Gene's Chinese Flatbread Cafe

Gene's Chinese Flatbread Cafe is a small, informal Chinese restaurant at 86 Bedford Street in Boston's Downtown Crossing area, in Massachusetts, United States. It specialises in the noodle-and-bread cooking of northwestern China, and its hand-pulled noodles, made by stretching dough by hand to order, are the signature. Flatbread sandwiches filled with lamb, cumin and other seasonings are the other core item, and the kitchen also serves dumplings, cold dishes and stir-fried noodles. The dining room is a modest, casual space with a counter feel, and the atmosphere is quick and unpretentious, aimed at diners looking for a filling meal at a low price. Dress is casual. Prices are among the lowest in the downtown area, with most dishes costing roughly ten to fifteen dollars. The restaurant has been a walk-in operation and has historically favoured cash, so visitors should confirm accepted payment methods. Reservations are not typically available. Lunch is a busy time because of the nearby office population and students, and lines can form, though turnover is fast. The location is a short walk from Chinatown, Boston Common and the Downtown Crossing transit hub, making it an easy meal between sightseeing and shopping. Spicy dishes use chilli and cumin, and diners who prefer milder food can ask the staff to adjust the heat. The restaurant is a good choice for travellers seeking inexpensive regional Chinese cooking rather than a formal sit-down meal.