We have yet another place in Koramangala known its service, quantity of food and good quality of noodles - Chinese restaurant China Pearl in Koramangala. “China Pearl” is a concept restaurant of Mr. Tony Lu who used to run the Lonely Planet suggested “Abba Chinese Banquet”. Chinese food in India cannot be compared to what one would expect in Shandong, Sichuan, Guangdong, Fujian, Jiangsu, Zhejiang or Hunan. However there are some exceptions in Bombay like Lings Pavilion and China Garden (look for it, there’s only one).
Authentic Chinese food is known for its for its smell, taste, appearance and texture. China Pearl satisfies the appearance and texture criteria. The food is really good although it has deviated from the bland/ mildly spiced authentic Chinese taste which might not appeal to the Indians.
Its a place where one can relax, have some soft drinks, juices and order filling portions of Dragon Chopsuey (130 bucks), Chinese Chopsuey (130 bucks, ’crispy’ recommended) or Chicken Chowmein (110 bucks) along with some momos (dumplings). One dish is enough for two with average appetite. Do try the Drunken Chicken and Drunken Fish (ask for it) these dishes are cooked in home-made Chinese rice wine. I have been here on several occasions and not once have I complained. The ’right’ dishes are recommended as - the spices do not overpower, yet subtle enough to meet the tastes buds of those dining tickle for a long time. A decent meal for two would not exceed 400 bucks unless you indulge.
Vegetarian Chinese is something one can expect only in India. It’s like McDonalds serving God-Forbidden veg burgers for the ’yucky’ Indian taste. The veg here is impressive as my friends who have it say it tastes really good.
The restaurant now has some good seating arrangement upstaris to manage the crowd on weekends. The next time you have those crackling chopsueys - remember me ;.-)