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Ten Years of PRON: Linden’s People’s Republic of Noodles Still Knows How to Surprise

Published

3 weeks ago

August 13, 2025

Chiraag

PRON Linden, Northern Chinese restaurant Johannesburg, handmade noodles Linden, dim sum Johannesburg, xiao cai small dishes, Emma Chen PRON, Joburg ETC

A decade of noodles, stories, and flavour in Linden

Ten years ago, tucked into Seventh Street in Linden, PRON, the People’s Republic of Noodles, opened its doors with a mission to bring the food of Emma Chen’s childhood to Johannesburg. On 1 July 2025, the restaurant marked its tenth birthday, a milestone that feels both young and seasoned for a spot that has quietly become a cornerstone of the suburb’s dining scene.

PRON is the younger sibling to Chen’s acclaimed Red Chamber in Hyde Park, but it has carved its own personality. Where Red Chamber leans towards refined Chinese dining, PRON is casual, bold, and brimming with the robust flavours of Northern China.

Food for the people

Chen grew up in Taiwan, in a family whose roots stretch to China’s north, where noodles and bread take centre stage over rice. Her food memories are filled with “small dishes,” simple plates meant for sharing, often served cold, and always full of character. PRON brings those memories to life with vibrant xiao cai, fresh handmade noodles prepared daily on site, and comforting dim sum, from delicate steamed dumplings to pan-fried potstickers with golden, crispy edges.

The signature Northern style is unmistakable: spring onion, coriander, garlic, chilli, and numbing Sichuan peppercorns that turn every bite into a lively, mouth-tingling experience. It is food that wakes you up, even on a slow Joburg afternoon.

PRON People’s Republic of Noodles, Linden food scene, Northern Chinese flavours, PRON handmade noodles, PRON dim sum, PRON Johannesburg restaurant, Joburg ETC

Image 1: Facebook/PRON

Ten years on, still evolving

Chen credits PRON’s longevity to her loyal team, many of whom have been there since day one, and to the customers who have embraced the restaurant’s distinctive menu. “We will carry on introducing new and authentic dishes,” she says, hinting that PRON’s story is far from over.

The restaurant remains closed on Sundays, but from Monday to Saturday, the kitchen is open from noon to 9:30pm, feeding regulars and curious newcomers alike. In a neighbourhood where food trends come and go, PRON’s commitment to honest, bold flavours and the craft of fresh noodles has kept it relevant and loved.

Linden may be kilometres from the bustling noodle houses of Northern China, but step into PRON, and it feels like the emperor really can wait while you eat.