Crystal Chimney – Another Chinese Gem

Soong Tong Mixed Gravy Noodles

I have passed by this restaurant hundreds of time (or maybe thousands), but never tried their food till today. Whenever I was around and craved for some Chinese food, either it was Chin Wah (Chung Wah till college days) or, if I had time, the eating houses of Old China Town. But today was different. We were hungry (read really hungry) and were short of cash (thanks to the demonetization of 500 and 1000 currency notes). We were looking for a Chinese restaurant nearby which will accept cards. Crystal Chimney was the first in the list to confirm over phone that they accept cards. Two hungry stomachs were saved!

The board on the footpath opposite E Mall

Located opposite the E Mall and few doors away from Anand, Crystal Chimney is a blink and you miss place. The kitchen and takeaway counter is on the ground floor while the AC restaurant on the first. The spiral staircase might challenge some, like the elderly people or if you are horizontally gifted. Also the dining space is very small and can accommodate 18 people only. Those were the only negatives we found here.

The spiral staircase

The ambiance here is basic and comfortable. Service was fast and the gentleman serving us was very friendly. They have a real long menu. There were, for example, 5-6 types of gravy noodles only.

Lee Fu Fish

The fat and juicy fish pieces

We started with Lee Fu Fish (dry), which was fish in a green sauce. It tasted good. A bit salty with a hint of lemon. The fish pieces were chunky and juicy. We had it as a starter and really liked it. If you love experimenting with new dishes and taste, go for it.

Soong Tong Mixed Gravy Noodles

For mains our fist order was a Soong Tong Mixed Gravy Noodles. It was medium spicy and the sauce had prominent flavours of coriander and lemon. The amount was good and more than enough for a single person with normal appetite. There were good amount of prawns and the sizes were good too. The chicken pieces were bit disappointing though. Cut as cubes, the pieces were a bit dry. It would have been better if they were made thinner and smaller. The overall taste of the dish was great though. We simply loved it. Also you won’t need any side along with this dish as the gravy was rich and spicy.

The huge serving of Mixed Szechwan Rice

Our next order was a Mixed Szechwan Rice. Again the quantity was huge with good number of big and juicy prawns. The rice was spicy and tasty. We didn’t need any side for this dish too. A plate of noodles and half of this rice was enough for us two and we asked them to pack the rest. The total bill along with two bottles of Thums Up came up to 710 (All prices in menu are inclusive of VAT). And both of us were happy after a satisfying lunch. Flavourful food, pocket friendly menu, comfortable seating and a new restaurant added to our favourites list, all thanks to the demonetization and lack of hard cash. We loved this place and would be returning soon to try other items. We think you should too 🙂