Lanzhou Chinese Beef Noodles Restaurant, offering authentic Chinese cuisine, has recently been making waves in Pakistan, particularly in Rawalpindi’s bustling food street. Known for its eye-catching and original Chinese flavors, the restaurant has become a focal point for food enthusiasts seeking a unique culinary experience. The restaurant is run by a Chinese family from Lanzhou, China, which has been residing in Pakistan for the past 12 years.  According to Gwadar, over the years, they have successfully established two branches—one in Islamabad and another recently in Rawalpindi.

Daniyal Khan, the manager, told Gwadar Pro that their menu features a variety of traditional Chinese dishes, including dumplings, Chinese soups, and fried beef and chicken dishes, all prepared with authentic techniques and flavors. He said the restaurant has quickly gained popularity, especially among young customers.

He mentioned that the dining area is often full, with the restaurant welcoming around 400-500 customers each week, showcasing its rising popularity.  The restaurant employs a mix of Chinese and Pakistani staff, with two skilled Chinese chefs at each branch ensuring the authenticity of the dishes. The remaining team consists of 10-12 Pakistani staff members who assist in operations and customer service. Daniyal Khan emphasized the restaurant’s commitment to maintaining an authentic Chinese dining experience. 

He revealed that all ingredients, as well as the machinery and crockery, are imported directly from China. This dedication to authenticity ensures that every dish served retains its original flavors and quality.Nadiya Sohail, a customer, shared her experience, praising the large bowl of noodles with a light broth, expertly hand-pulled by a Chinese chef in the kitchen. She expressed deep admiration for the skill and effort behind the dish. “The dish includes a mix of chicken and vegetables, tossed in authentic Chinese sauces, and can be enhanced with a drizzle of chili oil for an extra kick. The portion is generous—perfect for one hungry individual or two people with lighter appetites,” she said.

Nadiya highly recommends it, especially for those who enjoy exploring different cuisines. “The restaurant has a cozy, homely vibe and tends to attract a mix of foreigners and Chinese patrons.  The gracious and kind family running the place makes the experience worthwhile. If you’re in Islamabad or Rawalpindi and craving delicious, authentic noodles, this spot should definitely be at the top of your list,” she added.

Lanzhou beef noodles, a traditional Chinese dish originating from Lanzhou, Gansu, China, has gained international popularity due to its unique flavor and cultural significance. In Pakistan, the dish has also started to gain traction, particularly in urban areas with a growing interest in diverse cuisines. With the increasing influence of Chinese culture and the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), which has strengthened ties between China and Pakistan, there has been a growing interest in Chinese cuisine. 

The proliferation of Chinese restaurants in major Pakistani cities like Islamabad, Lahore, and Karachi has made Lanzhou beef noodles more accessible to locals. Many of these restaurants are run by Chinese expatriates or Pakistani chefs trained in Chinese cooking.

Credit: Independent News Pakistan (INP) — Pak-China