The Place The most hyped-up beef noodles place in Singapore right now is Niu Dian Beef Noodles, a Michelin Bib Gourmand awardee from Taiwan. There is just one branch in Ximending, Taipei, Taiwan, and Niu Dian Beef Noodles has opened in Singapore at VIIO @ Balestier this month to much fanfare on its opening day. The space of the restaurant in Balestier is causal and can accommodate 55 diners. 

The Food Taiwanese love their beef noodles and Niu Dian became a favourite for the locals in Taiwan due to their handmade noodles that are chewy in texture, and consommé like broth made from 24 hours of brewing with a variety of quality beef bone parts, mirepoix and curated blend of herbs for an unforgettable taste. 

The beef parts here are from Australia and all proprietary sauces and marinades are imported from Taiwan to ensure consistency in flavour across Niu Dian’s outlets. Signatures include the Combination Specialty Beef Noodles, Premium Braised Combination Beef Noodles and Spicy Pepper Combination Specialty Beef Noodles.  

I had the Premium Braised Combination Beef Noodles (Boneless Rib Cut + Tendon + Tripe + Golden Coin) (S$28.90) where this dish is served in three separate components with three-steps instructions to enjoy the Braised Beef Noodles. 

Have a sip of the original broth first, then add the braised sauce into the soup according to preference. Place a portion of noodles in a small bowl and stir in a small amount of braised sauce. Add preserved vegetables to the noodles, mix well and enjoy! 

The original broth itself is very light in flavour, but delicious. 

I also tried the Combination Specialty Beef Noodles (Boneless Rib Cut + Tendon + Tripe + Golden Coin) (S$19.90) where this signature bowl includes boneless beef rib fingers, golden coin, tripe and tendon. The braised broth here is rich in flavour, and the beef cuts are relatively tender. The texture of the tendon itself is good for me, as it is soft and chewy without being too mushy. 

Side dishes are also available such as the Braised Beancurd (S$3.90) and Cold King Oyster Mushroom (S$4.90). 

For drinks, there is a collaboration with homegrown bubble tea brand, Palace Tea, where signature drinks such as the Milk Tea and Original Tea selections are available. 

Rants The tables are quite close to one another which makes it a tad cramped. 

Will I Return Again? If you are in vicinity, Niu Dian Beef Noodles is worth trying for a good bowl of beef noodles if you are looking for a casual meal, even though the prices are relatively steep. 

This was an invited tasting, though all opinions expressed are our own.

TheRantingPanda says:
Taste bud: 4/5
Hole in the pocket: 4/5
Ambience: 3/5
Overall Experience: 4/5

Niu Dian Beef Noodles 
VIIO @ Balestier 
#01-01/02 VIIO @ Balestier 
520 Balestier Road 
Singapore 329853 

Opening Hours 
Sunday to Thursday: 11am to 9.30pm (last order at 9pm) 
Friday to Saturday: 11am-10pm (last order at 9.30pm) 

Ranted by The Ranter