As you step through the red door at 230 7th Ave., you are greeted by a sleek, modern interior at Noodle Lane. The narrow space features stained pine floors, wooden tables adorned with miniature lamps, and walls decorated with framed photos and shelves holding tiny plants. Behind a Plexiglass barrier lies a bustling kitchen, emitting enticing aromas.
Noodle Lane is the brainchild of Lane Li, a remarkable woman with an extraordinary story. Fleeing poverty in China, Li’s family made their home in America, where they shared a two-bedroom apartment with seven relatives. Despite the challenges, Li became the first in her family to graduate college and ventured into the financial sector.
However, her true passion lay in the flavors of her homeland. Li spent countless hours honing her skills in Chinese cuisine, traveling across Asia, and even obtaining a culinary degree from NYC’s Institute of Culinary Education. In 2011, her dreams took a major leap forward when she secured a stand at Brooklyn’s renowned Smorgasburg food bazaar.
Li’s vision for Noodle Lane goes beyond simply serving delicious food. She aims to break the pervasive stereotype in America that Chinese cuisine is cheap and lacking complexity. Instead, Li emphasizes the use of quality ingredients and meticulous preparation to showcase the artistry and depth of Chinese cuisine, proving that it can rival any haute cuisine in the world.
Noodle Lane’s menu is a testament to this mission. Drawing inspiration from Cantonese and Sichuan kitchens, Li incorporates bold and spicy flavors while balancing them with milder elements. Highlights include house-made dumplings, Dan Dan Noodles with a tantalizing combination of pork, Sichuan pickles, scallions, and chili oil, and the flavorful Pickled Fish Sichuan Style featuring tilapia, garlic, and chili peppers.
What sets Noodle Lane apart is not only its culinary prowess but also its approachable atmosphere and user-friendly menu. The contemporary setting invites patrons to indulge in sophisticated dishes that defy stereotypes. It’s an establishment where Li’s passion and dreams come together to create a welcoming space that challenges perceptions and elevates the art of Chinese cuisine.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is Noodle Lane?
Noodle Lane is a restaurant located at 230 7th Ave. It offers a modern and sophisticated dining experience with a focus on Chinese cuisine.
2. Who is Lane Li?
Lane Li is the founder and owner of Noodle Lane. She has a remarkable background, having fled poverty in China and becoming the first in her family to graduate college. Despite working in the financial sector, her true passion lies in Chinese cuisine.
3. How did Noodle Lane start?
After honing her culinary skills and obtaining a culinary degree, Li secured a stand at Brooklyn’s Smorgasburg food bazaar in 2011. This marked a major leap forward for her dreams of showcasing the artistry and depth of Chinese cuisine.
4. What is the mission of Noodle Lane?
Noodle Lane aims to challenge the stereotype that Chinese cuisine is cheap and lacking complexity. Instead, Li emphasizes the use of quality ingredients and meticulous preparation to prove that Chinese cuisine can rival any haute cuisine in the world.
5. What type of menu does Noodle Lane offer?
Noodle Lane’s menu draws inspiration from Cantonese and Sichuan kitchens. It incorporates bold and spicy flavors while balancing them with milder elements. Noteworthy dishes include house-made dumplings, Dan Dan Noodles, and the Pickled Fish Sichuan Style.
6. What sets Noodle Lane apart?
Noodle Lane stands out not only for its culinary prowess but also for its approachable atmosphere and user-friendly menu. It challenges stereotypes and provides a dining experience that defies expectations.
Definitions
1. Culinary degree: A formal education in culinary arts, typically obtained from a culinary school or institute.
2. Cantonese cuisine: A style of Chinese cuisine originating from the Guangdong province, known for its emphasis on fresh ingredients and delicate flavors.
3. Sichuan cuisine: A style of Chinese cuisine originating from the Sichuan province, characterized by its bold and spicy flavors.
4. Haute cuisine: A high-end and refined style of cooking, often associated with French cuisine, that emphasizes exquisite presentation and intricate techniques.
Related Links
– Noodle Lane Official Website
– Smorgasburg Food Bazaar