Life is Noodiful

If food is your mein hobby, it’s time to say ramen — Banh-Sen Noodle Bar is opening on the corner of West Pennsylvania Avenue and Bennett Street in DTSP.

“This is our fourth place, and it’s still the same feeling, happy, but nervous at the same time,” says James Lam, who co-owns the restaurant with his wife Keena. “It’s all kinds of emotions, but mainly we’re excited to get this type of food here.”

In addition to noodles, you’ll find Chicken Larb, steamed dumplings, red barbecue pork and more. Alcohol will be on the menu soon, but until then you can enjoy a whole, fresh coconut with a festive umbrella.

James recommends the Khao Piak Sen, a Laotian rice soup that he calls a “happy noodle dish” for anyone feeling in need of a pick-me-up. Keena’s favorite is the Tom Yum Noodle Soup with shrimp, cilantro and just a bit of spice.

• Banh-Sen opens to the public from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. Friday, May 12 for a “pre grand opening.” For updates and more food photos, follow Banh-Sen Noodle Bar on Instagram or Facebook.
• The Lams also own The Block on Pennsylvania Avenue, where you’ll find the combined menus of their previous ventures, Steves TK Pizza and Bambu Boba Café.