Restaurant review: Mian, Quarry Bay - noodles and more

As you would expect from a restaurant named Mian, the emphasis here is on noodles, although there are other satisfying dishes. It's a small, friendly neighbourhood spot frequented by families, workmen and couples. The interior has whitewashed brick walls and tables that are very close together. The menu seems to have expanded since the move from North Point.

The pappardelle-shaped noodles and the round fat noodles can be ordered with an assortment of toppings. We tried the pappardelle noodles with delicate pieces of pork belly that had been braised with Chinese red glutinous wine lees (HK$45) and an order of pork spare ribs cooked with a light, refreshing sauce with the round noodles (HK$48). An excellent accompaniment to these dishes was the soft boiled duck eggs with Chinese wine (HK$15 each). The braised pork intestines (HK$48) were fantastic and were cleaned thoroughly.

We tried several (master sauce) dishes: the pork brisket with tendon and pork cheeks (HK$88), pork tongue (HK$38) and duck tongues (HK$38). All were well done. We particularly liked the wonderfully tender cheeks and the brisket/tendon, which had really absorbed the rich taste of the long-simmered sauce. Taiwanese-style chicken wings (HK$32) were a last minute addition to our meal because we saw that every other table had ordered them. They were crisp and well-flavoured.

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Mian, 48 Pan Hoi Street, Quarry Bay. Tel: 3482 9981. Open: Monday-Saturday noon-9.30pm