Northwest Chinese Food

Northwest Chinese Food

One of my absolute favorite inexpensive eats near the University of Maryland is Northwest Chinese Food! I shouldn’t even really say favorite inexpensive eats, because it is one of my Top 5 eateries near campus, period. That it’s very reasonably priced is an added bonus. 

It’s a relatively small restaurant, and there’s often a wait at peak times (lunch and dinner). You could always get your order to go, and a lot of folks do. But, the restaurant is bright and welcoming, so if you have the time, you should eat in.

Hot oil seared knife cut noodles with tomato and egg from Northwest Chinese Food

My go to order is the hot oil seared knife cut noodles with tomato and egg. It is the perfect combination of spicy and chewy noodles. You’ll be tempted to eat it all but then you’ll be in a food coma. I do not recommend attempting to walk across campus after such a filling meal. Trust me. I’ve tried it.

Another favorite are the rou jia mo or “Chinese hamburgers.” I like the spicy egg burger – egg, onions, lots of spice. You can also try the pork, beef, or lamb or the combination burgers. Although you might think of hamburgers as originating from somewhere in Europe, the Chinese hamburger predates any American-ish version. Rou jia mo date back to the Qin dynasty (221BC to 207 BC). Contemporarily, rou jia mo are typically found as a street food, and you could certainly very easily order a few to go and eat them as you head back to campus.

Finally, be sure to get the black vinegar peanuts. You can get them as an appetizer or a container to go. I recommend a container to go so that you have a very tasty snack for later.

AND, if you’re looking for a hot beverage, Northwest Chinese Food serves citron tea – citrus fruit and honey. A perfect cup for a cold day after trekking across campus to get there or get it iced as a refreshing treat. Citron tea is one of my favorite teas (especially when I’m at a Korean bakery). Aside from its delightful flavor, citron tea is good for relieving coughs and sore throat due to its Vitamin C. It’s also believed to help digestion, increase blood circulation, and enhance your skin. I’m not 100% sure it does all of those things, but it’s worth giving it a try!

Braised potato and pork rib noodles from Northwest Chinese Food

Northwest noodle soup with veggies from Northwest Chinese Food

 

Northwest Chinese Food
7313 Baltimore Avenue
College Park, MD 20740
(240) 714-4473
*closed on Mondays