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Lan Noodle
Master Critic Reviews (2 Lists)
Lan Noodle
8.0
Lan Noodle is a modern fast-casual Chinese shop specializing in hand-pulled Lanzhou-style noodles, backed by a focused dumpling program that includes xiao long bao and pan-fried pork dumplings. It works as much for a solo soup-and-dumpling stop as it does for small groups sharing plates.
Must-Try Dishes:
Signature Lan Beef Noodle Soup, Pork Xiao Long Bao, Pork Pan-Fried Dumplings
Scores:
Value: 8.1
Service: 7.9
Consistency: 7.7
Food Quality: 8.8
Atmosphere: 6.7
Cultural Relevance: 7
What makes it special: Hand-pulled noodle shop with legit soup dumplings in 90046.
Who should go: Dumpling and noodle fans chasing chewy handmade texture.
When to visit: Lunch or early dinner before peak delivery rush.
What to order: Lan beef noodle soup, xiao long bao, pan-fried dumplings.
Insider tip: Customize your noodle shape and width, then add dumplings on the side.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Garage parking is available at the West Hollywood Gateway with validated rates; street parking on La Brea fills quickly during meal peaks.
Dress code: Casual and comfortable; guests range from gym attire to relaxed streetwear.
Noise level: Moderate bustle from the open kitchen and takeout orders, but still easy to hold a conversation.
Weekend wait: 10–20 minutes during peak hours, especially if multiple to-go orders queue up.
Weekday lunch: Typically no wait, with fast turnover.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: A few solid options including vegetable noodles and veggie dumplings.
Vegan options: Limited; broths and dumplings often contain animal products, though stir-fried vegetable dishes may work.
Gluten-free options: Minimal options; hand-pulled noodles and dumplings are wheat-based with no GF substitutes.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Better suited for a casual meetup or low-key hang than a romantic first date; the fast-casual setting and open kitchen energy lean informal.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes—reservations aren’t needed. Seating is first-come, first-served, and turnover is quick due to the counter-service model.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes for older kids who enjoy noodles and dumplings; space is tight for strollers and there are no dedicated kid amenities.
Best For
Better for: Chewy hand-pulled noodles and quick-service dumplings that beat nearby fast-casual noodle shops in texture and speed.
Skip if: You want traditional dim sum carts, a leisurely sit-down meal, or gluten-free dumpling options.
Lan Noodle
8.6
Lan Noodle specializes in hand-pulled Chinese noodle soups and dry bowls in a compact counter-service space just off Santa Monica and La Brea. Bowls built around bouncy noodles, rich broths, and chili oil make it the go-to Chinese noodle stop in this stretch of West Hollywood.
Must-Try Dishes:
Signature Lanzhou Beef Noodle Soup, Chongqing Spicy Noodles, Tomato Brisket Noodle Soup
Scores:
Value: 8.4
Service: 7.4
Consistency: 8.8
Food Quality: 9.2
Atmosphere: 7.1
Cultural Relevance: 8.1
What makes it special: Hand-pulled Chinese noodle soups with real depth in a casual strip-mall setting.
Who should go: Noodle fans craving brothier, regional-leaning Chinese bowls.
When to visit: Lunch or early dinner to avoid peak delivery rush.
What to order: Signature beef noodle soup, Chongqing spicy noodles, tomato brisket bowl.
Insider tip: Customize heat with house chili oil—start light, then dial it up.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Metered street parking along Santa Monica Blvd and La Brea; expect limited availability during peak meal hours. Small adjacent side streets offer additional spots but can fill quickly.
Dress code: Completely casual—hoodies, tees, and everyday wear are the norm.
Noise level: Moderate during rushes due to the small interior, but still workable for conversation.
Weekend wait: 10–20 minutes depending on delivery volume; seating is limited.
Weekday lunch: Usually no wait aside from quick ordering lines.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes—several bowls can be made vegetarian, such as tomato-based or vegetable noodle options.
Vegan options: Limited—ask for vegetable broth and no egg; customization is possible but not extensive.
Gluten-free options: Minimal—hand-pulled wheat noodles are the core; no dedicated gluten-free noodle option.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Only if both people love casual noodle shops—space is tight and the vibe is more functional than romantic.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes—it's entirely walk-in, with fast turnover. Expect a short wait at peak meal times.
Is it kid-friendly? Generally yes for older kids who enjoy noodle soups; the hot broth and limited seating may be less ideal for toddlers.
Best For
Better for: Freshly pulled noodles, deep broths, fast service, and strong value in an area with few authentic Chinese options.
Skip if: You want a full-service Chinese restaurant, large group seating, or gluten-free noodle options.