Walala Hand-Pulled Noodles

The dinner-and-a-show concept is nothing new, but at Walala Hand Pulled Noodles in the Mills 50 neighborhood, dinner is the show. The family-owned and operated restaurant is known for its Lanzhou-style hand-pulled noodles (each pulled to order), served in a variety of ways and completely customizable. When I go to the restaurant, I always opt for the hand-pulled noodles, though knife-cut, rice noodles, and hor fun noodles are also available. Then comes picking your toppings, which range from beef short rib stew to dandan pork dry noodles. Be sure to pair your meal with a few shareable small bites, like popcorn chicken with yuzu ranch, chopped cucumber salad, and a Chinese fried doughnut. 

And let’s not forget the show part of the meal. No matter where you sit inside the restaurant, you’ll be able to see into the kitchen through a large picture window as the chef pulls noodles. I love walking up to the window for a few moments to marvel at the chefs who have very obviously mastered their craft.