Congee Noodle House is a reliable spot to get cheap, fast eats. I haven’t been here in yonks, but it’s nice to know its still here. Congee Noodle House is one of the restaurants you can count on to be open late in the Broadway and Main area. So here we are. It’s late, and I’m a bit nibbly.

Soy Pork Hock with Noodle ($7.25)

Pork hocks. This is another item where one needs to enjoy cartilage and gelatinous things of that nature. I like the noodles. I can easily eat the noodles on their own; the broth is served on the side. This plate also contributes to my daily source of vegetable matter. Yes, it’s those greens you see on the side.

Barbeque Duck Congee ($5.75)

How can one go to the Congee Noodle House and not order congee? I’ve always liked their congee. It’s always very smooth and flavourful. Whenever I order a noodle or congee that contains BBQ duck, often the restaurant will fill it with boney duck pieces. I totally expected this, so it is no surprise. Yes, I am left gnawing on some back pieces.

Dear Chinese Restaurants that serve BBQ Duck in Noodles or Congee,
Is it necessary to pull this fast-one every time?

Sweet Deep Fried Dough ($1.75)

I actually ordered the regular salted version as well, but they gave us two orders of the sweet version. Oh well, I like both styles. The fried bread comes out hot and soft. I’m relieved to find that the slightly sweet doughnut is not oily either.

Pan Fried White Minnows with Salt & Chili ($9.00)

These are so fun to eat. They do not really taste like fish. In fact, the dish is mostly texture rather than taste. They remind me of Hickory Sticks or some kind of salty, spicy chip. The fish are great with my congee. The crispy minnows give a little salt and a crunch to my bowl of rice gruel.

Pork Intestines ($9.00)

Served on a bed of pineapples, these morsels are fried as well. Whoa, I just realized that there are three fried dishes on the table. That’s a bit much, no? The crispy entrails prove to be too much for DL. I understand. I’ve had pork innards in various forms since I was just a wee one, so it’s no biggie for me. Yes, there is a slight “aroma” that lingers briefly at the back of the nose and throat. Otherwise it’s a crunchy and chewy snack.

The food at Congee Noodle House isn’t going to blow your mind. It’s a diner. The service is fast and typical. But if you want some well prepared basics like congee or noodles this is a safe place to get it. Bring some cash, because they don't take cards.

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