Yumchi has a simple philosophy- want Chinese, eat Chinese, love Chinese. While there are only three locations around London, I was lucky enough to live one train stop away from the Kilburn store and it was a regular haunt on Sunday nights in our house. During those long wet winter months though, it was free home delivery.
Singapore noodles. Photo: David (wikimedia commons)
Opposed to larger Chinese restaurants, Yumchi is all about a cheap, quick and simple meal served in a box which they've aptly titled a "Yumbox". Rather than overwhelming you with a lengthy menu of choices, you make your selection in three simple steps.
First you choose your base carbohydrate (£2.79)- egg fried rice, chow mein (thick egg noodles), Singapore noodles (thin rice noodles) or ho fun (flat noodles), all seasoned and with a few vegetables. Next, you choose which protein (80p-£2.20), extras (40-50p) and vegetables (20-50p) you want to add to your box. The protein choices include chicken, beef, pork, duck, prawn or tofu, the extras are cashew nuts or chilli and the vegetables are baby or sweet corn, pineapple, peas, mushroom or cucumber. The final decision is which sauce (free), and there are eleven flavours including sweet and sour, salt and chilli or black bean.
Fried Rice. Photo: Haynes, C (wikimedia commons)
Unlike ordering a pizza and wanting to add extra toppings which can really add up, it is so easy to read Yumchi's menu that you can be as extravagant or simple as you like, without breaking the bank. With a meal this easy, it's the perfect place to bring a group or fussy kids. They also offer catering for business lunches or parties. Next time you need a quick, comforting and moderately healthy meal, visit Yumchi and enjoy a Yumbox.
