Chen’s Beef Noodles House 陈记牛肉面馆 Kreuzberg — Restaurant in Berlin

Chen's Beef Noodle Soup, a newcomer to the vibrant Kreuzberg food scene, promises to elevate Chinese cuisine in Berlin, and based on my recent experience, it delivers on that promise with gusto. Forget the tired, predictable fare of gloopy sauces and uninspired flavors that often plague Chinese restaurants across Europe – Chen's is a different beast entirely, offering a refreshingly authentic and meticulously crafted culinary experience.

My initial visit centered around the quintessential Lanzhou noodles, a seemingly simple dish of beef broth and freshly made noodles. In its simplicity lies its brilliance. This wasn't just a bowl of soup; it was a testament to the quality of ingredients and the skill of the chef. The noodles, clearly handmade, were perfectly textured – offering a satisfying chewiness and a subtle elasticity that factory-produced noodles simply can't replicate. They were the perfect vehicle for the star of the show: the broth.

The broth was nothing short of superb. It was rich and deeply flavorful, hinting at hours of simmering to extract every nuance of the beef. What truly set it apart was the delicate whisper of Sichuan peppercorns dancing on the palate. It wasn't overpowering, but rather a subtle warmth and tingling sensation that added a layer of complexity and sophistication to the overall flavor profile. The broth was a masterclass in balance, showcasing the chef's understanding of flavor and his commitment to authentic Chinese techniques.

My experience with the Lanzhou noodles led me to believe that if this simple preparation was so exquisite, the dishes featuring long-cooked beef must be truly exceptional. And I'm convinced I was right! I can only imagine the depth of flavor and tender texture of the beef after a slow braise in that incredible broth.

Chen's Beef Noodle Soup isn't just another Chinese restaurant; it's a culinary destination. It's a place where tradition meets innovation, where quality ingredients are treated with respect, and where the focus is squarely on delivering an authentic and unforgettable dining experience. It's a refreshing departure from the often-disappointing landscape of Chinese food in Europe and represents a significant step forward for the culinary...

The place has a great vibe, clean, cozy and full of authentic charm. The wontons in spicy red oil were excellent rich, flavorful, perfectly balanced. The Lanzhou beef noodles looked average, beef soft and noodles spot on but the broth was too clear and light and the radish just sat there like a plain vegetable with no seasoning.

Then came No.14 Beef Flatbread- honestly that one shocked me. From the menu photo, I expected something fluffy, maybe like a steamed bun but what arrived looked and tasted like a Dubai paratha. Just hot meat in bread, no seasoning, no soul. Please, either update the menu photo or serve it as a proper roujiamo with real sear and spice that would be heaven.

Amazing interior, but the flavors need more punch and...

My go-to noodles place in Berlin! I’ve been going here since it opened. My favorite is the one with red braised beef soup, but I love the biang biang noodles almost as much too! The spices are very well balanced and you just can’t stop eating! 🤤 In terms of service, this restaurant is way better than the average noodles places. They have table service and you don’t have to pay up front. I especially love the energy of the owner, she always treats us...