I first stumbled across Hot Wok Xpress when they were adding the finishing touches to the interior, before officially opening to the public, about three years ago. It seemed as though the entire family were there, (all four generations of them), as well as a fair few friends as well. Some of the men were tweaking this, and straightening that, whilst at least three others were in the kitchen wafting woks over huge flames, and cooking up a storm. The smell that emanated from this bijou eatery was heavenly. Being of a nosey disposition, (and more than a little hungry), I ventured in to see if there was any food for sale. There wasn't! But what there was, was a warm welcome and an invitation to sample the various dishes that were being prepared... how could I decline?
In one of my more cynical moods I could have mistaken their generosity as an effective PR exercise, (I have been a regular customer ever since), but I believe that the reality, in this case, was that that all of them were so hyped by hard work and expectation that they would have struggled to suppress their eagerness to get the show on the road for a single second longer. The moment I lifted a morsel of food to my mouth everyone's eye set their gaze in my direction, studying me to see my reaction. Their relief was palpable when my chomping mouth managed to support a smile and my head nodded appreciatively, with eyes that said 'yep, this is amazing'. Laughter ensued as they all glanced at each other, and some patted others on the back. I felt honoured to witness it all.
I'm glad to say that the standards have been maintained, and that they're still as passionate about what they are doing to this day. All of the ingredients are really fresh, and the preparation of food is mesmerizing to watch. The kitchen is completely open, with only a serving counter dividing it from the small eating area, which is Spartan, but serviceable. It's possible to squeeze about 20 people into the coach seating arrangement, but as most of the food is sold for delivery or take-away, this is ample.
Prices are incredibly reasonable, making Hot Wok Xpress well worth a visit. read more