We planned to meet my partner’s friend on the wonderful Roosevelt Island. For those that haven’t been to Roosevelt Island, there are literally 3 different ways to get there: the F train, the tram (cable car), or transportation via bridge from the Astoria side. With the hopefully slim possibility of living there, my partner wanted to meet their friend and also check out local food delights. Zhongzhong Noodles had been on my list for quite a while, so I figured now is a good time to try it out.

Ambiance

This is a no frills place with not much decor at all. There’s a counter facing the main street that diners can eat at. Otherwise, most people seem to be placing either take away and delivery orders.

Food

The pork and chive dumplings ($4.49) came with 4 pieces. I tried one of these, and they were ok. I’d say they tasted better than typical Chinese fast food.

The soup dumplings ($8.99) came with 6 pieces. I didn’t try one of these, but my partner didn’t like it that much and felt the skin was too thick and not cooked enough.

The braised beef noodle ($15.95) came with bok choy, an egg, and ramen like noodles. This was not a very memorable bowl of noodles. The broth was decent, but it pales in comparison both flavor and noodle profile to other Chinese/Taiwanese beef noodle shops around the city.

Final Verdict

If you’re on Roosevelt Island and have to get your Chinese noodle fix on, then definitely check out this restaurant. However, there are much better Chinese restaurants in each of the Queens and mainland Manhattan boroughs, so a special trip might not provide the best value.

Yelp Jabs

Truly worth coming out to RI to try this amazing food.

Keep in mind this Yelper is from New Jersey.

The noodles here are phenomenal. The soup and flavors were so delicious… This hidden gem on Roosevelt island gets a lot of hype despite not being on the main island.

Being how it’s the only restaurant on the island with noodles, can one be surprised how the hype is largely coming from people that either order delivery, visiting the island, or live relatively close? This Elitist might be padding their reviews.