Monday

Closed

Tuesday

11:30 am - 3 pm, 5 pm - 8 pm

Wednesday

11:30 am - 3 pm, 5 pm - 8 pm

Thursday

11:30 am - 3 pm, 5 pm - 8 pm

Friday

11:30 am - 3 pm, 5 pm - 8 pm

Saturday

11:30 am - 3 pm, 5 pm - 8 pm

Sunday

Closed

About

Mala Express delivers a bold exploration of Szechuan culinary traditions through a menu defined by the numbing heat of peppercorns and aromatic chili oils. The kitchen focuses on the art of authentic dumpling preparation, offering thin, translucent skins wrapped around seasoned fillings that release savory juices upon the first bite. Signature soups anchor the menu, featuring complex broths infused with layers of spice and fresh herbs designed to invigorate the palate. Each dish prioritizes the balance of piquant, salty, and numbing flavors characteristic of regional Chinese cooking techniques. The dining space emphasizes functional simplicity, allowing the intense profiles of the food to serve as the primary experience for those seeking genuine spice-forward cuisine. This establishment remains a consistent destination for enthusiasts who prioritize deep, resonant flavor profiles over elaborate presentation or superfluous service rituals.

Reviews for Mala Express

Food

Service

on Google4.6 (100+)

*as of 2026-09-01

4.5 105 ratings

5★

73%

4★

14%

3★

2★

1★

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Display All spicy(27) noodle(20) soup(11) authentic(7) wonton(7) spice(6) chinese(5) wonton soup(4) dishes(4) mala(4) mild(4) flavor(4)

Review Summary

Mala Express is widely regarded as a hidden gem that specializes in authentic, high-quality Sichuan cuisine. Many diners appreciate the generous portions and the remarkably fresh, homemade taste of dishes like dan dan noodles and spicy wontons, which capture a deeply comforting and traditional flavor profile. For those who enjoy intense heat, the restaurant provides an exceptionally authentic spice experience, though it is recommended to exercise caution when selecting spice levels. While the dining environment and strict service policies have received mixed feedback, the overall consensus highlights a flavorful destination for enthusiasts of bold, fragrant chili oil and hearty, satisfying meals.

Page 1 of 1 - 6 Reviews

Jacqueline

5.0

I will preface this review by saying I am a self-described spice fiend. Many a time I have asked restaurants to hit me with their spiciest dishes. Many a time I have been warned about the level of spiciness of a dish. Many a time I have been underwhelmed.

So when the lovely lady at Mala Express warned me, saying'Chinese chilies are not the same as Canadian chilies,' I still chose to order the spiciest possible Dandan noodles.

From my first bite, I knew that this would be my undoing. A level of spice so absolutely overwhelming that my nose immediately started running, my eyes watering. & yet, noodles so fiercely delicious that I knew I had to keep going. Eventually, after taking multiple breaks between bites & drinking an herbal tea & two coconut waters, I finished my bowl. It was absolutely delicious, as were the sour & spicy (mild) cucumbers.

In short, if you love intense flavours & extreme spice, Mala Express will make you feel like you are in heaven. Just don't say I didn't warn you!

Jul 30, 2026

on Google

5.0

Our favorite Chinese noodles in the west island. I don't understand the negative reviews. The noodles are so tasty & food is authentic. The owner is such a sweetheart too & you can tell works very hard. A great lunch spot or quick dinner with reasonable prices. I've been here over 5 times & will keep coming back. My favorite are the ganew noodles & beef soup with rice noodles.

Jul 9, 2025

on Google

Allen

5.0

An authentic restaurant for seeking some spicy Chinese foods! Good service & quality.

Sep 30, 2024

on Google

Richard

5.0

I ordered from here for the best first time, It is unlike any Chinese restaurant I've been to, super authentic, very very tasty, this is my new go to... Just to add, I find the prices to be very reasonable, especially considering the quality & flavor.

Feb 13, 2024

on Google

5.0

The good: If you are looking for "authentic" Chinese noodles on the west island, this is the place to go. I ordered the Dan-dan noodles. Easy/free parking. Excellent prices. Portions are good. Very satisfied with the food & service.
The not so good: Table for 2 was quite small. The soft drinks could have been colder. The atmosphere is just so-so.
Overall... if you are looking for good, inexpensive food, this place highly recommended.

Sep 11, 2023

on Google

Malek

5.0

For what it is, as in authentic Chinese food, i have no gauge to rate, but the food was simple & tasty. True it is not washed down with Canadian flavors so to say, so it is more for my palette to adjust vs the other way.

Aug 10, 2023

on Google

Mala Express

Bold Szechuan spices and fragrant broths bring authentic heat to every bowl.

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Reviews for Mala Express

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