I’ve been fortunate to travel extensively in Asia over the years. I visited China even when it was under Communist rule, explored the beautiful island of Hong Kong, and experienced both the serene villages and rambunctious cities of Japan. These opportunities arose from my work as a courier for electronics, computers, and nascent technology. It was a long time ago, but the experience was profoundly educational, teaching me the fundamental principles and diverse flavors of Eastern cuisine. I feel incredibly fortunate to have had this time as a global traveler. In that era, the world felt more united, and food truly served as a powerful unifier.
YouYu Noodle Bar and Restaurant is located on the Jersey Shore. Before their season heats up, I took a trip to see what was new and if there were any new offerings. I was told that they have a sushi-making robot, which piqued my interest. They also currently offer takeout appetizers and entrees from a kiosk located on the side of the two dining areas. The sushi bar and dining room still exist; however, if you want to grab-and-go, this is their latest option for diners in a hurry.
This restaurant, inside the Hard Rock Hotel AC, offers a unique dining experience. While many visitors and locals opt for the convenience of in-room dining—a preference catered to by their grab-and-go refrigerator and counter—I chose the traditionally decorated dining room. It reminded me of a visit to China, where the intricate Elm wood, friendly staff, and warm hospitality perfectly blend Eastern and Western influences. I particularly appreciated overhearing the waitstaff recognize many patrons from previous visits, embodying the spirit of “Jiãting,” which means “family” in Chinese. This family-style restaurant features large tables that seat upwards of 10, with smaller, crimson red booths also available for more intimate parties.
Chef Eddie Fong masterfully crafts both the in-house and take-away menus, which are essentially mirror images of culinary excellence. I recently had the distinct pleasure of meeting Jeff Braun, the Director of Culinary Operations. He was instrumental in guiding my selections, and despite my request for modest portions, my table soon boasted an abundance of delicious plates. They lined up like a friendly dragon parade, each dish a delightful float in a culinary procession. What follows are my top recommendations.
Start your hunger engines with the Chicken with Pine Nuts Wrap! This dish was highly recommended by their very professional and attentive server. The fresh lettuce, generous amount of poultry, and my favorite tree nut make this a celebratory dish, offering a delightful combination of crunch, flavor, and savory notes. As I’ve mentioned before, I conduct these reviews solo, without a dinner partner. I must say, this starter is so substantial it could easily feed a family of four. I also learned that the biggest producers of pine nuts are China, Russia, and North Korea, with California also being a significant contributor.
The kebab has its roots in Persia. In Southeast Asia, however, a similar yet more diminutive culinary tradition emerged: The Satay. Originating in countries such as Brunei, Malaysia, the Philippines, Singapore, and Thailand, this iconic appetizer features marinated poultry and is typically served with a rich peanut sauce. It’s a wonderful, shareable dish that evokes its vibrant history, making it an ideal way to kick off a meal with friends and family, with portion sizes that can be adjusted for your party.
My current survival job has introduced me to many members of the younger generation who adhere to various dietary philosophies: vegan, vegetarian, anti-MSG, and allergy-centric. Some, I’ve observed, appear misguided about nutrition and are very particular about their fruits, nuts, and proteins. By nature, humans are born as omnivores—the proof is in our teeth. While YouYu offers a Korean Style Tofu Soup, if you, like me, favor the historic carnivore path, I highly recommend their succulent L.A. Kalbi Beef Short Ribs, served with kimchi, pickled daikon, and gochujang—a savory, red chili paste.
My primary motivation for visiting YouYu was the intriguing rumor of a sushi-making robot. This innovative concept immediately captured my attention, making the journey from NYC to the shore seem entirely worthwhile. Unfortunately, upon inquiring with my waitress, restaurant management, and even the hotel concierge, I was disappointed to find no one had any knowledge of such a device. It’s possible the robot is still in a developmental phase. Should this sushi robot ever be unveiled, I would gladly make another trip to Atlantic City specifically to witness and report on it.
While takeout undoubtedly marks our era, I believe a meal truly flourishes when shared in person, surrounded by friends and family. My childhood unfolded long before the culinary landscape was shaped by the likes of culinary wizards such as Ming Tsai, Ching-He Huang, and David Chang, or the advent of the Food Network. This underscores our collective responsibility to gather and celebrate the profound honor of dining together. It matters not if the table holds a humble loaf of bread, a delicate dumpling, or a grand banquet; the core remains the same: delicious food and Jiãting—the essence of home and family.
YouYu Noodle Bar and Restaurant
1000 Boardwalk,
Atlantic City, NJ
08401
609-449-1000
Photos and Graphics: P. K. Greenfield
