Max Noodle House - Richmond

This place is strict about customization; you can’t request no MSG or no garlic, as everything is pre-prepared with MSG. I initially thought about ordering wonton noodles, but I realized the MSG in the wontons would be overwhelming, so I opted for a collagen dish instead—beef tendon noodles. The portion was just right, allowing me to sample some of the other dishes my brother ordered. The beef tendon was incredibly tender and practically melted in my mouth. The deep-fried tofu was a standout; its skin was so light and crispy that it was truly impressive! My dining companions stopped to watch my reaction as I took my first bite, and they were rewarded with my gasp of delight at the amazing crispiness. The fish congee was wonderfully smooth, but I wasn't thrilled with the Chinese donut— it didn't taste fresh enough. Overall, the MSG flavor lingered in my mouth, but it didn't cause the same digestive discomfort I've experienced at some other Chinese restaurants. To combat the MSG taste, we decided to enjoy some oat lattes afterward.

It wasn't very crowded on a Saturday morning around 11:30 AM. The food was excellent, as always, and probably better than the one in Central Hong Kong. However, the server forgot to place the order for one item, and we ended up waiting an extra 15 minutes for it after finishing all the other dishes. Additionally, the prices were surprisingly high compared to the various restaurants we visited over the weekend.

This restaurant is a must-visit for me whenever I'm in Vancouver. However, this time, I was quite disappointed with the texture of the wonton noodles. In the past (before the pandemic), the noodles were perfectly crisp and al dente. While the soup was still flavorful and the wontons were tasty, the noodles felt like the ones you buy at the supermarket. Unfortunately, it didn't live up to the $14 price tag, especially after factoring in the cost of the flight.

The food is extraordinary! It's a cozy little spot, so it's advisable to arrive early. Please note that they only accept cash, so be sure to come prepared.

I used to really enjoy this place, but after paying $17 for a very small dish, I think I’ll have to skip it next time. The food was decent, but when you compare it to a respectable sushi restaurant that would give you a combo of nigiri and a few rolls for the same price, it just doesn’t measure up—especially when what I received was a plate of pig’s feet that was mostly bones.