A real “fly-style” Sichuan spot in Auckland — super oily and saucy, just like you’d expect. The good part is it’s definitely not pre-made; you can see the chefs cooking right in front of you. Downside? The exhaust fan roars like a jet engine. The huobao yaohua (spicy stir-fried pork kidney) instantly took me back to the authentic flavors of home. Not an everyday place, but fun to drop by once in a while for the experience.
E
Panda Noodle Express at 463 Dominion Road, Mount Eden, is one of those hidden gems that you might mistake for a small takeaway at first glance, but once you step inside you quickly realise why it’s always so busy. The place is constantly packed with people, which already tells you the food must be good – and it really is.
We came in on a busy evening and ordered a range of dishes. Everything we tried was full of flavour, spicy, and very authentic Sichuan style. From the noodles to the hot dishes, each plate had that bold, numbing spice and deep seasoning that Sichuan food is famous for. It felt just like eating in a proper restaurant in China.
The only downside is that the food did take about 30 minutes to arrive, but honestly, with how many people were in there, it was understandable. And once the food hit the table, it was worth the wait – fresh, piping hot, and incredibly tasty. The prices are also reasonable, especially considering the quality and portion sizes.
The restaurant itself is designed more like a casual takeaway spot, but don’t let that fool you. It’s clearly a favourite among locals, and I can see why. We enjoyed every single dish we ordered, and it left us wanting to come back and try more.
Highly recommended if you love authentic Sichuan flavours, generous portions, and don’t mind a bit of waiting during peak times. Definitely one of the best noodle places on Dominion Road!
Hao
Ordered : Mapo Tofu (vegan), Kung paw Chicken and rice ($2.5/ bowl)
Good quality and quantity for the price.
Mapo Tofu - Order max spice level. Good quantity spicy Sichuan pepper. Simple loved it with rice.
Kung paw chicken - more of peanuts than chicken but flavour taste. Loved peanuts as it had a sweet taste but no Sichuan pepper. Not too spicy as Mapo Tofu.
Brian DSouza
I have to say the authenticity of Sichuan cuisine, at least the process and the ingredients are pretty much close, and the chef and staff are speaking Sichuan dialect. I‘ll probably come to here as a daily canting
Order Online from Panda Noodle Exp - (MountEden) Asian & Chinese Cuisine * 463 Dominion Rd Mount Eden, Auckland 1024 * Online Menu * Takeaway * Secure Online Payments *
A real “fly-style” Sichuan spot in Auckland — super oily and saucy, just like you’d expect. The good part is it’s definitely not pre-made; you can see the chefs cooking right in front of you. Downside? The exhaust fan roars like a jet engine. The huobao yaohua (spicy stir-fried pork kidney) instantly took me back to the authentic flavors of home. Not an everyday place, but fun to drop by once in a while for the experience. 