Asian Noodle Bar

I left Burtonsville, MD, for Corrales, New Mexico, in June 2008. What I miss a lot from there is Singapore Noodles served at Noodle King in Colesville, MD. See my review of Noodle King on Urbanspoon. I wrote, “I have yet to find Singapore Noodles anywhere in the Albuquerque area. If I do, chances are that they will be a poor imitation of Noodle King’s.”

Steeled with this defensive attitude, I sashayed into the Asian Noodle Bar yesterday with visiting sister for a late lunch. For this visit, I had prepared myself with an extensive Google search for Singapore Noodles Albuquerque. I found this place and it had “Singapore Curry” on the menu, which described the dish as “22. Singapore Curry. (Vermicelli noodles, carrots, potatoes in coconut red curry broth).” I said to myself, “Self, this ain’t the Singapore Noodles of my quest.” and I expected to be disappointed.

Mimy, the delightful young Laos-born owner, came to the table sensing my hesitation, and we talked about the differences between her Singapore Curry and my stir-fried Grail. She convinced me to try her version, and even offered to toss in some extra chicken and extra basil.

Singapore Curry. Photo courtesy of Gil Garduño.

She soon placed the dish before me. The aroma was exquisite, and the first spoonful exploded in my mouth with a perfect blend of all the tastes that I had expected — and more. This was NOT my beloved stir-fried noodle dish, but an equally excellent soup that Mimy had invented for her restaurant. This dish is heavenly — I can still hear the chorus of angels.

Perhaps I will never again find the equivalent of Noodle King’s Singapore Noodles, but I learned from Mimy that it just doesn’t matter. Don’t get hung up on the past. Great food is great food wherever it is served and whatever it is called. Thanks for the lesson, Mimy.

Visiting sister had Pad Thai, and declared it to be the best that she has ever had anywhere, and she’s been around the block more than a few times.

Mimy sat at our table with us for about a half-hour swapping stories and dreams. Asian Noodle Bar IS one of her dreams come true. I hope to work my way through the menu. You should, too. Tell her that I sent you.