We’ve all grown up watching Hollywood movies in which Chinese takeouts are the thing. And let’s be honest, we’ve all secretly wanted that. Though most Chinese and Pan Asian restaurants in Lahore offer takeaways and deliveries, they rarely offer single servings which is why you usually have to think twice before placing an order.
Enter NOI-Stir Fry Kitchen – an Asian Stir Fry Kitchen which has been creating waves on social media and all the food groups. After reading some fabulous reviews on their dishes, I gave in to my temptation and placed an order. Considering their prices were also comparatively reasonable, I didn’t need any more convincing.
From the 16 gravy options they have, I tried their Crispy Honey Sirachi, Sweet and Sour Manchurian, Mixed Mushrooms Teriyaki and Hot BBQ Shashlik and am happy to report that not one of them let me down.
All dishes are single servings and come with a side of plain steamed Asian rice packaged in a paper carton. The food was delivered piping hot in small black plastic containers and it was good to see that their serving size was pretty good – it was more than enough for a person. The quantity of vegetables in each dish was also impressive and they were well-cooked.
My favourite from the options has to be the Mixed Mushrooms Teriyaki and Sweet and Sour Manchurian. Most of us Pakistanis are used to eating saucy Manchurian which tastes like ketchup mixed with chicken. But Noi’s Manchurian was neither saucy nor ketchupy – it was just like the name suggested – perfectly balanced between sweet and sour. The Mixed Mushroom Teriyaki also had a similar flavour but with a stronger Ginger flavour. The mushrooms in this dish were delicious – they were better than anything else and I would order this dish for the mushroom alone next time.
Meanwhile, the Crispy Honey Siracha was extremely spicy and literally puts your mouth on fire. What I didn’t like about it was how it was barely crispy and the taste of honey was hardly detectable.
Nonetheless, given the quantity, taste and price, Noi is highly recommended. Their kitchen is open 5:30 pm onwards till late night but they are usually sold out long before closing time. Best is to place your order ahead of time so that you don’t end up disappointed.
