Hot Noodle Soups in Maryland

A bowl of hot noodle soup packed with flavors is a kind of "necessity" to me at this time of the year when the winds become chilly and days get shorter. Although the density of good restaurants in Maryland is not that high, I am surprised with some authentic noodle places that I found in my neighborhood.

Phở 75    1510 University Blvd E, Hyattsville, MD 20783

Phở 75 in Hyattsville is not the place you would look for fancy Vietnamese culinary experience. It is really a humble place, and delicious phởs available "in cash only". The broth is well seasoned, has clean flavor and the rice noodle has the right texture. Even the condiments and garnishes are simple yet perfect.

You can find many good Vietnamese restaurants serving great variety of Vietnamese cuisines in Falls Church, VA... but, in my opinion, Phở 75 in Hyattsville can beat those restaurants with its flavorful phở!


Joe's Noodle House    1488 Rockville Pike, Rockville, MD 20852

Joe's Noodle House is one of best restaurants I have ever tried. Ok, this restaurant is again not a fancy Chinese place, and like most of Chinese restaurants, Joe's Noodle House has an extensive menu. All the foods that I tried was very nice, but the most delicious one is #H25 - "Hot & Sour Fish Fillet w/ Cellophane Noodle in Broth". Sour pickled mustard greens, hot bird's eye chilies (a.k.a. Thai chili), and lightly battered fish fillets are melted into the soup and create really well balanced noodle soup with clear cellophane noodle.

This is a bit spicy, so if you are not a master of spicy food, say "less spicy please" when you order the noodle soup. A large bowl of rice comes with the noodle soup and the portion is at least for two persons. Just add one more vegetable dish (usually listed in the whiteboard behind the counter) for a great meal for two.


Ren's Ramen    11403 Amherst Ave, Wheaton, MD 20902

Ren's Ramen in Wheaton is actually the only ramen place that I found in Maryland. Fortunately(!), the ramens are great. Tonkotsu broth, ramen noodle from Sapporo, Japan and simple toppings served in this small restaurant is satisfying and full of flavor. Your choice of miso, shoyu (soy sauce), or salt flavored tonkotsu broth is perfect for this cold weather.