On the way to Staten Island’s Sri Lankan gem San Rasa the other day, I felt a little uneasy. I was quickly losing yet another argument in my head. I’m bringing another couple with me and I don’t have reservations on a Saturday night. That is because the young man on the phone (I feel a little old today) told me I don’t need to make reservations. And not because he knew who I was! “Are you sure? Its Saturday, prime time and its the four of us”. Emphasizing on the number 4 which can be very large on a Saturday night across the pond. “Yes, I’m sure sir. You don’t need reservations”. Fine! But if we come in to a full house and we don’t get a table.. oooh boy.. watch out. Sentences that begin with F words like “Forget this, we are going to Lakruwana ” will be flying out the door. Forgetting to take the young man’s name however was the mistake that lead to losing the argument in my head.
We show up to an empty restaurant! And I don’t mean empty as in a couple in the corner, and a family from France that read about the place on EWZ in the other corner (like last time). I mean there was no one there. “Should we leave and check out Lakruwana” briefly entered our minds. But this is after all, Staten Island’s lone entry in the coveted Z-List, and we made it this far unharmed. I’ve been to San Rasa for lunch, and dinner at the old location, but this was the first dinner at the new and improved San Rasa. Seeing it empty disappointed but did not totally shock me.
Without upsetting too many people, San Rasa is simply too far for most folks who appreciate good food. There are plenty of people on the island of Staten that appreciate good food, but not nearly enough to fill a quarter of San Rasa on a Saturday night. Staten Island doesn’t deserve and cant really appreciate something like this. Give em a buzzy American Italian trattoria, a pizzeria that serves chicken parm, a few Russians to satisfy the Russian communities, a few glorifies diners like Z-one, Z-two, [Name any chain], and the residents are more than satisfied. Like any residents in the burbs would I should add. For most residents the ferry area is quite a schlep (30-40 mins for many) and the true island gems like Sri Lankan Lakruwana, San Rasa, New Asha, and other gems like Enoteca Maria are unrecognizable names. The ferry area is almost like a Manhattan extension, albeit too far and arguably not interesting enough for Manhattanites.
But as often said on this blog, Sri Lankan food is the number one reason to stay after you take those selfies with lady liberty off the ferry. The new San Rasa is not only walking distance, but its décor is now much closer to the Sri Lankan museum-like Lakruwana. The old place was too bare bones and cold looking. Not that I mind when the food is that good. Sunday at all the Staten Island’s Sri Lankan is Funday. By that I mean, some of the best, most unique buffets in the city. For $12 you get a nice array of vegetable, rice, egg goodies, along with two meat specialties. Exceptionally great value and the only buffet I take my family.
But dinner is when the fun really starts. San Rasa turns out is under new management and new chef. While the empty house did not exactly look promising, the result was best San Rasa ever. Meet chef Lalith (one name like Madonna) who has taken the great chef Sanjay lead, adding his own bolder, spicier spin. You feel it right off the bat with the Mulligatawny soup. Unlike the prior Mulligatawny, this one is a little creamier, nuttier, spicier, and simply has more oomph. Thats the only starter I recommend. Save room for the goodies to come. Like the Lamprie, an old dutch colony classic that is the one must get here. The pictures here can only set the bar low, or prevent you from ordering it altogether. But that would be a mistake. Proceed with the hoppers and egg hoppers (not available on this day) before hitting the “Ziggurat” shaped String Hopper Kottu, all with your choice of your favorite curry. And with that my friends I’m announcing the addition of “Ziggurat” to my vocabulary. A fittingly bizarre combination of Ziggy and Borat (for those that know me too well).
Add the award winning Chicken Biryani to the list of musts here. It comes oddly decorated as if it just came from a Bar Mitsvah in the Staten Island Hilton. But I’m betting its the flavor profile that gave it a third place finish in a recent NYC Biryani competition. Mounds of crispy fried chicken on top of gorgeously spiced basmati with more succulent chicken inside was like no Biryani I’ve ever seen. And instead of dessert, finish with a fiery sizzling Deviled something. We usually do shrimp.
San Rasa – better and emptier than ever. “Ayubowan” – May you live long!
San Rasa 19 Corson Ave, Staten Island $$ Recommended Dishes: Mulligatawny soup, Lamprie, Hoppes, Kottu Roti, Chicken Biryani, Deviled Shrimp
“It’s not Sanjaya, it’s called Sarjai’s” I kept telling her all week. “You are thinking of American Idol”. It didn’t matter as she wouldn’t budge. Brains are on vacation too. By the 4th day I said good morning at 8 pm, to a cactus, without anything to drink of significance. And by the 6th I was calling it Sanjaya too. We needed to be on the same page to survive this brain freeze. We talked about Sarjai’s often partly because I wanted to break our #1 rule. But she wouldn’t go for it. First trip to foodie powerhouse Anguilla and you want to eat at the same place twice? That stands against everything our ancestors stand for. Our ancestors been to Anguilla?
On our first dinner in Anguilla I was like a 9 year old girl at a Justin Bieber concert. Forget the appetizers… the Caesars, the Capreses, the Crispy “anything but the F word, fri@#d” Calamari are just the warm-up acts that no one cares about. Bring me the Bieberlicious! 4 Mains, nothing less! “Oh thats just Meshugenah. My Xanax from the flight hasnt even fully kicked in yet”. 3 Mains! The fourth was the infamous Steak au Poivre, the most delicious thing on this vacation I haven’t had. After all, it comes with something called Aunty Joan’s Home-made Curried Fries. And if there’s one thing I learned during my travels is that anything with the word Aunty in it is a must get. Think about it. Have you ever had something that made you say, “this is great, but that aunty side suggests this Aunty needs a stint or two at Le Cordon Blue. Get rid of her”. Most likely never.
My first wife and travel companion believes there was a Welcome to Anguilla sign at the ferry entrance, and she has pictures to prove it. My eyes meanwhile were fixated on an Anguillan goat. That was my Welcome to Anguilla sign. That same night, the stewed goat at Sarjai’s was spot on. Tender, succulent, fatty in all the right places, like slow dancing with your mother in law.
The perfectly flaky creole snapper could have come just a perfectly flaky creole snapper with some rice and peas as in so many places like this, but not here. It arrives with delicious curried cabbage (buried under that fish – oh what fun) and coconut sweet potato dumplings that chef Darren’s grandma makes. Those dumplings grew on us in a hurry, and next thing you know we can’t get enough of them. A brilliant dish that set the bar nicely for many more snappers to come
And our first foray into the Anguillan Crayfish was quite a success. Crayfish in Anguilla is essentially spotted spiny lobster and has no resemblance to the sea roaches of New Orleans. At Sarjai’s they come plentiful, sweet and buttery even without the help of the butter on the side. Not overcooked at all unlike some of the Crayfish we enjoyed the rest of the week.
I enjoyed the warm coconut pie, especially since the wife wouldnt touch the stuff. When she tries anything with bits of coconut in it, her face turns into Robert de Niro and she starts spitting profusely. She did enjoy her passion fruit cheesecake.
Sarjai’s, named after chef Darren Connor’s daughter, delivered the kind of vacation debut I can only wet dream about. Chef Connor, like a true Anguillan idol, represents Anguilla from time to time in cooking competitions. Fresh from his trip to NY and Omaha where he learned more about the art of beef, shows the kind of passion and skill you dont normally see in places like this. Places without a sommelier or dedicated stool for your man’s purse. Its the kind of place you are free to run around like a two year old, and talk to the chef like an old friend. I need more friends like this. Ok, one will do for now.
My 30 favorite restaurants in NYC. Still sticking to Brooklyn and Manhattan as these are the two boroughs tourists and I mostly frequent. I live too far from the interesting parts of Queens, and the Bronx. Only rule as usual is $10-100 per person. Meaning nothing that should cost over $100 or under $10 per person. That covers roughly 99% of sit downs in NYC. An affordable list for the people, by the people (Ok, by one person, but you get the idea). Congrats to the winners!
Manhattan
Pure Thai Cookhouse
LumLum may be giving it a run for its money as the top Thai in “Little Bangkok” 9th ave, but I still think Pure Thai is the best one. Its tiny. If you blink you may miss it. I used to go here when they were called Pure Thai Shophouse until two lawyers from Chipotle showed up demanding a name change (long story with a happy ending). There is no curry of every color on this menu like its competitors, but a nice selection of regional specialties like the Ratchaburi with pork, crab and dry handmade noodles made in the “shophouse” like corner inside. The ribs are usually a hit. Papaya salad, jungle curry fried rice, and the always reliable fiery pork with curry paste. And as with any place, if there’s one dessert on the menu, get it. Coconut sticky rice with pumpkin custard is the bomb (and better than LumLum’s version). 766 9th Avenue (51st)
Tia Pol
West Chelsea is known for some of the city’s best Spanish Tapas for some reason, and Tia Pol, one of the originals, is leading the pack. You can probably play Six Degrees of Tia Pol with the number of related Tapas spots in the area and all over town. This is the perfect spot to bring your mother in law as its dark and noisy. Especially if you MIL is into squid ink rice, best I’ve had in this city. Octopus salad, Patatas Bravas, shrimp with garlic are all dependable, and so are the Bocadillos (sandwiches) for lunch. This is as fun as it can get in Little Barcelona (it will catch on) The excellent Salinas is another good one in the area. 205 10th Ave (23rd)
Rezdora
This list is heavy on the Italian for a reason, but if I have to pick just one, it would probably be Rezdora. Its the closest we have to Emilia Romagna cooking, arguably the tastiest of the 20 regions (though Piedmont may want a word). More specifically much of the inspiration comes from Modena, perhaps the most underrated Italian gem as far as food goes. It didnt take long for Rezdora to earn a Michelin Star, so its a bit more popular than when I first recommended it. No point for me to recommend specific dishes here as you cant really go wrong, especially with the pastas. 27 E 20th St (Broadway
Milu
A good and refreshing example of what happens when students of fine dining open a fast-casual place instead of another pricy joint. Essentially an Eleven Madison Park and Shake Sack love child created by ex EMP chefs. The draw is cleverly crafted Asian bowls that includes quality rice, greens and a protein. I sort of settled on the Szechuan style chicken, but everything else I tried except for the duck last time was solid. As far the cheap eats go it doenst get much better than this. 333 Park Ave S (25th)
Anton’s
Another very solid Italian(ish) in a very competitive Italian heavy West Village. When places a such start opening for lunch you know they are doing something right. After being in charge of the kitchens at Maialino and Marta, Nick Anderer finally left Union Square Hospitality Group to open his own place. That means an ingredient driven menu with some focus on nostalgia, like the Bucatini Baczynsky with ham from the ageless Baczynsky meat shop in East Village. Even the simpler dishes like Spinach-ricotta Ravioli are not to be missed due to the high degree of execution and attention to detail. 570 Hudson (W 11th)
L’Antica Pizzeria da Michele
Opening a Neapolitan style pizzeria in the heart of Manhattan these days requires some major Bombolone. We got plenty of great ones there, while not enough in the outer boroughs. But da Michele might very well be the most well rounded Italian of the bunch. Not only you got a fantastic thin, plus size Neapolitan, you got a large comfortable setting, and a full menu that includes proper Arancini, crafty pastas, and even a killer Caesar salad. 2 Bank St (Greenwich)
Song’ e Napule
While da Michele is a family favorite Pizzeria with fantastic pizza,Song’ e Napule might just be the best pizza in the purest form. Always light, bright and fantastic raw material. Although I’ve been singing its praises for years now (ever since a Gelato owner from Milan told me about it), shame on me for only including it on the guide now (2024). The main issue I had before was that the place was too tiny. But not only they opened new locations in UWS and NJ, they expended the original post. The name has nothing to do with songs (“I’m from Naples” in Neapolitan dialect). The only singing you’ll hear is by baby angels while munching on the Diavola. 146 W Houston St (MacDougal)
Jeju Noodle Bar
I hope you listened to me before the Michelin star, higher prices and crowds, although its been fairly popular ever since it opened in 2017 pretty much. They also now require ressies which makes them a bit less accessible. I’m risking having too much Korean or Korean inspired on the list (update: I removed some so no longer true). This may be a reflection on my taste or the current state of NYC dining, but at the same time, they all so very different. Jeju is stylish, playful, while dishing out flavor packed stuff. While the kitchen specializes in Ramyun, the Korean Ramen, its best to order it as part of the Tasting Menu, one of the better values in town (assuming they still offer it). 679 Greenwich St (Christopher)
Balaboosta
The “perfect housewife” is also the perfect marriage between Einat Admony’s flagship and sexier little sister Bar Bolonat. Its like the “Best of” one of America’s most celebrated Israeli chefs. Her range will make you question whether you are eating Middle Eastern, Italian, or Chinese (Yemenite Soup Dumplings, anyone?). Try the Hummus, eggplant, Kebabs, and Short Rib. 611 Hudson St ( 12th/Jane)
Leitao
Probably my favorite discovery in 2024 (so far). This is the most ambitious Portuguese menu I’ve ever seen in NYC. Owner from Braga doing all sorts of wizardry. Even some of the drinks like Porto Tonic are Portuguese inspired. The signature Peri Peri Chicken will dazzle alright. But I wouldnt skip the butterflied seabass, the sensational falling off the bones Porco Preto, and any of the Octopus dishes (The salad especially). Oh and did I mention they also have a Francesinha. If you never had a Francesinha in Porto yet you havent lived life to the fullest. This is the closest you’ll get in NYC. 547 Hudson St (Perry)
Via Carota
This has quickly become a West Village institution and one of the most well rounded Italian in the entire city. No reservations makes a place like this much more accessible. The most I waited for a table is about 20 minutes. The same menu for lunch and dinner is greatly appreciated (and somewhat rare for places like this), and the many daily specials make it even more interesting. Although many of staples like the Cacio e pepe, chicken, and the sick Funghi with smoked Scamorza makes ordering specials here virtually impossible. 51 Grove st (Bleecker)
Foxface Natural
I cant think of another story like Foxface Natural. From a little sandwich shop, the size of a hers and hers closet, to a dare I say inventive Michelin caliber stuff. All the stars essentially aligned when David Santos of EWZ old fave Louro joined the team. I cant even tell you what to try as it probably wont be on the menu when you go. But if you followed Foxface and Louro closely you’d learn to expect the unexpected, except top notch ingredients and highly skilled execution. 189 Avenue A (12th st).
Hearth
An EV staple that’s consistent while constantly evolving. Marco Canora seems to have found the right formula, creating a menu that is essentially for everyone… Meat freaks, health conscious, pescatarians, vegetarians, vegans, accountants, everyone. Some of the old classics like the Rigatoni and Gnocchi, and the impressive Spatchcock chicken are joined by new classics like Cecina and Rabbit. And that wine bible is still perhaps the NYC wine list to beat. Canora is also the founder of Brodo, the attached bone broth kiosk which is the absolute best way to pass the day before Colonoscopy. 403 E 12th St (1st ave)
Claude
A Z-list no brainer. I just follow Josh Pinsky wherever he goes since the Momofuku Nishi days. He called the cops on me a few times, but after a while he got used to it. Claud feels like a Momofuku support club for fans and staff, and like Momofuku, its hard to categorize the place. From the Foie Gras to simply cooked shrimp, to the expertly cooked Halibut, your taste buds will thank you. 90 E 10th St (3rd/4th)
Fiaschetteria “Pistoia”
While so many Italian establishments bill themselves as “Tuscan”, “Roman”, “Venetian”, and eventually get sucked into a multitude of regional offerings, Pistoia only knows how to do one thing; Pistoian food! The family owns a restaurant in Pistoia, near Florence, Tuscany, and for the most part replicating some of the same Tuscan specialties in Alphabet City. Good luck finding Pici and Pappa Con Pomodoro (A Tuscan classic of stale bread in tomato soup) on the same menu anywhere else in NYC. From the staff, to the menu, and wine, its as authentic as it gets in NYC. Now also in West Village 647 E 11th St (Ave C)
Pig and Khao
Probably a top 5 for me. “Top Chef” Leah Cohen quietly continues to dazzle with brilliant Southeast Asian creations, adding dishes seemingly by the day. Classics like the Sizzling Sisig (third generation Sisig with pork head and egg), and Khao Soi are there to stay. But on a recent visit, its the newer stuff like a spicy Thai mushroom salad, Malaysian fried chicken, and corn that left me speechless. 68 Clinton St (Rivington)
Pinch Chinese
Take a break from Armani Exchanging in Soho and relax in this quirky elevated Chinese. Its an offshoot of Din Tai Fung, a popular Taiwanese Dumplings chain. The Dumplings reign supreme alright but dont miss out on the ribs, Dan Dan Noodles, Snow Crab, the sensational whole chicken, and one of the most celebrated Peking Duck’s in the city. Not to mention the great lunch specials (that sweet cauliflower!) A serious looking crew behind the glass (like watching surgeons doing brain surgery) is balanced by humor all over the place. 177 Prince st (Thompson)
Raoul’s
A solid old school French bistro that’s both popular and often forgotten at the same. In some ways similar to Minetta Tavern nearby. Entertaining New Yorkers for over 50 years, and settled into a haute(ish) destination with a great cocktail menu (try the Aviation). Raoul’s burger is widely considered among the best in the city, and their Steak au Poivre might be the undisputed city champ. Its pricy, but large enough to share.
Thai Diner
Uncle Boons 2.0 is now as popular as Uncle Boons 1.0, though much more comfortable and arguably even better. Its hard to pass by without seeing people waiting outside, though if you come off hours (like 4pm) you should be golden. Speaking of golden, try the Disco Fries, Coconut Sundae, egg sandwich, crab fried rice, but honestly you cant go wrong here. The only dish that didnt quite do it for me was the Green Curry with braised beef, but thats just a testament to the rest of the menu. Check out this Thai Diner Survival Guide for more tips. 186 Mott St (Kenmare)
Wayan
Cedric Vongerichten (Jean-Georges’ son) latest in food heaven NoLita is a Tour de Force. Aided by his Indonesian wife Ochi, Wayan dishes out all sorts of complex bold flavors. The menu features Indonesian inspired recipes utilizing French techniques. Try the Satays, Sashimi, Clams, Yellow Chicken, and do not leave without slurping on those sick Lobster Noodles. One of the most exciting new openings of 2019. 20 Spring St
19 Cleveland
My favorite Israeli/Middle Eastern in NYC these days. It’s the perfect bridge between haute and casual. You can still get some killer falafel and hummus (a la sister Nish Nush), but also craftier items like eggplant carpaccio, and fish Shawarma. Even items from other parts of the world, like Spatzl with lobster, fried calamari are solid. Great for brunch and dinner. 19 Cleveland Pl (Kenmare)
Nish Nush
This is another fast-casual quicky, and my favorite Falafel in the city. I used to bike to this place 30 minutes when I worked in Hell’s Kitchen. Thats 30 minutes there, and 40 minutes back after a full tummy. It may not bring you a Ratatouille moment but its probably the closest to a typical Falafeleria (is this a word?) in Tel Aviv. I’m partial to this location rather than the newer one in FiDi. The freshness here including the fluffy pitas is a difference maker. You can also have a very good Sabich, Hummus among many other things. The menu expended over the years making it easier to include Nish Nush on this list. 88 Reade (Church)
Brooklyn
Kashkar Cafe
This is where you get your Uyghur fix! A gem like no other on this list, but you will need to schlep there. Kashkar is located in Brighton Beach, a predominately Russian neighborhood except that its becoming less and less Russian and more Uzbek, Georgian, Kazakh. And its reflected by the dining options all over. Uyghur is an Ethnic group living in Eastern and Central Asia including Uzbekistan where Kashkar’s owners are from, and as far as I know Kashkar is one of the first if not the first Uyghur restaurant in NY if not the US. One of the specialties here is the chewy hand pulled Lagman noodles that you can have as soup or dry with meat and veggie stews (try the dry Geiro Lagman). The Kebabs are also solid 1141 Brighton Beach Ave (Brighton Beach)
Indian Table
It may change any week, but nothing short of a triumphant meal or two can replace Indian Table as my favorite Indian in NYC at the moment. Great food, and unlike so many, a name easy to remember and spell. Two of my favorite words in my vocabulary. The other favorites are Pizza and Brouhaha. IT is Goan at its core, so plenty of Goan and hence Portuguese influences throughout the menu, with the talented Eric McCarthy at the helm. Try the Achari Chicken Tikka, Choris Pao, Punjabi Samosas, and any of the curries, like Chicken Chettinad, Butter Chicken (ask if not on the menu), and the Konkan Railway Mutton. 234 Court St (Cobble Hill)
Werkstatt
Probably our favorite overall restaurant in Brooklyn these days. A few years back I didnt add this eclectic Austrian to the list partly due to the location. But now I realize that its the location that makes it so special. You can pretty much draw a line separating Brooklyn’s gentrified with the not so gentrified half and you’ll find Werkstatt positioned smack in the middle. Pair it with a visit to Historic Prospect South, Prospect Park, or Brooklyn Museum. Some come for the Schnitzel, Goulash, and “Best Pretzel in NYC”, but these days I go for the numerous fish specials like Skate wing. Its a severely underrated neighborhood joint that should be the envy of every neighborhood. 509 Coney Island Ave (Flatbush)
Claro
Although Oaxacan by nature, Claro is the closest you’ll get to the full service Mexico City experience in NYC. Its on the higher end, where you can easily surpass the over $100 pp. But perhaps not high enough for Michelin which stripped it from its star. Perhaps the unassuming casual environment had something to do with it. Black Bass with green mole, topped with smoked Trout roe, Mole Negro, and Arroz con Leche are some of the highlights. Although the menu constantly changes. 284 3rd Ave (Gowanus)
Cotra
Around the corner of the previously mentioned (as of this writing) Claro, is another winner, albeit a lot less known and easier to reserve. Cotra is a newish (2023) Izakaya dishing out all sorts of addictive awesomeness, like the aptly named Addictive Cabbage. But you cant really go wrong with any of the smaller plates like the Mochiko Chicken and Spicy Tuna on Crispy Rice. Though it may be tough to pass on the Yakiniku Ribeye Steak. 451 Carroll St (Gowanus)
Hometown BBQ
There was a time when finding good BBQ in the city was as difficult as watching a constipated baby. Those days are officially gone. Those that still say that need to come out of the their shell, and go straight to Red Hook. It took me a while to warm up to Hometown, but now I cant get enough of it. Hometown’s quick and growing fame reached a point of a major destination stop and ‘Franklin-esque’ weekend lines. The spare ribs, and the legendary brisket are unmatched. But what sets Hometown apart is the craftiness and execution of the normally secondary items like the super moist chicken, and the addictive sausage. 454 Van Brunt St (Red Hook)
Chuan Tian Xia
It’s beyond time I add our favorite Chinese in Brooklyn, and our traditional Xmas meal. We have a number of favorites in NYC’s largest Chinatown, but this is the place where we feel most at home. Not a case where every dish we ever tried was a slam dunk, but we settled on our favorites while adding new ones from time to time (I’m looking at you Cumin Lamb). Try the String Beans, Cauliflower, Hot and spicy fish fillet, Kung Pao chicken. 5502 7th Ave (Sunset Park)
Lilia
It took me 4 weeks to train my Google to stop showing me results for Ilili (Gourmet Lebanese) whenever I searched for Lilia. Missy Robbins, Barack Obama’s favorite chef in Chicago (when he was a senator) dishes out freakishly good pastas like the Cacio e Perfect Malfadini and Agnolotti. The vegetables all over the app section featuring the best of Union Square Market. Great simple meat dishes, and all sorts of “Little Fish” and “Big Fish” hugging the menu. She must be a PJ Harvey fan. 567 Union Ave (Williamsburg)
Ya, doesnt make much sense, does it? Allow me to explain. I dont have time to blog because I’m too busy blogging (saying it this way doesnt make it clearer Ziggy). I’m in the process of writing the mother of all posts which is approaching 5000 words. My wife will attest that I havent written this much in all my college years, combined. This is something that started as a joke on the message boards but also something I’ve been meaning to write for a while. Behold… Ziggy’s List.
Ziggy’s List, sort of like Angie’s List but completely different, is simply a list of my favorite 50 restaurants in NYC right now. Well, kinda! It will not contain anything where you would spend over $100 per, and nothing less than $10 per. Anything between 10-100 goes. So you wont find old faves like Ko, Marea, Aquavit, Chicken over rice guy, Nish Nush, etcetera etcetera (Meaning the words, not the restaurant called Etcetera Etcetera which I refuse to eat due to the name alone). Its essentially a list for the 99% of us that just want something good to eat without selling any kidneys.
This is a monumental task that’s quite frankly becoming rather daunting. And I’m just talking about coming up with the name. Other nominees were The Ziggat 50, The Ziggy 50, The Nifty Fifty, Z-50, and Not The Best 50. I also considered making it a cool number like 38 but that’s already taken. Yes, I suppose there are other numbers out there but I really wanted 38. I just grew tired of all the lists out there. The Michelin list is sort of a joke, Zagat’s algorithm needs a major refresher, Trip Advisor is sending tourists to all the wrong places. As one of the names above suggests, this will certaninly not be the “Best” NY has to offer. I’m just one Ziggy, and I cant try them all, over and over again. But I think it will be a good one.
Stay tuned: December 9th (or sooner) is my deadline. But I may start phoning some selected restaurants sooner with Mazal Tovs a la Michelin.
I’ll start this one with the current list of my biggest weaknesses: Pizza, Bread Pudding, small spiders, Ramen, foreign movies, big spiders, White Truffles. Yes, white truffles! Or as I call it, Tuber Magnatum Pico. As some of you that read this blog for a while know, me and Tuber go way back. Last fall the relationship reached its peak when we spent four days in Piedmont, possibly the most underrated region in Italy for food. While in NYC, I always look forward to every opportunity for a taste during the fall season, often shelling out premium $$$$ for it. But I should probably give It a rest.
I always look for excuses to go to Eataly. Need wine for Thanksgiving… Eataly! Need fresh pasta.. Eataly. Need new light bulbs in the bathroom… you guessed it… hardware store… on the way to Eataly. Yes its touristy, crowded and a little expensive, but in this case all for good and valid reason. I can spend hours there, Sunday Football hours! And I normally do. I dont need to “brave the tourists”, partly because I’m used to the scene and partly because I dont really feel like I’m braving anyone. If anything it feels like a good spot for people watching, although my eyes are normally glued to the shelves.
Last Sunday also happened to be “Truffle Day”, a collaboration with our local truffle tzar Urbani. Urbani, in addition to bringing in Truffles from Umbria, makes truffle sauces, truffle butter, truffle perfume (on my Santa list), and anything and everything to do with truffles. If you are in the area of their headquarters on 60th and West End ave (11th ave), I suggest popping in for a quick look at their showroom where you can purchase any of their products including some nasty looking Tubers. Juts keep in mind the dry summer in Italy this year resulted in less and more expensive truffles this time around
Ok, confession time, I dont really call them Tuber Magnatum Pico, but I feel like I should. I was just talking to friends the other day about ear, nose and throat doctors, and that they dont have more of a proper name like Gynecologist. As if they simply ran out of “ologists” when they got to those parts of the body. Well, it turns out they didnt. “Otolaryngologist” is the proper name, so you can see why no one calls them Otolaryngologists. No one can.
Anyway, so Sunday off I go to Eataly for a quick Salumi and wine run, and before you knew it, I’m asking a waiter wearing white gloves to turn the truffle around so I could take a better shot of it during a $140 solo truffle lunch. It was like sending an alcoholic to the local bar for diapers. I even left without buying any salumi because they put the truffle stand right next to the salumi/cheese making me miss it and forget all about it. I spent a good 20 minutes looking and talking at these babies until the truffle lady called security. As for the lunch, this was at Pranzo (meaning “lunch”), Eataly’s lunch only restaurant in association with its cooking school. Lets just say, after this Carne Cruda and pasta, both with four grams of shavings each, a little more schooling is in order (hence the title). But bashing is not the goal of this post. The goal is to celebrate everything Eataly and Italy
Some new and old faves:
Anellini Caramel biscuits – Perfecto with tea. I will be abusing these all winter
Venchi Chocolates – Those are the chocolates you’ll see sold by the pound by the sweets counter. Anythig dark and hazelnutty especially good. Expensive for good reason, just like all the rest of the Piedmontese sweets. And ye, just about half of the chocolates you’ll see over the store come from Piedmont
Truffle sauces – Especially the mushroom/truffle stuff from Urbani, Like Pasta cologne
Fresh pasta – mainly Agnolotti dal Plin which I make with.. you guessed it.. truffle butter
Re Ale Extra Beer – Love the Italian craft beer here and this is my favorite. Fantastically hoppy, citrusy IPA.
Pure Thai Cookhouse – Among the plethora of Thai eateries flooding 9th avenue, Pure Thai stands out (and so will you for a while unless you arrive early or in off hours). It was built to resemble a Shophouse in Thailand in order to give you a taste of the Thai food culture. The menu doesn’t feature the usual curry suspects, but more daring dishes that represent various regions of Thailand. E.g. The Jungle fried rice, the simple Ratchaburi with homemade dry noodles, crab and pork, and the more intense Wok Curry Paste with Pork. The lone dessert, pumpkin custard with coconut sticky rice wrapped inside a banana leaf always a recipe for a full blown attack. 766 9th (51/52)
Pure Thai Pumpkin
Pam Real Thai – If you are looking for chandeliers, table cloth, and a little bench for your man purse, you will not find it here. Though “Room Service” another Thai player nearby does have some of these things including nice chandeliers. The minimalist décor is the same as it was 10-15 years ago, and so is the menu. But if you are a fan of flavor and dont care about anything else, this is the place for you. The sick Oxtail soup is reason enough to go, and just about everything else I ever had here is made with a lot of love. Try the Pad Kra Prow (with shrimp), Seafood Kee Mao, Pad Prik Khing, and the terrific Khao Soi. The menu size is intimidating, so ask away if not sure. And the $2 Thai Ice Teas help combat the occasional hefty spice levels. 404 W 49th St (off 9th)
Pam Real Oxtail Soup
Larb Ubol – In the last several years, we’ve seen a slew of eateries open, specializing in Isan cooking. First there was Zabb Elee who intorduced the bold Northeastern flavors to us, until they gave birth to Larb Ubol. Don’t expect anything more than a bookstore café type décor (notice a trend here?). I bike here sweating the heavy traffic in order to sweat some more with dishes such as the peppercorn heavy Pad Ped Moo Krob and the Duck Larb. The spice levels approach “Thai Spicy” at times (but not quite there) so this is not for the faint of sugar seeking heart. But hey, this is after all Hell’s Kitchen. 480 Ninth Ave (37/36)
Larb Ubol Whole Fish
Kare Thai – You know what the next best thing to Thai food on 9th? Thai food on 10th! Yes, they are naturally spreading to 10th these days because they are running out of real estate. And among them all, little Kare is my favorite. I’ve had some pleasant meals here with co-workers though I mainly use it for a convenient quick Kee Mao grab on the go, always greeted by smiles. And the complimentary lunch special snack helps. You know what they say, “You give a smile, you get Shumai!”. 752 10th Ave (51/52)
Wondee Siam II – Back in the day, this was the place I frequented. And although I havent been in many years, I still have devoted co-workers that swear by this place. If you are new to Thai food, or simply want to taste something familiar that you are used to and enjoy back home like Green curry and Pad Thai, this may be the right place for you. 813 Ninth Ave (53/54)
Feels weird writing about steak after the horrific events in Paris. But life goes on.
Steak to me is like Family Guy. I enjoy it tremendously, but rarely seek it. I grill it at home, I order it when I feel like it, but rarely crave and go out of my way for it. Steakhouses in general are not part of my regular diet, and the vast majority of my steak intakes come from non-traditional steakhouses and elsewhere (Italian, French, American). But then, about once a year, I get to taste something like this, which makes me question my diet and our overall existence. I’m well overdue with this post since this particular piece of meat has been on my radar for a few years now. And for the same reason I dont record new Family Guy episodes, I’ve never actually made it to American Cut to have it. But I thought this was a post about Khe-Yo Ziggy. Liar!
American Cut is Marc Forgione’s steakhouse in Tribeca. Khe-Yo is its exotic, wild half sister. She sleeps naked, whistles at construction workers, and doesn’t come to company meetings on time. Khe-Yo is a collaboration of Forgione, another dude, and Laos born Soulayphet Schwader offering Laos inspired dishes (Essentially Thai on Crack). I’ve been to Khe-Yo before including four days after it opened in 2013, but this time I figured I’ll bring Mrs Ziggy for her first Khe-Yo experiences. However, things didn’t quite go as planned. They were better.
Before the waitress had a chance to tell us about today’s specials, I already knew that we were having the steak special. That’s because my sharp steak radar was able to pick up these words from the table nearby “Pastrami, rubbed, rib eye, hmmmm, yes, so good”. It sounded like what you normally hear at the other end of a sex line (I was told). The Ribe eye, rubbed with pastrami seasoning is after all, the Amarican Cut classic I keep hearing about. And it was as magnificent as I imagined. Expertly cooked, good size steak, that’s easily shareable between two ($56). The meat cant get much more tender for a rib eye, with perfectly rendered fat. The peppery pastrami crust is nicely charred and buttery. Its the perfect steak!
If you want a great steak you should probably go to American Cut. If you wan to experience the bold flavors of Laos, dont mind to get your hands dirty (or dont mind having your spouse feed you in public), and can handle some heat, than I highly recommend Khe-Yo. They start you off with a bang, the complimentary sticky rice with fiery “Bang Bang” sauce (lime, chili, fish sauce) that sets the tone for things to come. You eat that and much of the rest with your fingers. The smell for the next 10 hours is complimentary as well. Try the complex Jurgielewicz Duck Salad, the quail, and the crunchy coconut rice balls with sausages. I wish they would provide more sausages with that rice. And finish off with the apple crumb with pineapple and rum raisin ice cream. The whole meal is like Havah Nagila in your mouth!
Khe-Yo 157 Duane St $$$ Recommended Dishes: Jurgielewicz Duck Salad, quail, coconut rice, Rib Eye (if you lucky)
Watching Mocu-Mocu grow is like watching a child grow. I wasnt there during inception, but I watched the development for the next 9 months, and the rapid changes after birth. Its only been 5 months, but before you know it, you are standing there swooping three different bra sizes into that laundry basket. I watched them build a modern, casual, artsy Japanese eatery specializing in… stuff (more on that). I watched them move from front window ordering to a comfortable sit down surrounded by smiles. I watched them build the constantly changing menu that includes a la carte, sets, pictures, and more sets that mimic Japanese traditions. Its a work in progress, but a fun and most interesting one to follow.
Mocu Mocu, a dream come true for two Japanese sisters, sits in a rather odd location in Hell’s Kitchen (10th/51st). Unlike Tex-Mex El Original which opened around the same time one block over, Mocu employs no PR firms, and didnt spend any time on any hot lists. Scorecard so far: One visit to El Original, four to Mocu Mocu. El Original, the name, is actually a better fit for Mocu Mocu since there’s nothing like it in the area and perhaps in the entire city. A true original
So what’s the specialty here? Well, some may say things that end with “yaki”. Takoyaki, doughy octopus balls, come topped with a posse of dancing bonito flakes. Okonomiyaki, tasty veggie filled savory pancakes are used almost like sandwiches hugging chicken, pork belly or coconut shrimp. The chicken Okonomiyaki is in danger of becoming my regular. Then there’s the larger and messier Hiroshima style Okonomiyaki that comes with a dollop of cabbage and fried noodles. And while consuming all these Yakis, you get brainwashed via the videos in the front into ordering perhaps the tastiest yaki of all, the Obanyaki. A gorgeous, not too sweet, dessert pastry filled with various “half and half” combinations. The one I tasted, titled Matcha de Bosco (should come with its own Reggaeton soundtrack) was filled with Matcha Cream and Mixed Berries.
There are six sets on the current menu featuring various combinations, and in true Japanese traditions (I’m told) all the items arrive at the same time. Along with your favorite “yaki” it may include seasonal Oshinko (pickled veggies, normally cabbage), salads, and unique soups like Chilled Edamame Vichyssoise with dried Edamame which I havent tried yet. Though I did have and enjoyed the minestrone like white bean and Sausage Miso. This most unusual miso is a product of Hiroko Shimbo, an acclaimed cookbook author that served as Mocu’s consultant. And if none of this works for you, there are always wings. Quite satisfying ones actually
In this corner of Hell’s Kitchen where tourists and high-heeled office workers are at the minimum, you either need to offer something cheap for the children walking from school or interesting one-off flavors that arent easily found anywhere. Totto Ramen around the corner is a good example. While there’s nothing unique about Ramen in NYC these days, there’s nothing like it in the immediate area. Mocu Mocu takes it even further as there may not be anything like it in the entire city. Go!
Mocu-Mocu 746 10th Ave $$ Recommended Dishes: Soups, wings, and everything that ends with Yaki
I cringe sometimes when I read things I wrote over 3 years ago. I had to take an entire paragraph about Cialis, yes Cialis, from this post because its not very relevant or funny today. But here it is.. an oldie but.. Ok, just an oldie. Z-List staple Jun-Men is clicking on all cylinders, and established itself as one of the most important Chelsea neighborhood hangouts. Well, you cant hang out for too long as the place is very small and waits can stretch to the corner. But this is the only place I know where you add yourself to the list on the ipad in the front, where you can see exactly how many are ahead of you. A good spot to go before Hudson Yards if you want to eat “local”
The Ramen here settled down to a silky smooth broth, losing, in a good way, some of that heaviness felt sometimes here. The Spicy Miso is the way to go on a cooler day. The signature Uni Mushroom “Mazemen” (brothless ramen) is still the same feel good creamy pasta goodness I crave every time I’m here, even though it includes truffle oil. Fake truffle flavoring rarely works but it does no harm here. The wings I noticed later in the afternoon can get a bit greasier but that soy makes up for it big time. And on a recent visit I was impressed by the elaborated quinoa based poke bowl (below). What happened? I simply woke up that day realizing I ate nothing but pizza, pastas, and burgers for 5 days.
October 28th, 2015 Post:
The historic Ramen attack of the 21st century has been in full swing for a while now in Hell’s Kitchen, lower Manhattan, Queens, and parts of Brooklyn. And it has now infiltrated the belly, the pork belly of NYC if you will, Chelsea. This is a fierce, no prisoners, noodle assault on a city already overrun. Even those who dont specialize in Ramen succumb eventually and add it to the name (Puff Cha Ramen specializes in Thai curry Puffs, started as just Puff Cha. Kung Fu Little Steamed Buns Ramen specializes in steamed buns). Its just a matter of time until this site is changed to Eating Ramen With Ziggy to boost more eye balls. EWZ interns researchers report the Staten Island is the only place in NYC where 9 out 10 residents react with a “You mean like.. instant?” when asked for local Ramen advice. The 10th will go “fughetaboutit” and direct you to his favorite eyetalian.
Outside Jun-Men looks like a swanky nail spa, especially when someone sits by the door facing the right bar/reception. Inside however, Jun-Men looks like a swanky nail spa with an open kitchen. Plenty of Instagram friendly natural light, communal table in the middle provide nice space for you and your phone, and then there’s counter seating facing a small army of pork belly torcherers. Drinks, apps, four Ramen items (one not really ramen, but more on that later), and two desserts are all listed on one idiot proof page. Considering the place is new, the kitchen seems to run things smoothly. On our last visit, the main (Ramen) came a few minutes after the half finished appetizer, and we were given the boot (check) before we were asked if we want dessert or anything else. But those are minor quibbles that will be corrected, if not soon, as soon as the first angry Yelpers mention it.
In this Ramen infested city, blogging about ramen is no longer considered sexy. While there’s definitely some fine Ramen at Jun-Men, the sexiness lies in the other dishes, one of which is pasta disguised as Ramen. The Uni Mushroom Mazemen may be considered dry even for Mazemen standards. Its a well crafted Pasta with mushrooms, salty pancetta, Porcini butter and truffle oil. The lower quality uni is just there for Instagram. I would order it with or without the uni. The tasty Kimchi Ramen featured unramen like juicy bits of pork shoulder, along with a solid broth. On the other hand, the Pork Bone on the last visit wasnt nearly as good. A bit too rich, too funky, too fatty chashu for my taste. The fried rice even with the too sweet Chinese sausage was one of the best fried rice in recent memory (7 days give or take), and priced very well considering the the crazy fried rice prices out there. The good looking wings will be next on the agenda, and maybe even some Matcha flavored cheesecake. Go!
Jun-Men Ramen
249 Ninth Ave (25/26), Chelsea
Rating: 2 Z’s (out of 4)
Stars range from Good to Exceptional. Simple as that
Recommended Dishes: Fried Rice, wings, Uni Mushroom, Kimchi Ramen, Spicy Miso, Poke Bowl
Random EWZ food news, announcements, and other nonsense
Ziggy gains weight! This means two health plays entering the Hell’s Kitchen Survival Guide. Fairly newish Reviver is a small take-out fast food spot on 8th ave with a varied health, gluten-free conscious menu. And Mooncake Foods, a chainlet with three locations offering various Asian inspired meals like tuna, salmon over rice, and some excellent soups I’ve been enjoying the last few years. Perhaps I should finally join… what’s that thing called… Googling… a Gym (stop laughing family, friends). The closest thing to a gym in my life was when Mrs Z brought me the wrong deodorant one day, just so I could come home from work a little stinky, or manly, as if I’m coming from the gym.
Mark the date. The Ziggat 50 is coming, December 9th! The Ziggat 50 (will be changed to the Ziggy 50 once I get sued) will feature Ziggy’s favorite $10-100 meals in NYC. This means it will feature places that are generally less than $100 per person (no Marea, Ko, etc), and more than $10 person (no pizza slices, cheap tacos, etc). A list for the rest of us 99%.
Capizzi Pizza
Staten Island Pizza – I’ve always said that the only reason to cross bridges to Staten Island is for Sri-Lankan. Well, I’ve been saying that for years while secretly enjoying some amazing pizza in SI as of late. Joe & Pats, Giove, Nonna’s, Lee’s Tavern, the inventor of the bar pizza, and of course the classic, always busy Denino’s. Check out this recently produced One Minute Meal on Denino’s. And in a couple of weeks there will be another big name joining the gamg, Capizzi of Hell’s Kitchen. Owner Joe is no stranger to Staten Island. He’s converting his old classic NY-American La Bella on Hylan blvd, promising to dish out pizzas just like in Ziggy fave Capizzi.
Bruno Pizza – one of my favorite new restaurants of the year is getting a lot of attention as of late. Pete Wells gave it zero stars in his somewhat bizarre, disgruntled yelp style review. The attack on hype machines along with other things has instigated heated discussions on Chowhound, and hype praising articles. Try it yourself, order what I recommend, and judge for yourself.
Hell’s Kitchen Food Tour is closed for the season, and maybe for good. I’ve met so many great people during the last few years, some of whom are now friends. On a recent tour with a photographer I brought my big boy camera as well for an upcoming blog post detailing the entire tour. Stay tuned for that one. I haven’t made up my mind if this is something I want to continue doing next year
On the way to Staten Island’s Sri Lankan gem San Rasa the other day, I felt a little uneasy. I was quickly losing yet another argument in my head. I’m bringing another couple with me and I don’t have reservations on a Saturday night. That is because the young man on the phone (I feel a little old today) told me I don’t need to make reservations. And not because he knew who I was! “Are you sure? Its Saturday, prime time and its the four of us”. Emphasizing on the number 4 which can be very large on a Saturday night across the pond. “Yes, I’m sure sir. You don’t need reservations”. Fine! But if we come in to a full house and we don’t get a table.. oooh boy.. watch out. Sentences that begin with F words like “Forget this, we are going to Lakruwana ” will be flying out the door. Forgetting to take the young man’s name however was the mistake that lead to losing the argument in my head.
Without upsetting too many people, San Rasa is simply too far for most folks who appreciate good food. There are plenty of people on the island of Staten that appreciate good food, but not nearly enough to fill a quarter of San Rasa on a Saturday night. Staten Island doesn’t deserve and cant really appreciate something like this. Give em a buzzy American Italian trattoria, a pizzeria that serves chicken parm, a few Russians to satisfy the Russian communities, a few glorifies diners like Z-one, Z-two, [Name any chain], and the residents are more than satisfied. Like any residents in the burbs would I should add. For most residents the ferry area is quite a schlep (30-40 mins for many) and the true island gems like Sri Lankan Lakruwana, San Rasa, New Asha, and other gems like Enoteca Maria are unrecognizable names. The ferry area is almost like a Manhattan extension, albeit too far and arguably not interesting enough for Manhattanites.
But dinner is when the fun really starts. San Rasa turns out is under new management and new chef. While the empty house did not exactly look promising, the result was best San Rasa ever. Meet chef Lalith (one name like Madonna) who has taken the great chef Sanjay lead, adding his own bolder, spicier spin. You feel it right off the bat with the Mulligatawny soup. Unlike the prior Mulligatawny, this one is a little creamier, nuttier, spicier, and simply has more oomph. Thats the only starter I recommend. Save room for the goodies to come. Like the Lamprie, an old dutch colony classic that is the one must get here. The pictures here can only set the bar low, or prevent you from ordering it altogether. But that would be a mistake. Proceed with the hoppers and egg hoppers (not available on this day) before hitting the “Ziggurat” shaped String Hopper Kottu, all with your choice of your favorite curry. And with that my friends I’m announcing the addition of “Ziggurat” to my vocabulary. A fittingly bizarre combination of Ziggy and Borat (for those that know me too well).
Eating With Ziggy 