Sometimes I low key wish I lived in Rockville because there are so many dope AF spots in the area. For today’s post, I’m featuring the deliciousness that is A&J. Located at 1319 Rockville Pike, this gem of a restaurant’s easy to overlook. Their Northern style dim sum’s absolutely worth the crazy DMV traffic though. I’d happily sit through said madness to enjoy their housemade noodz and dumplings.
They’ve been around since 1996, and they’re known for their amaaaaazing Chinese food. My manfriend’s never been so I obviously had to take him on his day off. Everything’s crazy affordable too so if you’re looking to get mad bang for your buck, that’s yet another reason to make the trip.
For me, these 3 dishes are always a must, no ifs, ands or buts: their Hong Shao Niu Ro Main (spicy beef noodle soup, Szechuan style), their Guo Tie (pan fried pork dumplings), and their Niu Ri Juan Bing (peking beef wrap).
Pro tip, when they ask you if you want thin or wide noodles, ALWAYS get the latter. The thin’s fine, but the wide noodz are made in house and taste so much better, like there’s no comparison. Their beef noodle soup has a rich beautiful broth, and it’s has some nice heat to it. I’m a psycho when it comes to spice so I like to add in lots of extra chili oil, but it should be sufficiently hot for most.
They’re famous for their dumplings as well, and I honestly think they have some of the best pork dumplings in the area. The filling’s nice and flavorful, and I love the texture of the wrapper. It’s chewy in the best way possible! I like to dip mine in a soy sauce, chili oil, vinegar blend, but it tastes great plain, too.
As for the peking wrap, that’s probably my least favorite item of the 3, but it’s still a must IMO. It’s hearty, and it kind of reminds me of peking duck wraps…minus the amazing crispy skin but still scrumptious nonetheless.
A few things to add: parking’s free and easy – there’s a large lot in front of the restaurant. This is a cash only establishment, but they started taking venmo – I’m guessing due to the pandemic – so that’s an option as well. And lastly, they’re located right next to Duck Donuts so head over to end your meal with a pipin’ hot donut if you have room!
Alright friends, I hope you enjoyed my latest food post! For more on delish eats, make sure to check out this tab and stay tuned for more content coming your way soon. Sending y’all big e-hugs! Until next time.
