I had a strange longing for noodles, today, so hot-footed it towards Edinburgh’s noodle district to sort myself out.
Exterior
For those unaware that Edinburgh had a noodle district, it’s not one of those widely appreciated, official things. It’s more of a Lunchquest designation, given all the noodle shops and pan-Asian places clustered around Lothian Road, including Golden Wall, the Meadowood Café, the glorious Kanpai, Yummytori, Wagamama and today’s new addition to the club, Hei.
Although Hei is new, the interior has something of a “classic” feel to it, with curiously dated chairs. It’s neat and tidy enough, although not quite as shiny and modern as its exterior.
Salt and chilli beancurd
Service was prompt and to the point, with menus swiftly brought for my consideration, as I took a seat near the window, during a busy lunchtime service.
I had three menus to consider: an express lunchtime menu, offering two courses for £5.50; a dim sum menu; and their full a la carte. I chose from the lunchtime menu, as I’d spotted a noodly dish that fit my requirement, and was happy to try their salt and chilli beancurd, to start. I accompanied things with a big pot of jasmine tea, for the princely sum of £0.80.
Noodles
The starter soon arrived and looked plentiful. It proved to be really rather good, with a good crisp exterior to the tofu, then plenty of saltiness and warm heat from the seasoning, making the dish an enjoyable eat.
The main course of Singapore noodles was pretty good, too, although it could have used a touch extra pop to liven things up. It satisfied my noodle need, but could have done so with a little greater pizzazz.
So overall, I found Hei to be a good stop for a filling, well-priced lunch. I’m intrigued to have a try at their dim sum menu, where I hope they delivery dishes with panache and elegance. If you find yourself in the noodle district and in need of a quick, cheap lunch, I’d be happy to point you towards Hei.
Scores
Blythe scores Hei
3.5/5 for food
3/5 for presentation
3/5 for setting
3.5/5 for service
giving an overall 13/20
Today’s quester was: Blythe
I ate: salt and chilli bean curd, Singapore noodles
I drank: jasmine tea
I wore: symphonic tones of brown
Total bill: £6.30
