Zhang Lao Qiang Fangcheng Qiangguo Huimian (Shenglong Plaza)

Zhang Lao Qiang Fangcheng Qiangguo Huimian (张老炝方城炝锅烩面) is a noodle restaurant with a branch in Shenglong Plaza (升龙广场) in Zhengzhou, the capital of Henan province in central China. The exact unit inside the plaza should be confirmed on Ctrip or Amap. The restaurant serves qiangguo huimian (炝锅烩面), a variant of Henan's signature huimian noodle soup in the style associated with Fangcheng County in southern Henan. In the qiangguo method, aromatics such as scallion, ginger, garlic and spices are stir-fried in the wok first, and the broth and noodles are then added, giving the bowl a more pronounced, savoury, slightly smoky flavour than the milkier mutton-bone versions found in Erqi District. The noodles are the same wide, hand-pulled wheat noodles that define huimian, cooked until soft with a springy bite, and served with lamb or other toppings, vegetables and vermicelli depending on the version ordered. The qiangguo huimian is the signature dish and a good choice for visitors who have already tried the classic version and want to see how the recipe varies across the province. Because the branch is inside a shopping plaza, the setting is cleaner and more polished than a street shop, with a tidy dining room, clear menus, table service and a moderate noise level, and the crowd is a mix of shoppers, families and office workers. Dress is casual and there is no notable beverage programme beyond tea, soft drinks and beer. Reservations are not normally required, and the venue is walk-in, though weekend lunch and dinner can be busy in the mall. Prices are about ¥25-40 (roughly $3.70-6) per person, slightly higher than a street noodle shop. Opening hours follow the mall's schedule and should be verified before visiting, and diners should check the floor and unit number through the mall directory or a map app. It suits travellers who prefer air conditioning and a seated meal in summer or winter. Mutton-based toppings mean the dish is not suitable for vegetarians, although visitors can ask staff about alternatives.