First, an apology to you readers, both of you, for the lack of quality posts as of late. Busy with work, family, various projects, avoiding Obama. Yes, Obama visiting the Daily Show the other day causing major havoc to many New Yorkers trying to go home or just go about their business. Have you ever seen an American president stuck in traffic? There’s no such thing. At some point the entire 52nd st was converted to Obama freeway where no cars or pedestrians could cross from north to south. Close to three hour commute. My friend and fellow blogger at Smum County told me today about the commute nightmare of his daughter’s camp that day. Even the homeless guy on 52nd and 11th had to be temporarily displaced, and knowing him and his apparently very annoying invisible friend, I feel sorry for the poor cops that were tasked with that one. And for what? 15 minutes of American entertainment.
But I digress, quickly. Since not even Obama can steal the spotlight of this post about one of the best meals we’ve had lately. No coincidence it was in East Village. No coincidence from young chefs opening their first restaurant. In a way this place reminds me of Tuome nearby. Very young chefs (I was told 12 years old by our waitress but it was a little loud), playful Asian inspired menus, no desserts (I dont consider the chips dessert) and that overall casual, buzzy East Villagy feel. In fact since this was a last minute rezzy, I was wondering if perhaps I was underdressed for the occasion after reading on Chowhound that this was more of a chic, romantic joint. So I asked the guy on the phone if sexy long shorts with sandals (and desperate need of pedicure depending on the light) were ok and he just burst out laughing. As for the food, plenty of hits, and no bad dish in sight
Fried Chicken – Started with a bang. Tapioca flour coated, far from your ordinary battered fried chicken. Shredded Leeks was a nice touch
Cold Buckwheat noodles – Excellent! Pretty much exactly what you expect but with the much added bonus of spring Ramps preserved from the previous spring. Those ramps soaked in a lot of punch
Jang-Jo-Rim – Enjoyed this one. If I have to pick the weakest dish this might be it, though its more of a testament to the other dishes and I still recommend you get it. Buttered rice once mixed in with the egg and everything else had a nice flavor. The King Oysters Mushrooms was my favorite part, but the beef shank could have been a little warmer
Truffle Seafood Broth – Best dish of the night. Mussels, Shrimp, two Crispy Rice “Sheets” that sizzle when the broth is poured table side, need to be softened a little for best taste. But its all about the beautiful, dark, rich broth that makes this a winner. Just a small hint of truffle, perhaps not enough to be part of the name, but just right to round up the perfect broth
Oxtail – Finger licking exceptional good. I was concerned that it would be too sweet but it wasnt. Pick it up and suck on the bones for the true affect. More tasty root veggies here. Really liked the use of veggies throughout the meal. Their mama must be proud
Potato Chips – The most disgustingly addictive thing I ever ate. Apparently a thing in South Korea nowadays.
Go!
Oiji
119 1st Avenue (7/St Marks)
$$$
Recommended Dishes: All of the above
Eating With Ziggy 