And a little glimpse of Murano and Torcello
Monthly Archives: January 2018
The Curious Case of Gino Sorbillo, Pizza Legend
Anticipating a famous Pizzaiolo grand opening in NYC is like anticipating flu season. You hear about it in the media long before it arrives. You wonder if you should do something about it this time, because you kinda like this life thing. Then you end up forgetting all about it and doing nothing. I dont recall ever standing in line for pizza, and I dont recall ever taking a flu shot. Perhaps you can get the flu while standing in line in this brutal cold? Not really sure, and not about to take any chances in what seems like the worst flu season in recent memory. My family needs me. I think.
If I could fit a longer title it would have said something like this, “Gino Sorbillo – love at first bite, hate at last”. Ok, that sounded much longer in my head. But it was really a tale of two visits for me at this highly anticipating pizza opening. I should really do a third visit, but my wallet has other ideas in mind these days (Uncle Boons Sister, Madame Vo, Martina, etc etc). More about the wallet thing later. But we are talking about a pizza legend from Napoli opening his third location after Napoli and Milan. NYC is certainly the right place to flaunt this kind of skill. But we are talking about New York Pizza city after all.
If you read this blog longer than a few months or took my East Village tour, you know that New Yorkers live and breath pizza. We have Neapolitan, Roman, NY style pie and slice joints, Detroit, Chicago, Staten Island, State Island bar, grandma, grandpa, and baby pizza at our finger tips. Ok, I made the last one up but you get the idea. New Yorkers are surrounded by pizza, and many of them are really really good. That includes Neapolitans like Keste, Don Antonio, Eataly, and even some obscure places like Brunetti and Pasquale Jones dishing out well crafted awesomeness. Opening a pizza place in NYC, and especially East Village requires some major chaloopas, but we New Yorkers welcome any such thing with open mouths. Perhaps if the place was a little more unique like offer free flu shots with the pizza, New Yorkers would pay more attention
On both visits the place was almost empty. Granted it was on my after touring hour of 3pm, but I still expected bigger crowds considering the hype. The first thing I noticed is how large the pizzas are. At around 13-14 inch they seem to be an inch or two larger than your average city Neapolitan. That makes it even more of a challenge to fold these babies as the Neapolitans are naturally soggy in the middle. We should be lucky that these imports are even cutting them for us. Curious if they cut it for mayor De Blasio who visited both NY and Naples locations.
The first pizza I tried, Margherita with Buffalo mozzarella was outstanding. Ingredients really popping, with a soft, airy crust that was folded almost like a calzone due to the size of the slices. Even though the slices didnt hold their own, the flavors were there. By my second visit I was ready for the Nduja which is becoming one of the more popular pies here. The first few bites were promising but I got bored fairly quickly with this one. The spicy salami spread (Nduja) was alright, but couldnt save the rest of the pie that includes uneven crust with Roman-like crunchiness at times. This time each slice was totally falling apart when you lifted them to the point of (chills) fork and knife consideration. And at almost $30 after tip/tax the cost/flavor ratio really took off for my liking. A few blocks out at Martina, that ratio comes back to earth with individual pies costing a third of this, while still filling.
So while not a strong recommendation, I do encourage you to try this pizza legend and form your own opinion. At the very least, you may get a Ratatouille moment reminiscing about your time in Napoli where you wanted to try the famous Sorbillo pizza, but just couldnt cross the street!
Categories: East Village, New York City
Tags: food, Gino Sorbillo, pizza, Sorbillo NYC, Travel
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Osteria alle Testiere {Venice} – 7 Years!
It was a timely cue to a timely nap. Mrs Z could not contain her excitement and ordered her favorite drink (Spritz) the first chance she got. Then she quickly rediscovered the old formula. Long flight + drugs incurred during long flight + Spritz = Fall asleep during lunch at Al Portego, almost on top of the couple sitting next to us, sporting a strange looking smirk. I dont think I’ve seen this expression before in the 20 plus years or so. Like Robert de Niro smelling Durian. But the good news was that we were 5 minutes away from our comfortable new bed at the exceptional Ca’ Amadi. And I needed both of us well rested for the first highly anticipated meal of the trip. Even though I havent had a successful nap since I was 0.
You need to understand the complexity of making reservations for this 8 table room in order to see the humor in this scenario. A group of 4 walked in, noticed an empty table to the right, and decided to grab it, only to be asked politely to leave. Helga, we are not in Nuremberg any more. I had to grab the 9 pm slot (7 or 9) weeks in advance, and call from the airport in Frankfurt to confirm. One of the more difficult tables to get, though nothing compared to the big tables of the big apple. Reason being: Ask any Joe and Schmo that knows anything about the Venice Seafood dining scene and Osteria alle Testiere will be mentioned in every conversation.
They are running out of room to display accolades on their door front. Real accolades, not “Rated on Trip Advisor”. Why would anyone put this on their window at this day and age is a mystery to me. It’s essentially the equivalent of “We exist”. Osteria alle Testiere also understandably running out of room between tables. So before you get to to your seat, you need to quickly determine whether its more polite to showcase the couple next to you your front or behind, while they are chewing on their razor clams.
We started with one of the many seemingly timeless specialties. Scallops with orange and leeks in a light tasty broth that made the table bread to great use. Grilled razor clams were simple yet so addictive. I watched the owner carrying them to every table with envy, even though we just had them. The only place we’ve seen them in Venice. Unlike the outstanding Spaghetti with clams which we’ve seen everywhere. Another popular dish here.
But surprisingly, the little Gnochetti may have stolen the show. Tiny firm, succulent potato pillows beautifully absorbing the delicate white wine sauce with fresher than fresh shrimp. Tuna steak with a sweet aged balsamic was good but forgettable compared to the rest of the delicacies. Semifredo-like Zabaione with just enough hazelnut liquor to give Mrs Z that look again, was a solid finisher to another outstanding meal at Osteria alle Testiere. Washed it all down with a young but potent Soave.
“Dont wait another 7 years, I’m getting old” The owner told us as we were leaving with a very satisfied looking smug. I dont believe him. Nothing has changed. Things change in a much slower pace in Italy. I will see you in 7 my friend!
Categories: Italy, Venice
Tags: Best Seafood in Venice, food, Osteria alle Testiere, Osteria alle Testiere Venice, Travel, Venice
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Ssam Bar Earns 3 More
January 18th, 2018 Update:
Michelin season came and went, generating the usual fanfare and excitement, essential preventing most from noticing the more important stars being distributed. Around the same time, Momofuku Ssam Bar received 3 New Your Times Stars from Pete Wells, and only those in the restaurant industry got the memo. In fact I was told about it a few months ago by another chef when we talked about the all important subject of Skate (fish). The conversation led to Ssam Bar whose Skate helped earn the coveted stars.
The Skate is perhaps the biggest addition to the menu by Singapore born Max Ng who took over the helm last year. Its essentially a revolving door of Momofukus graduating from Ko to run the babies, Ssam, Nishi, Ma Peche, before moving on to other ventures around the world. You also get a sense of maturation these days, as the chief…
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Categories: New York City
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The Pure Thai Cookhouse Survival Guide
May 31, 2018 Update:
Does this happen to you? You look at the fridge, and see one portion of some of the best leftovers your fridge will ever see. You start to calculate and analyze who will be the lucky person to enjoy this, while the rest feast on canned sardines with couscous. The longer it stays there, the more precise the calculation needs to be in order to avoid the disastrous outcome: Trash. Such is the case with the crab fried rice and curry paste with pork in my fridge at the moment. Its now day 3 (T-Day) and its text time. I just have to be very careful with the wording. I dont feel like couscous!
But after many solo meals or with friends at Pure, this was only the third time I took my family there. And it was a feast for the ages. I will add a few dishes to the list below, but the one big takeaway is to pay special attention to the board and take advantage of the specials, especially the main course. This time it was Tiger Shrimp, glass noodles, mushrooms, bok choy, scallions dressed with a light sesame garlic soy. Most mains as such come with white rice covered completely by fried omelette. Worth going just for the specials.
January 15, 2018 Post
I started this blog in 2012, about 2 years after Pure Thai Shophouse opened on 9th ave. Yes, it was called Shophouse back then, until two lawyers from Chipotle walked inside demanding a name change. Little Pure Thai was apparently a threat to Chipotle’s brand spanking new Asian Kitchen Shophouse brand. And what do you know, the threat was apparently real. Long time readers of this blog know the story. The initial idea was to create a sense of a Thai street Shophouse-like environment inside. The place is after-all “if you sneeze you may miss it” tiny, cramped, slightly uncomfortable, and sometimes even smells a little. My type of place. But if not your type, this post may help.
It feels like Pure has been open a while longer considering how many times I’ve been there (somewhere between 50-100). I used to go there with co-workers whenever I felt like it, until it got so popular that we would need to leave the office at 11:45, 15 minutes before opening. We would sometimes even have practice drills and those who’d fail would be on a three month lunch probation. Over the years, I’ve seen it become a lot more popular with tourists. When I get emails from visitors (tour inquiries, hate mail, marriage proposals, etc), Pure is mentioned more than any other place. But not only I’m glad its successful, I couldnt keep it a secret if I wanted to. In the great sea of 9th ave Thai, there’s really nothing like it. And while establishments next door are adjusting to mass tourism with increased prices and smaller portions, Pure continues to do it the only way they know how
Pure Thai Pork
There’s a reason why Pure has been on the Hell’s Kitchen Survival Guide from day one. If you are simply after rainbow colored curries, and the basic Pad, Pure may not be the right place. But as I will mention again soon, if there’s a curry dish on that board in the back, it instantly becomes the best curry on 9th. Pure’s specialty is noodles, soups and old family, and regional recipes from all over Thailand. Here’s a little noob guide to help you take advantage of this little gem
When to come: As I mentioned this place has gotten very popular over the years. If I’m solo I come whenever I want. Two people can try as well with a solid backup option in mind (Danji). They will call you when your table is ready if theres a long wait (plenty of bars on 9th). But most convenient time is right when they open (noon), or 2:30 to 4:30 pm
What to expect: You can look at the pictures to get a sense of the type of space. Some of the friendliest people you will ever meet in NYC. The staff functions like a family, some of which have been there for a while. Sometimes they close for a few days for a retreat in a house they own upstate NY. While I never felt totally uncomfortable there, this is as far as it gets from Michelin comfort. You may sit on tiny stools, sharing a tiny table, staring at your partner or an old Thai action movie poster. And then there’s the 80’s Thai disco to complete the mood
What to order: The reason for this post….
Green Papaya Salad – This is a classic Thai dish that you can get everywhere including all over 9th ave. But Pure’s version is… well, pure, loaded with addictive heat and dried shrimp. If you never had a Papaya Salad before, you came to the right place.
Roasted Baby Back Ribs – These ribs wont win the coveted Crazy Roscoe BBQ championship any time soon (Ok, I totally made that up), but this is finger licking magic, loaded with bean paste, oyster sauce, sesame, sitting on top of the luckiest lettuce on the planet
Jungle Curry Fried Rice With Chicken – Some of the best simple looking fried rice dishes you’ll find in the city. Fragrant, and spicy (notice a trend? It ends soon). Serves as a great side dish or main.
Ratchaburi Crab & Pork Dry Noodles – This is the Oprah Winfrey of the Pure dishes. A dish liked by everyone. A specialty of Ratchaburi region, where one of the owners (wife) hails from. Its very mild and so a safe dish for the heat challenged, but satisfying enough for those seeking bolder flavors. Scoop up the broth to the top and mix this baby well.
Wok Curry Paste With Pork (second from top)- More delicious heat. Loaded with the best of Thai… string beans, Thai eggplant, bamboo shoots, green peppercorn, basil, and kaffir lime curry sauce. One of my favorite Wok dishes here, along with the Chili Turmeric With Beef, and Roasted Chili With Shrimp
Sukhothai Pork Noodles Soup – One of my favorite soups in Hell’s Kitchen. It got the depth, the aroma and all kinds of pork action. Three different textures of pork in fact including craklings.
Fried Rice With Lump Crab Meat – This is an above average crab fried rice. If you are not after a spicy fried rice like the Jungle Curry, this is a solid alternative. Its quite crabby, and quite delicious
Grilled Spicy Beef Salad – What the seared beef lacks in texture it more than makes up for it in flavor. It has the tang of a spicy Larb salad and the thin strips of green apple add a nice crunch
Special – When you come in, treasure awaits on the board in the back. The mains are more exciting. Often beef or shrimp sauteed with some kind of spicy paste, market fresh veggies, Jasmine rice, and a fried egg. And as I mentioned before, if its curry, it instantly becomes the best curry on 9th.
Mango or Pumpkin Sticky Rice – Possibly the most important tip here since you can easily miss it. Its the lone dessert, always on the board as a special but sometimes they get too lazy and dont even list it. Sometimes its Mango, sometimes Pumpkin and sometimes both. Served on top of sticky rice, with sesame and coconut milk wrapped in banana leaf. Its warm, with just enough sweetness, and simply heavenly.
Thai Iced Tea – Goes without saying. This is a good one
Categories: Midtown West, New York City
Tags: Best Thai in NYC, food, Hells kitchen, Pure Thai Cookhouse, Thai Food, Travel
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10 Tips for Venice
Warning: Some of these are tips you will see just about everywhere else. I figured if I issue the warning I can easily get away with it. But at the same time let some of this serve as a strong emphasis.
Stay for a while
I’ll start with the obvious, but perhaps the most important tip. There are many tourist cities that merit staying longer, but this place demands it even more. Venice is mostly enjoyed by day trippers and cruisers who spend the entire time in San Marco area, and then complain that Venice is way too crowded. And while they marvel at the San Marco area sights, they often miss Venice’s most important attraction, Venice. Venice’s main appeal is being one of the most unique places on earth. Being there in the morning, and at night helps, but staying at least 4 days with a day trips to Murano/Burano and perhaps Padua is key to give this place any justice.
Location, Loca
No, its not a mistake. I’m listing half of the usual “Location, Location, Location” you see everywhere else because that is exactly what it deserves, half. Venice is compact. The only time we used the Vaporetto last time is when we had no choice but cross the canal to San Giorgio Maggiore, and to the islands. Granted we stayed in a very central location this time, but it was more coincidental, and not that important to us. You can walk from the train station to St Marks, which looks quite far on the map, in 30 minutes. While location can be important, half of Venice as the title suggests can be considered in a good location, maybe more. And going back to the previous point, you are walking in Venice after all, not Cleveland. But you need to stay in Venice and not Mestre or Cleveland
Stay here
This one is very specific, but a tip nonetheless. Ca’ Amadi is a gem. Its the most central middle of nowhere place you will ever find. Its tucked inside the kind of courtyard that as a stranger you want to immediately turn around when you reach it, but as a guest, its a very welcoming and convenient retreat. Risking hypocrisy after the previous tip, this is really as central as it gets in Venice. You are within 20 minutes from just about anywhere. The rooms are roomy, modern, comfortable and mostly quiet (Yes, canal rooms are indeed romantic, but remember, their canals is the roads). And its also believed that Marco Polo himself used to live there as his family owned a few homes in the area. So dont be surprised if your food exploration sense gets a sudden shock, and you find yourself one day Cicchettiing like a maniac
Read this
There are countless of food blogs out there including I suppose the one you reading right now. But there’s only one blogger as of this writing that actually lives in Venice and understands the Venice food scene and dynamics better than anyone. And yes, some of the tips you’ll find in my blog came from the talented Nicoletta Fornaro of Naturally Epicurean.
https://www.naturallyepicurean.org/home
Visit Burano
This may be obvious to some but not all. Some may even elect to take it slow and skip it or visit just one of the islands like Murano, since its usually mentioned in the same breath. But the island of Burano is not only one of Venice’s best gems, its one of the most beautiful places we’ve ever seen. There are very few places in Europe that I describe as “Movie Sets”. Sintra, Dubrovnik, Cesky Krumlov are some. A smack in the face as soon as you get off the boat, and you dont stop smacking until you get off the island or restrained. Have lunch at Trattoria alla Maddalena in the serene island of Mazzorbo just over the bridge. And then head to Torcello
Dont Get Lost
Its understandable what everyone means by “Get Lost”, and so I’m not exactly opposing that. Getting lost in the narrow callis of Venice can be fun and rewarding, but that magic can quickly disappear if you cant eventually find your way, risking that all too familiar look from the wife. Venice can be tricky to navigate. And if you havent made Google Maps your best travel companion by now, its not too late. You can download the map of Venice back at home and use it off-line. Its easy to use and it works. And its also effective with your water transportation needs in Venice. I could have made a beautiful collage of bridges with people standing on top struggling with their paper maps.
Explore Via Garibaldi
At some point these calles and bridges may start to all look familiar, until you get to eye popping Via Garibaldi. There’s nothing like it in Venice. A wide, very wide for Venice standards, street filled with local life and old charm. Like you suddenly stepped inside another UNESCO heritage site. This is that “Laundry Hanging” moment you’ve been looking for. But dont stop there. Go all the way and cross the bridge to the island of San Pietro where you may really be the only tourist there.
Do the Cicchetti thing
No, its not a special dance, but more of a way of life. Its the Venetian answer to the aperitivo, or Spanish tapas, but quite more than that. Its an important part of Venice that you can easily miss when you give Venice one or two days.
Do your food homework kids
Although plenty have done it successfully, this is not the place to explore and stumble on the first thing that looks good. Its an incredibly touristy town with a bad food reputation, perhaps for good reason. But the lagoon is rich with wonderful seafood, producing some of the best array of seafood restaurants we encountered anywhere. If you or your spouse is not a seafood lover, you have my condolences. But if any town can convert you, its this one. Its the only place where we eat non stop and never gain any weight. So, you can find hidden gems on your own, or take the safe route and let uncle Ziggy guide you. Here’s a good starting point….
Osteria alle Testiere
Osteria Alla Frasca
Osteria Enoteca Ai Artisti
Antiche Carampane
Trattoria alla Maddalena in Mazzorbo (Burano)
L’Osteria di Santa Marina
CoVino
Anice Stellato
Trattoria Da Jonny
Plan Sensibly, follow your instincts.
You dont have to follow the masses anywhere, but it especially rings true for Venice. Venice is loaded with hidden gems and mesmerizing monuments, and simply following the herd risks missing much of that. Doge’s Palace is stunning indeed, but that means you’ll be spending a lot of time indoors in one of the most beautiful places on earth. Instead, something like Scuola Grande di San Rocco and the nearby Frari may fit your plan better. Many flock to the Peggy Guggenheim museum just because it is very highly rated. But after two visit, I find the collection and building rather dull and just not for me (Let the comments commence…). Come up with a sensible plan that includes exploring some or most of the neighborhoods, and experiences like music in a church, or a food tour. See Venice from above from San Giorgio Maggiore bell tower, and Fondaco dei Tedeschi department store terrace. Visit Basilica dei Santi Giovanni e Paolo and the hospital next door.
Wear comfortable shoes, and remember to Enjoy!
Seriously Ziggy? Not really. This is the 11th tip that is not really a tip. The type of tip that normally makes me throw up a little in my mouth every time I see it. Can someone explain what exactly “Remember to Enjoy” mean? If I can somehow click on a magical enjoy button, why do I need any other tip. Do you go to sleep sometimes on vacation thinking, “damn it, I forgot to enjoy”. And besides maybe aunt Betty’s house is there a place on this planet where you dont need to wear comfortable shoes? Two of the most overused travel cliches out there
Enjoy! 😉
Ziggy
Best Ramen Dishes in Hell’s Kitchen
Yes, I know, I’m about 24 hours late on this. Its beginning to feel a lot like spring here compared to what we experienced the previous 4 days. Today I can finally wear just enough layers and headgear to be recognizable and to comfortably go to the bathroom during tours. And I dont need to inspect the mummies I’m with every 30 minutes to make sure these are the people I’m touring with
Although during this cold spell I’ve been craving mostly Thai and Vietnamese soups, Ramen is usually the more common medicine. So for the latest issue of W42st, that colorful magazine you see all over Hell’s Kitchen, I wrote about my favorite Ramen dishes in a neighborhood that is perhaps most Ramen heavy in NYC today. Remember the four pillars of Hell’s Kitchen: Ramen, Mexican, Thai and Gay bars. Come to think of it, Gay bars is the only one I didnt write about. I’m on it.
Chicken Paitan at Ivan Ramen Slurp Shop (top)- While the average folk go for the classic dishes that made Ivan famous, savvy W42st readers should opt for the latest and greatest. The richness and deliciousness of a Tonkotsu without the heaviness.
Yuzu-Kosho Ramen at Mentoku – Solid Ramen with no wait in Hell’s Kitchen is like finding a parking spot within 30 minutes. Love the way they cut that Chasu so thin, and that spicy, zesty Yuzu paste carries some serious depth.
Spicy Ramen at Totto (bottom)- Its that complex spicy sesame oil that transforms this thing into an umami of flavors. On a really cold day, it doesnt get much better than this. Ok, maybe Turks and Caicos.
Akamaru Modern at Ippudo – Its a good time to catch up with your virtual friends while waiting for your table. Two hours later you can return the favor by posting this sumptuousness.
Tonkatsu with Spicy Black Garlic Sauce at Hide-Chan Ramen – If you like it ultra rich and porky, it doesn’t get much richer than this. Get the fried chicken too while you’re at it.
Categories: Midtown West, New York City
Tags: Best Ramen in Hell's Kitchen, food, Hell's Kitchen NYC, Ramen, Travel
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Trattoria alla Maddalena {Burano} – Best Value in Venice?
During my Brooklyn tours, we visit one of my favorite stores in NYC, Vintage in Brighton Beach. Its Turkish owned featuring sweets and various foods from all over Europe and Middle East. And every time I’m inside, it doesnt take long before I find myself staring at a particular brand of ice cream in the fridge, reminiscing about what I could only indulge in about once a year as a child. Same type of thoughts come moments earlier when we visit Coney Island. “Awwwwee”, said no one. But today, in my late 30’s (ok, 47 to be exact), I can afford to eat one of those babies more than once a year. And I do cherish every one of those moments.
You dont have to grow up poor to appreciate the little things in life, and good value. A part of that is still in you. But it does help. After spending 6 days in Venice, two things seemed fairly clear. I most likely saved the worst for last. Meaning I wasnt overly excited about the last food choices, and things just couldnt possibly get any better. Second thought was that I forget how expensive is Venice. Maybe not NYC and London prices, but certainly above almost all Italian cities we visited. Especially, possibly unfairly compared to neighbors like Sicily and Croatia for example. But on the last day, things shockingly got better and for lunch at least, a whole lot cheaper. I inadvertently saved the best for last
Burano – Now I understand! It will make you forget about that Murano place you visited moments ago. Like a slap in the face movie studio as soon as you get off the boat. But its {probably} best to get off the Disney-like island for food as deliciousness awaits just across the bride on the sleepy island of Mazzorbo. It is home to the Michelined Venissa and its vineyard. And quietly playing second fiddle is the exceptional Trattoria alla Maddalena. I dont know why I came with low expectations but I’m glad I did.
After a great start, a sizable plate of delicious mussels and clams, we were greeted with the most unique mixed seafood plate of the trip (we had a few). A brilliantly balanced combination of flavors and textures. Various kinds of large shrimp, small shrimp with grilled white polenta. Polenta in all shapes and sizes frequent the menus of Venice and this was the best we’ve had. There was an amazing Bacalau-like spread made from a rare fish (to me at least) called Dentice. A fresher than fresh octopus salad. And something they made from eggs of Sepia that tasted like crab that I couldnt get enough.
Another thing we couldnt get enough of in Venice is simply prepared seafood pasta and gnocchi, and the gnocchi with crab here was another succulent hit. Monkfish, like a good Skate, can be so delicious when fresh and just simply grilled. I regretted not having more prior to this one. In Venice, Panna Cotta is another item you want to consider every other meal or so (when taking a break from the incredible Tiramisus here), and this one topped with strawberry compote did not disappoint.
Add to that a plate of mixed veggies, a cheaper than water carafe of house white and the final bill of 86 Euros. We had another great meal the same night for almost double that amount, and just about every such full meal we had was above and in some cases way above 100. This was closer to the value we found just across the pond in Croatia earlier this year. This is another major GO!
Categories: Italy, Venice
Tags: Burano, food, Mazzorbo, Trattoria alla Maddalena, Travel, Venice
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Top 10 Dishes of 2017
Lobster Fra Diavolo at Nishi. A beautiful mammoth mess consisting of 1.5 lb flash fried salt and pepper coated lobster on a bed of garlic, chili and XO infused spaghettoni (emphasis on the chili). Lobster comes cracked and ready to easily fish out perfectly cooked meat, while the escaped crunchy Tempura flakes adds some texture to the pasta. Its a $62 triumph.
Chicken Paitan at Ivan Ramen – Not the Ramen that made Ivan famous, but the one that may convert the nonfans. The richness and deliciousness of a Tonkotsu without the heaviness that follows sometimes. The only dish other than the classics that broke the rule and became available in both Ivan Ramen locations.
Chengdu Fish Fillet With Pickle Vegetable at Legend of Taste – A spice loving family of 4 can easily share this outrageously delicious Szechuan soup. I shared it with 6 and 4 in different visits. Plenty of flaky flounder and chewy Enoki Mushroom. Pleasant heat sneak up at you. Even good an hour later when it cools down. Only problem with this legend is that its in Whitestone, Queens.
Smoked Goat Neck at Ducks Eatery – A revelation of sorts. Dont know why it took me so long to try it. It may sound like something that is not everyone’s cup of goat, but once you see what goes into this dish, it may be hard to resist. It redefines tenderness, succulence, and simply outstanding all around. The only restaurant in NYC that serves this dish.
Skate Wing at Gloria – Very few things in life can be as satisfying as a well cooked Skate. Seems like once a year or so these days I score a good one. At Gloria the skate is simply seared with butter and sprinkled with magic dust. Opened by two Contra alumni, Gloria is the best thing that opened in Hell’s Kitchen since Gotham West Market.
Eggplant Carpaccio at Nur (top)– Maybe the best looking dish out of the bunch, and the only vegetarian this time. Like a Baba Ganoush gone wild. Smoky, creamy, crunchy at times, and something you just want to “Scarpetta” the heck out of. Not every spoonful is the same. Chef Meir Adoni is sort of a legend in Israel opening his first in NYC, and just knows how to handle those veggies.
Snow Crab in Chinese Restaurant at Pinch Chinese – This is one of those dishes that you continue to think about months later, sometimes even at inappropriate moments. Glass noodles with heaps of crab, dressed with an outrageously delicious fermented bean sauce with chilies and scallions. The crab was plentiful but almost plays second fiddle to the noodles with sauce. Pinch is an underrated gem in Soho
Sizzling Sisig at Pig and Khao – East Village and Lower East Side is slowly transforming into Sisigville (pig’s face parts come sizzling and topped with egg yolk). And the best Sisig I had is at this Filipino inspired celebrity chef Leah Cohen’s flagship. Very nice depth, flavor packed, and not as strong tasting as other Sisigs. No additional sauce needed for this one.
Laab Ped Udon at Ugly Baby – Maybe the best thing to open this year is this fiery Brooklyn Thai from an old Brooklyn friend. And this larby Duck Salad is one of the classics early on. Complex, addictive heat, and unlike any Larb or larb-like salad you will ever have. Spice level is fairly high in all dishes here, but in particular in those that have words like “Spicy” in the description.
Fromage Blanc Island “Cheese Cake” at Chikalicious Dessert Bar – Best dessert I’ve had this year came from an oldie but goodie. Its delicate, elegant, and super light. Like delicious fresh cheese mixed with cloud. Its worth just going in order to meet the master Chika Tillman herself. But if this dessert scene is a little foofoo for you, try the faster Dessert Club across the street and go for the Nutty Professor ice cream.
Other Noteables: Soy Keema at Indian Accent, Goi Hed at Somtum Der, Spicy Lemongrass soup at Ginger and Lemongrass (new Lower East Side location)
Happy and Healthy New Year to all my readers and all the fun people I met over the year. Thanks for a great 2017!
Categories: New York City
Tags: Best Dishes, Chikalicious Dessert Bar, Ducks Eatery, food, Gloria NYC, Ivan Ramen, Legend of Taste, Nishi, Nur, Pig and Khao, Pinch Chinese, Travel, Ugly Baby
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Eating With Ziggy 