China Restaurant Mongolei Norderstedt Marktplatz Norderstedt

China Restaurant Mongolei, located at Marktplatz 1 in Norderstedt, offers a diverse dining experience encompassing both traditional Chinese cuisine and a Mongolian barbecue buffet. This review provides a factual overview to help potential diners assess its suitability compared to other dining options in the area.

Location and Accessibility

Situated directly on the Marktplatz in Norderstedt, the restaurant benefits from a central and easily accessible location. Public transport options are plentiful, with numerous bus lines and the Norderstedt Mitte U-Bahn station within a short walking distance. Parking is available in the surrounding areas, though availability may vary, especially during peak hours. The restaurant's proximity to the Rathaus and other local businesses makes it a convenient choice for both lunch and dinner.

Ambiance and Décor

The interior of China Restaurant Mongolei reflects a typical Chinese restaurant aesthetic, featuring traditional decorations such as lanterns, artwork depicting landscapes and mythical creatures, and often, elements of red and gold in the color scheme. While some reviews mention that the décor might appear slightly dated to some, it contributes to the perceived authenticity of the dining experience. The restaurant usually offers ample seating, accommodating both smaller and larger groups. The overall atmosphere aims to be welcoming and family-friendly. The lighting is generally moderate, creating a relaxed environment. Noise levels can fluctuate depending on the number of diners, particularly during the buffet service.

Food and Menu

Chinese Cuisine

The a la carte menu features a range of classic Chinese dishes, including sweet and sour dishes (e.g., Sweet and Sour Pork, Chicken), stir-fried noodles and rice (e.g., Chow Mein, Fried Rice with various protein options), and dishes featuring different meats, seafood, and vegetables cooked in various sauces (e.g., Kung Pao Chicken, Szechuan Beef). Vegetarian options are also available, typically including tofu and vegetable-based dishes. The quality of the ingredients and the preparation methods are consistent with standard Chinese restaurants in the region. Some reviewers have noted that the dishes are adapted to suit local tastes, which might mean that they are less spicy or have a different flavor profile than authentic Chinese cuisine. Portion sizes are generally considered to be generous.

Mongolian Barbecue Buffet

The highlight for many visitors is the Mongolian barbecue buffet. This interactive dining experience allows guests to select their own raw ingredients – a wide variety of meats (beef, pork, chicken, lamb, and often seafood like shrimp and squid), vegetables (broccoli, mushrooms, peppers, onions, carrots, etc.), noodles, and sauces – and then have them stir-fried by the chefs on a large, round grill. This offers a high degree of customization and allows diners to create a dish tailored to their individual preferences. The freshness and quality of the ingredients in the buffet are key factors influencing the overall satisfaction. The availability of a diverse range of sauces, from mild to spicy, is also crucial. The buffet usually includes additional sides and appetizers, such as spring rolls, salads, and soups.

Drinks

The restaurant offers a standard selection of beverages, including soft drinks, juices, water, beer (both local and Chinese brands), and wine. Some reviews mention that the drink prices are reasonable. Chinese tea is also typically available.

Service

The service at China Restaurant Mongolei is generally described as efficient and friendly. Staff members are typically attentive to diners' needs, especially during the buffet service, ensuring that the buffet is adequately stocked. However, some reviews have mentioned that language barriers can occasionally pose a minor communication challenge. During peak hours, service can be slightly slower due to the high volume of customers. Orders are usually taken promptly, and food is served in a timely manner.

Pricing

The pricing at China Restaurant Mongolei is considered to be competitive, especially considering the portion sizes and the availability of the Mongolian barbecue buffet. The buffet is typically priced per person, with different rates for lunch and dinner. A la carte dishes are priced individually, with prices ranging from affordable to moderately priced, depending on the ingredients and complexity of the dish. Special deals and discounts may be available during certain periods or for large groups.

Hygiene and Cleanliness

The cleanliness of the restaurant is generally maintained to a satisfactory standard. Regular cleaning of tables and the buffet area is conducted. However, like any buffet-style restaurant, maintaining a high level of hygiene requires continuous effort. Some reviews have occasionally mentioned minor issues related to cleanliness, but these are not consistently reported.

Overall Impression and Comparison

China Restaurant Mongolei offers a solid dining experience, particularly for those interested in the Mongolian barbecue buffet. The central location, diverse menu, and reasonable prices make it a popular choice in Norderstedt. Compared to other Chinese restaurants in the area, it distinguishes itself through the buffet option and the interactive cooking experience. However, diners seeking more authentic or specialized Chinese cuisine might prefer other establishments. If you're looking for a filling and customizable meal in a familiar Chinese restaurant setting, China Restaurant Mongolei is worth considering. The strengths of the restaurant are the value for money through the buffet, the accessibility and the family friendly atmosphere. Potential weaknesses are the décor which might appear slightly outdated to some and the possibility of high noise levels during peak hours. The restaurant caters towards larger groups and families and provides a wide variety of options for every preference.

Summary

China Restaurant Mongolei, located on Marktplatz in Norderstedt, provides a combination of standard Chinese dishes and a popular Mongolian barbecue buffet. Key highlights include its central location, the customizable buffet, and the generally affordable pricing. Diners should be aware that the décor is traditional and that the restaurant can get busy. The service is usually efficient, and the cleanliness is generally maintained to a reasonable standard. The restaurant is suitable for families, groups, and individuals seeking a convenient and filling dining experience.