Chinese noodle explainer: Six different strands in NYC

The finest of these hand-pulled noodles are leavened and stretched in the style of Lanzhou, a city in the dusty mountains of Northwestern China. They have a dense, springy texture and are traditionally served in a beef or mutton broth or stir-fried in tomato sauce.
Where to get them: Lam Zhou Hand Made Noodles, 144 East Broadway between Essex and Pike Sts (212-566-6933)

These thick, hand-pulled wheat noodles are commonly used in hearty country-style soups  from China’s north-central Shaanxi region. Their onomatopoeic name allegedly comes from the sound of the dough slapping counter as it’s stretched.
Where to get them: Xi’an Famous Foods, 67 Bayard St between Elizabeth and Mott Sts (xianfoods.com)

Usually panfried with sliced veggies and pork, these udon-like wheat noodles are a staple of Shanghainese street food.
Where to get them: 456 Shanghai Cuisine, 69 Mott St between Bayard and Canal Sts (212-964-0003)

Made from absorbent starch, these fine glass noodles are an excellent vehicle for intense flavors, like the scorching pork-and-chili sauce in the Szechuan classic “Ants Climbing a Tree” (ma yi shang shu).
Where to get them: Szechuan Gourmet, 135-15 37th Ave between Main and Prince Sts, Flushing, Queens (718-888-9388)

Particularly popular in Cantonese cuisine, these fine egg noodles can be stir-fried or quickly blanched in a broth. When done right, they add a nice al dente texture to wonton soup.
Where to get them: Sifu Chio, 40-09 Prince St between Main St and Roosevelt Ave, Flushing, Queens (718-888-9295)

There are innumerable variations on the rice noodle, but the Yunnan style, mi xian—from the rainforests bordering Southeast Asia—is reputed to be the most fragrant and flavorful, and is typically served in light, fresh soups.
Where to get them: Yun Nan Flavor Garden, 5121 Eighth Ave between 51st and 52nd Sts, Sunset Park, Brooklyn (718-633-3090)