+1 604-231-8141
Located in the heart of Richmond, BC, Max Noodle House is a standout destination for aficionados of authentic Cantonese cuisine. This restaurant delivers a masterclass in traditional flavors, specializing in the much-loved wonton noodles that have earned it a reputation as one of the most genuine wonton noodle houses not just in Canada, but potentially across North America.
Stepping into Max Noodle House, you're greeted with an unpretentious yet inviting atmosphere that echoes the simplicity and sincerity of classic Hong Kong-style dining. The focus here is not on flash but on delivering time-honored dishes crafted with precision and care. The menu offers a rich variety of Cantonese favorites, enticing both newcomers and aficionados alike.
The crown jewel for many diners is undoubtedly the Wonton & Beef Brisket Noodle Soup. Each wonton is a delicate parcel, perfectly wrapped and bursting with flavor, striking an exquisite balance between tender pork or shrimp filling and thin, springy noodles that offer just the right bite—texturally reminiscent of authentic Hong Kong fare. The broth is clear and fragrant, a testament to slow, patient simmering. Meanwhile, the beef brisket, tender and richly savory, complements the noodle soup well, though some diners note a slight opportunity for enhancement in its seasoning.
Beyond noodles, Max Noodle House shines with its range of appetizing small plates and deep-fried specialties. The Taro & Pork Spring Roll delivers a perfect crispy exterior with a savory, hearty filling, while the Deep Fried Chicken Wings and Deep Fried Chicken Knee provide irresistibly crunchy textures and bold flavors. For those craving traditional claypot rice, the Black Bean Sauce Rice Clay Pot and 北菇滑雞飯 (Mushroom & Chicken Claypot Rice) are satisfyingly comforting, imbued with rich umami and tender morsels.
Other notable dishes such as Preserved Egg & Jelly Fish and Braised Pork Feet highlight the restaurant’s commitment to diversity in classic Cantonese tastes, offering adventurous palates a chance to dive into authentic specialty items. The Braised Beef Brisket Tendon Noodle Soup is another comforting staple, showcasing tender tendon that melts beautifully in your mouth alongside the springy noodles.
For a warm, soothing finish or for those seeking a wholesome meal beyond noodles, the Chinese Sausages & Chicken on Rice and 及第粥 (Special Congee) are exceptional choices, offering warmth and depth in every spoonful. The congee here is notably soft and flavorful, a perfect reprieve on cooler days.
While Max Noodle House excels in culinary authenticity, some diners note that portion sizes are modest compared to North American expectations—closely mirroring traditional Cantonese dining culture, which favors smaller, more refined servings. Pricing is reflective of the quality and authenticity, though a few patrons suggest minor adjustments could make the experience feel even more accessible.
The service is efficient and unembellished, matching the restaurant’s no-nonsense approach to food. Reviewers have mentioned a sometimes “cold” demeanor, but many appreciate that the focus remains on culinary execution rather than theatrical hospitality. Do note, Max Noodle House operates on a cash-only basis and parking can be limited due to the mall’s popularity.
In summary, Max Noodle House stands as a beacon for authentic Cantonese food lovers craving a genuine taste of Hong Kong-style wonton noodles and more. Its dedication to precision, tradition, and robust flavors makes it a must-visit spot that, while humble in presentation, leaves a deeply satisfying impression that lingers far beyond the last bite.
Contact & Location: 8291 Alexandra Rd, Richmond, BC V6X 3A9, Canada | Phone: +1 604-231-8141
Max Noodle in Richmond is easily the most authentic wonton noodle house in Canada, maybe even North America. The wontons are solid five stars, perfectly made and full of flavour. The noodles have that true springy bite that is hard to find outside Hong Kong. The beef brisket is a touch underwhelming, good but missing something, so closer to four stars. Service is often called cold but I found it warm among regulars, more like a neighbourhood club than a restaurant.
I came with my grandmother and we ordered more than the average for two people. The beef brisket and tendon were my favourite. It had a very savoury taste, not being too salty and it came apart easily. The shrimp wontons weren’t my favourite, but they were small and tender. My grandmother ordered rice noodles with pork and mushroom wontons and that tasted much better in my opinion. The stewed pork hock was quite tender and held a gelatinous texture. The dace fish balls were soft and flavourful especially when you dip it in the soy sauce green onion and oil dish. The beef liver was alright, I’m usually not a fan of the metallic taste, but my grandmother said it was really good. The claypot rice were decent, nothing stood out and probably wouldn’t order it again. However, the rice on one claypot was more scorched and crunchy than the other. The dishes are more for individual portion sizes, which is great for trying more foods and not taking so much home. It is a CASH only restaurant and quite the hole in the wall that’s been around for ages. The service is great if you know Cantonese, otherwise be expected to wait awhile. The food came out quickly, and steamy hot. The servers answered quickly to orders in Chinese but forgot my English requests of iced water. We went around closing time, so it was relatively busy and it quickly died down when it was last call. I will definitely come back knowing when I crave some beef brisket and tendon noodle soup.
Max Noodle House serves one of the most authentic bowls of Cantonese wonton noodles in North America. A simple dish, yes, but executed with such precision and quiet pride that it puts many more expensive establishments to shame. Some reviews are unintentionally hilarious. One self-proclaimed foodie lamented the size of the wontons, as though quantity were the defining trait of quality. Traditional wontons are meant to be small. Each one is a refined parcel of flavour, not a grotesque meatball in disguise. Wonton noodles, historically, are a light street food, not a lumberjack’s brunch. Complaining about portion size is like criticising espresso for not coming in a soup bowl. Others grumble about the price and suggest getting sushi instead. Presumably, they mean the North American kind, smothered in mayonnaise and confusion. True craftsmanship in food costs money, especially when it’s done right. The broth here is clear and rich, the noodles perfectly al dente, the wontons silky and fragrant. There’s skill involved, and it shows. Most patrons are older Hong Kong locals. The staff know many by name. Service is warm, unhurried, and genuine. There is no pretence. Just good food made by people who know exactly what they’re doing. Max Noodle House does not pander. It preserves. It serves a dish the way it should be served, without compromise. In a world of shortcuts and sriracha-laced chaos, that’s worth celebrating.
As a Cantonese, the noodle taste good. The wonton is legit. Generally the food is decent and the service is nice. The portion size is way too small for the price though. The portion size in Canton is not big, so I appreciate small portion size. I would have loved it more if the price is $2-3 less, then everything would be perfect.
We enjoyed some traditional wonton noodles for dinner. The beef brisket noodles are good too. We also had the congee that was soft and tasty. Everything is served in the traditional smaller bowls, but it should still be enough per person. Note that this is cash only. Parking can get quite busy because there are a number of restaurants in this mall. There are a few spots if you proceed through the alley way on the left of the restaurant.
This spot exemplifies so much of what we love about Richmond’s Asian restaurant scene. No fancy menu “bells and whistles”; no splashy, expensive decor; brisk service; and, well prepared, tasty food at a fair price. Oh, and note: it’s a cash only establishment so be prepared. We enjoyed: Taro and Pork Spring Rolls; Chinese Doughnut; Lo-Mein with Shredded Pork in Spicy Brown Sauce (#22) and, Braised Beef Brisket/Tendon & Wuntun Noodle Soup (#3). Tge spring rolls were crispy and only a wee bit oily. The Chinese doughnut was crispy, yummy and perfect for broth dipping. The Lo-Mei Noodles with Shredded Pork was very nice, with perfectly al dente noodles and a nice, spicy oil. The beef brisket/tendon was a highlight, mainly because of the melt-in-your-mouth tendon - some of the best we’ve had. Total charge: $52.00 (tax & tip included). Recommended.
This is a cash only Chinese noodle house featuring their wontons and broth. Portion is small for the price. Wontons are good with bouncy prawns inside. Broth is very flavorful.