
– Authentic: Genuine or real, often used to describe something that is true to its origins or traditions.
– Chewy: Having a texture that requires chewing.
– Samosas: A fried or baked pastry filled with savory ingredients, commonly found in Indian cuisine.
– Hamburgers: A type of sandwich consisting of a cooked patty of ground meat, typically beef, served in a bun.
– Sweet tooth: A craving or preference for sweet food.
– Gnocchi: Small Italian dumplings made from potato, semolina, or flour.
– Congee: A type of rice porridge commonly eaten in Asian countries.

Suggested related links:
Colala Grind Express official website
Baltimore Colala website