I took a gamble on a takeaway that has barely any photos online

I took a gamble with my takeaway this week. My search for somewhere to order from was not straightforward. I intended to go to China Court in West Derby, as the takeaway was named as among the best in the UK at the annual Asian Restaurant and Takeaway Awards.

The takeaway was shortlisted along with Arong in Fazakerley and Moss Bank Express in St Helens, based on nominations by customers from across the UK, as well as food hygiene ratings, with a judging panel making the final decision.

However, when I got there the takeaway was closed, despite Google telling me it was open. Slightly dejected, I searched for other alternatives. I found one on a delivery app called Adam’s Noodle House in St Michael’s.

This place has barely any social media presence, and there’s few pictures of it online. I had to place my faith in the ratings, with an average of 4.3 out of 5 from 1,500 reviews.

I decided to order beef with black bean sauce, egg fried rice and a portion of salt and pepper chips. It was delivered to my door within half an hour and very quickly I realised my gamble had paid off.

The beef and vegetables smelt delicious when I opened up the container. When I mixed it in with the rice, it looked fantastic. The salt and pepper chips looked quite nice too.

As I tucked in, I felt like I’d made a good choice. There were good sized chunks of beef, mixed in with plenty of hearty vegetables. The salt and pepper chips meanwhile were soft but deliciously spicy.

Soon however, I realised I might have made a mistake. The meal I’d ordered was a bit too much for one person. I’d ordered a small portion of chips but it didn’t look like it.

I did make it through the beef but finishing the chips off was too much of a tall order. However, it’s always better to be left with too much than too little.

It reminded me that you can find good Chinese practically anywhere in Liverpool. It’s one of the city’s favourite takeaways and this passion is matched by the quality of the places serving it.

The order came to £16.56 including the delivery fee and tip, which feels like good value compared to what you pay for more established places. My choice was vindicated, even though I had some leftovers.