Ramen Kuidouraku/Bibim Bar

Cuisine: Noodle Shop/Korean
Location: 141 1st Ave b/w 9th St & St Marks Pl
Phone #: (212) 529 2746
Method: Eat In and Delivery
Price Range: $$
Food: A-
Value: A
Service/Atmosphere: B+
Overall Rating: A-

I figured it made sense to make this a combination review of these two places, since they are at the same address (you have to walk through Ramen Kuidouraku to get to Bibim Bar) and they share a kitchen. Ramen Kuidouraku used to be called Ramen Setagaya (which is a very successful ramen chain in Japan) but once the licensing contract expired with their corporate parents earlier this year, the owners opted not to renew and just change their name. This was a shrewd move since they already have all the info they needed in terms of recipes and ingredients, and they can save the money in licensing fees they would have otherwise spent. The reputation of this place is already there so I don't think the name change should effect their business. For those of you who crave original Ramen Setagaya, they still have one location left in NYC on St Marks Pl b/w 2nd & 3rd Ave.

What I Liked
True to its namesake, the bibimbap at Bibim Bar is truly remarkable. If you are not familiar with bibimbap, it is not only a really fun word to say, but it's also the most popular Korean dish. "Bibim" means mixed in Korean and "bap" means rice, but that only begins to describe it. It is typically served on a hot stone bowl and consists of white rice, whichever meat you decide to order, a fried egg over-easy and sautéed assorted veggies. I'm sure you're thinking after reading that sentence: "did you just say that Bibim Bar serves bibimbap with a fried egg over-easy on top?" The answer to your question is an enthusiastic "yes!" Break the egg with your chopsticks and watch as the yolk soaks the rest of the ingredients in this delightful dish. If you are eating at Bibim Bar (as opposed to having it delivered), once the sizzling hot stone bowl arrives at your table, you will have the joy of witnessing the rice and egg crackle as it continues to cook as you eat it. I can't say enough about the incredible consistency and crispiness of the rice due to it being cooked right in front of you and mixing with the yolk. As far as choices of meat, I would recommend either getting the Spicy Pork ($10.95) or Marinated Beef Bulgogi ($10.95), but I'm sure you can't go wrong (they even have mixed veggie or tofu varieties) . Pour on the spicy Korean Chili Pepper Paste that comes with it and mix in some of the kimchi that's always included and you will simply not forget this experience. If bibimbap sounds too crazy for you, the Marinated Beef Bulgogi ($11.50) entree is a bit plainer, but also fantastic. The tender beef is cooked over a bed of rice and with that chili pepper paste you are going to love it.

The ramen at Ramen Kuidouraku is also pretty special. For what it's worth, it was actually dubbed the #1 ramen in NYC by the Rameniac, narrowly beating out Ippudo and Minca (Momofuku Noodle is way down at #7 according to that list). Although I can't say I agree that it's the best in the city (in my opinion Ippudo and Momofuku are better), this variety of ramen is unique in its own way and definitely packs a huge flavor punch. The Shio ($9.50) is their signature ramen (salt flavor broth) and is fantastic, especially if you add in some of the aforementioned chili paste. Also great is the Syo-yu ($10) which contains mostly the same ingredients as the Shio (pork, egg, seawee and, bamboo shoots) but contains a soy flavored broth.

In terms of app's, the Oyako-don ($4.50) is a must-have on any visit to this spot. It is basically a bowl of rice with ground up "natural salt taste" chicken, with an organic egg cooked into the rice. If you again add some of that chili paste, you will not believe your taste buds. Equally incredible is the Kimchi Pancake ($7), which is a pan-fried egg and flour based pancake with kimchi mixed in. Ridiculously good! Also keep in mind that they have a very limited lunch menu (although they reduce all the prices by $1-$2, which is cool).

What Could Use Work
I wasn't the biggest fan of the Shio Tsuke-men Oomori ($11.50), which is extra cold noodles with pork and seaweed in a sweet & sour broth. It was somewhat tasty, but there just were too few ingredients and flavor combinations when compared to the other amazing dishes at this establishment. The Gyoza ($4.50) also was nothing special, save the stomach space for the better stuff noted above and below.

Killed It!
The Fried Chicken (drumsticks $5/3 or wings $5/6) at Bibim Bar is some of the best I've tried, even better than at the famous Boka/Bonchon Korean Fried Chicken franchises around the city. You can order either Spicy or Soy Garlic flavor and both are fantastic; it has signature Korean style perfectly crispy skin and is just exploding with flavor. It's also a pretty damn good deal.
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Motorino

Cuisine: Pizza
Location: 349 E 12th St b/w 1st & 2nd Ave or 319 Graham Ave @ Devoe St
Phone #: (212) 777 2644 or (718) 599 8899
Method: Eat In and Delivery
Price Range: $$$
Food: A-
Value: C
Service/Atmosphere: B+
Overall Rating: B

As you might have noticed from the first Heady Eats poll (what was your favorite trend this year?), Neapolitan pizza is all the rage lately. Over the past few years there have been a plethora of new spots which serve these wood-fired pies, and they are typically quite proud of their "no slices" motto. You need to sit down and order from a waitress at these types of places and the pies are meant to be eaten one per person (no waiting in line and ordering a slice at the counter from the pizza guy). The restaurant that fits into this category with perhaps the most buzz is Motorino, which was declared "the city's best pizza" in the all important New York Times review and the city's "best new pizzeria" in the 2010 Eat Out Awards by Time Out New York. These are some powerful accolades, and the pizza is absolutely spectacular, but I do have a few gripes.

What I Liked
Let me be clear, the pizza is delicious at Motorino. I have never been to the BK location, but I ate at the Manhattan location and I've had it delivered a few times, and it did not disappoint. You can taste the super high quality of the bread and all the ingredients, no matter which variety of pie you choose. The pies are approximately 12" (4 pretty small slices, about 4-5 bites each) and the crust is literally paper thin. The perimeter of the crust is the most unique part about these pies: it is extremely airy and puffy; it is a really nice touch, especially when compared to the rest of the slice which are incredibly thin. One problem with trying to eat at Motorino is that it is a very small place (less than 10 tables all together) so there is usually a wait. Once you are seated I found it to be somewhat cramped since waiters do need to make their way around the tables and the space is pretty small. They also do not serve liquor, only beer and wine, so plan accordingly. I found the pies to be just as good when delivered as far as retaining their freshness and flavor.

The Margherita ($14) pie has really tasty buffalo milk mozzarella on a thin layer of sweet tomato sauce. Margherita slices are always a good test of a pizza place (Neapolitan or regular) to determine the true taste quality without all the fancy toppings that can distract an eater from a pie's true colors. Although the Margherita was very good at Motorino, it wasn't the best I've had and I was truly disappointed with the fact that I basically just paid $14 for 2 large slices. Without the toppings, a single pie is just not that substantial as far as size goes, and something was missing as far as the flavor. The Cremini & Spicy Sausage ($17) pie was better, not only because it has fantastic sausage and smoked Scamorzza on it, but also because I liked the consistency of it better than the Margherita, probably due to it having more ingredients to hold it all together (the Cremini mushrooms had a strong flavor and it also has Pecorino cheese, garlic and thyme complimenting it as well).

What Could Use Work
The Fire Roasted Mortadella Antipasti ($7) was pretty plain; not sure what I was expecting when I ordered it, but what came out was a pretty skimpy salad with not so special ingredients. Instead of wasting time with the Antipasti items, perhaps it would make the most sense to order 3 pies for 2 people to ensure you fill up (if there's extra just take it home or if it was delivered then just refrigerate it to eat for your daily pizza breakfast the next morning). As a follow up to that statement, the only other thing I'll mention in this section is the cost. It is just a very expensive place for the amount of food you receive. At other Neapolitan places I've tried such as Luzzo's or Pulino's (reviews forthcoming), you might pay the same or even more per pie as Motorino, but at those places you are simply getting much more food. As mentioned above, the pies at Motorino are basically the equivalent of 2 large slices at a "by the slice" place, so that fact is tough to accept when you are paying up to $17/pie (by this metric the equivalent of $8.50/slice). Savor every bite!

Killed It!
Despite the pools of grease that collect in the middle, I love the Soppressata Piccante ($16) pie. There is a generous serving of small slices of Soppressata scattered throughout the pie, and the spiciness of the meat mixed with the mozzarella, garlic, chili and oregano is just spectacular. I am ashamed to admit that I have yet to try the Brussel Sprout ($15) pie at Motorino, which has smoked Pancetta, garlic and Pecorino cheese on it. Based on my newfound love affair with brussel sprouts (see my Westville East review), I can easily see that pie ending up in this section as well once I get a chance to try it out. Stay tuned for that. To sum things up, Motorino is definitely recommended since the quality of the pies are out of this world, but be prepared to not be completely full at the end of your meal as you stare at the bill wondering how you could have possibly just spent that much on a few slices of pizza.
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Hill Country BBQ

Cuisine: Barbecue
Location: 30 W 26th St b/w Broadway & Madison Ave
Phone #: (212) 255 4544
Method: Eat In
Price Range: $$
Food: B+
Value: B+
Service/Atmosphere: A-
Overall Rating: B+

Hill Country BBQ is a very cool eating experience that I would recommend everyone try at least once (if not for the food alone than moreso for the memories). Its food and layout aims to emulate that of a place called Kreuz Market in Lockhart, Texas, which is apparently the barbecue capital of the world. Now, let me clarify what I mean when I refer to the Hill Country layout: much like Katz's Deli (review forthcoming), when you walk in you are given a blank ticket. After finding a few open spots at a picnic table in the seating area to plop down your stuff and order drinks from the waitress (drinks are the only thing brought to your table), you take your ticket and wait in line at the meat counter. Once you get to the front of the line, you tell the butcher exactly what you want (counter-style by the pound). The butcher then slices everything fresh, marks down what you ordered on your ticket and wraps everything up in butcher paper for you to haul back to your table. The sides are served in 8, 16 or 32oz containers from a separate counter and the desserts are at a separate counter as well. Once you have finished all of your ordering, you can finally bring everything back to your table and begin your feast. As you exit the restaurant, you have no choice but to pass by the cash register, where you are asked for your ticket and billed accordingly. It may seem like somewhat of an ordeal to go through to get your food, but you'll realize it pays off once you take your first bite.

What I Liked
First and foremost I am a big fan of the layout I just described. It creates a dynamic environment with everyone walking around deciding what they want and I think it makes the eating experience that much more fun. As far as the food itself goes, it is excellent barbecue. If this is authentic, Texas style BBQ, then I guess Texas style barbecue is an extremely distinctive, smoky, dry rub flavor (according to their website, all their meat is "smoked low and slow over Texas post oak"). My personal preference is to have my barbecue somewhat saucy, so if you are anything like me then you will probably need to add a generous dose of BBQ sauce and/or hot sauce to whatever meat ends up on your tray.

The Lean Brisket ($19.50/lb) at Hill Country is ridiculously tender and flavorful, especially when you add the aforementioned sauces to compliment the dry rub. The Pork Spare Ribs ($12/lb) are also super tender and the meat falls right off the bone as you take each bite. True to their roots, Hill Country serves every order of meat with a serving of Texas Toast as well as Saltine crackers. I love putting some of the brisket meat and rib meat on the bread, slathering on some BBQ and hot sauce and as I take each succulent bite hoping it never ends. The last items worth mentioning here are the Longhorn Cheddar Mac & Cheese, which is super thick and cheesy, and the Chili (both are $5.50/8oz, $10.50/16oz, $20/32oz), which is spicy and meaty (but not excessively thick or heavy) . If you're feeling gluttonous try heaping some mac and cheese or chili (or both) onto your brisket/rib open faced sandwich.

If you're feeling overwhelmed about what to order, try the Pitmaster's combo ($25). It is a pretty good deal and is a good way to try out a bunch of different menu items (it includes 4 different meats and your choice of 2 sides). If you've somehow become extra hungry (and you're feeling like embarking on your own Man Vs Food challenge), then try your best to consume the "Feed Your Face Challenge." If you finish all 3 pounds of meat (3/4lb each of Lean Brisket, Moist Brisket, Beef Shoulder & Prime Rib) as well as two 16oz sides, a cupcake and 32oz soft drink in less than an hour, then you won't have to pay the $85 bill. If you (more likely) can't finish it all, then make sure you settle up on your way out (and tip your server accordingly). Good luck taking it all down!

What Could Use Work
Although it is tough when comparing to the best item on the menu (more on that below), it is hard to overlook how dry and disappointing the Original Kreuz Market Sausages ($6.00 for a 1/3 lb link) were. Not only was the taste not there, the consistency was also bordering on gross (both times I tried them). Other than the Mac & Cheese and Chili, I wasn't too fond of any of the other sides, least of all the Hot German Potatoes ($4.50/8oz, $8.50/16oz, $16/32oz) which were pretty mushy and tasteless. Unfortunately I must put two of the meat choices in this section as well, because both the Beef Back Ribs ($11.75/lb) and the Moist Brisket ($22/lb) are ridiculously fatty and just not my style. As far as brisket and ribs go at Hill Country, stick with the Lean Brisket and Pork Spare Ribs.

Killed It!
In my opinion it is imperative to always order at least one Jalapeño Cheese Kreuz Market Sausage ($6.50 for a 1/3 lb link), or if you have room you should get a few links (or as they call them "rings"). Instead of trying to vary it up and also ordering one of the Originals, I would recommend just ordering extra Jalapeño sausages instead. They're that good (and the Originals are that average). These Sausages are the only meat items on the menu that are imported directly from Kreuz's in Texas. As their name suggests, these sausages are deliciously cheesy and spicy, while also being tender and a bit crispy when you first bite in.
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Momofuku Ssam Bar

Cuisine: Korean/Asian Fusion
Location: 207 2nd Ave b/w 12th & 13th St
Phone #: (212) 254 3500
Method: Eat-in
Price Range: $$$
Food: A-
Value: A-
Service/Atmosphere: A
Overall Rating: A-

If you read this blog then you are already well aware of my unhealthy obsession with all things Momofuku. So far I have only had the pleasure of trying 3 out of David Chang's 5 restaurants in NYC. I have already written about Noodle Bar and Milk Bar, so I think it is finally time to give Ssam Bar a review. It's fresh on my mind (and tongue) because last night 8 friends and I consumed the legendary, massive Bo Ssam feast (more on that later). The menu at Ssam changes depending on whether you are there for lunch, dinner or latenight. It is actually a great place to go for lunch, since they have the epic BBQ Rib Sandwich (which makes a great lunch on its own) and if you're feeling ambitious they have a lunch-only Prix Fix menu for $25/person which includes an app, entree and dessert.

What I Liked
Much like David Chang's other restaurants, you pretty much can't go wrong when ordering at Ssam. Ssam has a pretty small menu (although a bit larger than Noodle) which primarily features pork and fish. In terms of app's, they (of course) serve the famous Steamed Buns ($9/2) which are better described in my Momofuku Noodle review. The Bread & Butter ($8) is crispy bread with sea salt butter and whipped lardo and is really good, but it seems a bit expensive for an item that is served for free at most restaurants. The BBQ Rib Sandwich ($12) is succulent ribmeat on Italian bread with cole slaw. Add some Sarachi and it is truly delicious. The Benton's Ham ($11) is tender ham served on a platter with a smoky sauce (they also serve 3 other types of Country Ham which I'm sure are great as well). I'm sure everything from the Raw Bar is top notch, but I've only tried the melt-in-your-mouth Cured Hamachi ($16) which was served with edamame and horseradish sauce.

Much like the Fried Chicken special at Momofuku Noodle, Ssam Bar offers the Bo Ssam special ($200). You need to go through the same reservation process (typically 3-4 weeks advance notice) and have a party of 6-12 people to chow down on this giant pork shoulder. It comes with a dozen oysters, lettuce wraps, rice, ginger scallion sauce, 2 types of kimchi and this spicy korean BBQ sauce. Your friendly server will be happy to explain that you should create a lettuce sandwich with whichever sauces you feel like and be sure to put an oyster in for an interesting touch. The dish comes with tongs and you will quickly see that all it takes is a soft touch to the pork and the meat comes right off. Put it on a bed of rice on top of the lettuce with Sarachi, BBQ, ginger scallion, kimchi and an oyster and you will not believe your taste buds. This pork is absolutely incredible and has to be tasted to be believed. Last thing I'll mention on this is the crispiness of the skin. It is almost comparable to Porchetta (review forthcoming) in that regard. Definitely go through the rez process and try the Bo Ssam with your favorite 7 peeps next chance you get.

It pains to me to admit that I have found the rest of the Large Dishes at Ssam to be not as special as what I'm used to at Momofuku restaurants. I've tried the Pork Shoulder Steak ($23), Braised Brisket ($23) and Spanish Mackerel ($19) and I wasn't blown away by them. In my opinion, you can stick with the great app's and the dish noted below, but if you need to venture out or change things up there's nothing wrong with these entrees...they're just not as unique .

The Grapefruit Cream Pie and Thai Ice Tea Parfait are both really good, but I would recommend saving your dessert appetite for Milk Bar, which is not only right next door but you can go there through a passage in the back without even leaving the restaurant.

What Could Use Work
Although those last 3 Large Dishes I mentioned were nothing special, I still wouldn't put them in this section. The only thing I could think of to relegate to this section is the Seasonal Pickles ($8). These were different types of pickled veggies and were kind of dry.

Killed It!
In my opinion, other than the Bo Ssam, the star of the show at Ssam Bar is the Spicy Pork Sausage & Rice Cakes ($18). If it's your first time going to Ssam, I would recommend sticking with pork buns, BBQ rib sandwiches and this dish. This comes with chinese broccoli and crispy shallots, and the combination of all the textures and flavors is just spectacular. Once you finish off all the crispy rice cakes (same as the ones in the Roasted Rice Cakes app at Noodle Bar), you will be left with a soup of sausage, chinese broccoli and shallots; you can add some Sarachi and take down the remains with the ramen spoon they include. It doesn't get much better than that as far as eating experiences go.
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Artichoke

Cuisine: Pizza
Location: 328 E 14th St b/w 1st & 2nd Ave

Phone #: (212) 228 2004
Method(s): Eat in & Take-Out
Price Range: $
Food: A-
Value: A
Service/Atmosphere: B-
Overall Rating: B+

I figured it was about time I reviewed the famous Artichoke Pizza, which has got to be one of the most talked about pizza places in NYC of the past few years. Although the focus of this attention has typically been on the high quality and unique nature of the pizza, a significant amount of controversy has arisen due to the way they handle their operations. I stop by here sometimes on off hours when there is no line, but more often than not if you pass Artichoke you will see a long line out the door that curves down 14th St for a bit. The line wouldn't be quite as frustrating if, when you finally made it to the front, you saw that the crew inside was working their asses off and churning out slice after slice to hungry patrons. This is certainly not the case. What you are finally greeted to once you make it inside is typically 1-2 guys toward the back preparing the pies and 1 guy behind the counter running things. Rather than having hot pies ready and just giving out the slices as they are ordered like other busy pizza places do, he takes the orders 1 by 1 and puts the slices into the oven as they are ordered. Then you have to stand cramped around the counter for literally 10 minutes until the slices come out. Not an enjoyable experience. I understand that this practice ensures that each slice is piping hot as it is given to the customer, but if you have a line of 25 or more people wrapping around the block and you only have 4 different types of pizza, I think it juuuust might make sense to have at least the 2 most popular pipes ready to go (probably Artichoke and Margarita). ANYWAY, enough of that frustration because the pizza truly is remarkable and one-of-a-kind.

What I Liked
In terms of taste alone, Artichoke lives up to the hype. Their Artichoke pizza is one of the most unique pies I have ever tasted ($4/slice, $26/pie). The best way to describe it would be to imagine your favorite creamy spinach & artichoke dip, baked onto a thick pizza crust with a few cheeses, and somehow staying in place (although be warned that the slices are definitely a mess). Every bite you have you will wonder how they made it taste quite so good (whether you are sober or drunk). It is truly the perfect mix of cheesiness, creaminess and crustiness. The only problem I have with these slices is the havoc they wreak on my stomach. I learned my lesson the most recent time when, for the 4th time in a row, I had extreme pain from eating this creamy, incredible tasting pizza. Never again! Obviously, many people eat these slices without having this painful experience, but it is my duty to pass along my experiences.

The Crabmeat slices ($4/slice, $28/pie) are also worth mentioning. The succulent crab is cooked with cheese onto their delicious bread and it is fantastic. I know the prices must seem high so far ($4/slice is very high), but both of these types of pretty damn filling, especially the Artichoke (1 Artichoke slice is more than enough to fill most people up).

One very cool feature of Artichoke that many people are not aware of is that they serve beer. They will happily fill you up a 32 ounce Styrofoam cup of Bud Light for $5.50. Much like The Turkey's Nest in Brooklyn, they will then put a cover on the cup and stick a straw in, effectively giving you a beer to go (or to drink while you stand there and wait for your slice to come out). What a great service to offer.

What Could Use Work
I am a big fan of all 4 types of pizza they have (although as I mentioned I have sworn off the Artichoke slice for good), so the only point I would make in this section is to complain again about the long waits. The last thing I'l say about it is this: if you are in the neighborhood late-night you will always find a long line at Artichoke. In my opinion, these people are suckers to waste their valuable intoxicated time waiting in a long line for food. If you'd like another option, I'd recommend going around the corner to Vinny Vincenz on 1st Ave just south of 14th St. Although their slices aren't as unique or large as those at Artichoke, they are still excellent and you will savor those 30 minutes that you can spend sitting at their tables inside instead of waiting in line. I think Vinny Vincenz should start a pizza war by hiring a person just to stand around outside Artichoke during prime hours when the line is longest and shout "Come around the corner to Vinny Vincenz, great pizza, tables and no line!!!" It would not only be hilarious, but I also think they would be able to steal a decent amount of customers. If you are determined to get Artichoke, another way to beat the line is to call in a pick-up order, but they only offer that for full pies (and you can't order half artichoke/half margarita or they will laugh you off the phone, only full pies allowed).

Killed It!
Lately I have gravitated toward the Margarita ($3.50/slice, $20/pie) and Sicilian ($3.50/slice, $22/pie) pizzas at Artichoke. I find both of these types to be the most flavorful and least dangerous for my stomach at this point. The Margarita slice is actually pretty unique, with splotches of mozzarella cheese scattered throughout the marinara sauce on the slice and loads of Parmesan cheese cooked in there as well. Crispy and delicious. Same description basically goes for the Sicilian slice as well, except I actually like these most of all. They are smaller, easier to handle and typically crispier than all of the other slices. Although all 4 slices of pizza are guaranteed to be pretty greasy, you should definitely stop over at least once in your life to give it a try (and to check out their famous lines.

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Rai Rai Ken

Cuisine: Noodle Shop/Japanese
Location: 214 E 10th St b/w 1st & 2nd Ave
Phone #: (212) 477 7030
Method(s): Eat In & Delivery
Price Range: $
Food: B+
Value: A
Service/Atmosphere: A
Overall Rating: A-

Rai Rai Ken ("Rai Rai") is the ultimate tiny, no-frills noodle bar. I stumbled upon this place one day while walking around my neighborhood and I instantly fell in love. Not only does it fit my criteria of having very few menu items that are done to perfection, but it is also incredibly cheap and the service is fast and friendly. Also, they deliver!
Very unusual for a noodle shop. The only noodle shops I am familiar with that deliver ramen are Rai Rai and Ramen Setagaya (review forthcoming). I typically only include pictures of the actual food in my reviews, but in this case I wanted you to be able to visualize how tiny this place actually is. As you can see, there are only about 10-12 barstools up against the counter, and there is not much area behind the stools to squeeze past, so be prepared. In other words, don't show up to this place on a Friday night at 8PM with a party of 6. This is more of a spot to go quickly eat alone or with 1 other person, since it is tiny and always packed.

What I Liked
I have yet to order anything off of this tiny menu that I did not enjoy eating. In terms of appetizers, the Gyoza ($5) and Edamame ($3.50) are pretty standard but definitely tasty, the Fried Rice ($7.50/full or $5/half) is cooked with egg and is absolutely delicious (half order is recommended to share on the side with your ramen) the Kim-Chee ($3.50) is very good but incredibly spicy so be warned, the Miso Soup ($1.50) is quite unique in that they somehow make it spicy and add a ton of marinated scallions, and the Roast Pork ($5) is worth getting to start if you don't think you will have your fill of pork in your ramen. The pork app is served mixed up with the same marinated scallions that seem to be in many of the dishes at Rai Rai and they add an excellent crunchy element to the dish.

In terms of non-ramen entrees, there are only a few. I tried the Yaki Soba ($7.50) for the first time recently, which contains fried noodles with veggies & pork (no broth) and it really impressed me. If you're not in the mood for the hearty broth then I would recommend this dish. Another dish without broth (that they only serve from May-September) is one of their "summer items" called Hiyashi Chu-Ka ($9.50), which is made of chilled noodles mixed with chicken, cucumber, egg, sun dried tomatoes, seaweed, red ginger, lettuce, sesame seeds, scallions and mustard all topped with vinegar. They provide an interesting sauce on the side that you can pour on, and hot sauce is recommended as well. My roommate is head over heels in love with this dish. I liked it too, but I just have trouble enjoying anything as much as I enjoy ramen at noodle shops in general (especially at Rai Rai). The ginger and mustard are the overpowering flavors in this summer item and I would recommend it if you want something different. Believe it or not there is actually a vegetarian option on this menu: the Yasai Itame ($7.50) is simply sauteed veggies, but I actually enjoyed it when I tried it because they are well spiced and cooked to perfection.

As far as ramen goes, I have tried all 4 varieties that they offer at Rai Rai. My favorite is described below, but in a close 2nd place is the Miso Ramen ($9) which obviously has a miso (soy bean) based broth, with beansprout, cabbage, onions, crispy garlic, scallions and chicken. This ramen is stellar and is delicious from the first to the last bite, especially if you add in some hot sauce or chili powder. The crispy garlic is worth mentioning because it does add a lot of flavor and the crispiness is super interesting. The Shio Ramen ($8.50) has "house special seafood based" broth and the Curry Ramen ($8.50) has curry based broth, and both broths taste as you would imagine by the description (they each also contain roast pork, egg and scallions). Although I did not find either one to be spectacular, if seafood or curry are your thing then you can always try one of these to change things up if you get tired of the Shoyu or the Miso varieties.

What Could Use Work
My only complaint with Rai Rai (apart from the cramped quarters which I think give it a lot of its personality) is the quality of the ingredients. Although it is obviously priced accordingly, I have tasted a noticeable difference in the consistency and flavor of the noodles and pork when you compare Rai Rai with Ippudo or Momofuku Noodle. It just tastes a little cheaper and a bit less flavorful in my opinion....again, this is to be expected when you are paying close to half the price, but I thought it was worth pointing out.

Killed It!
The Shoyu Ramen ($8.50) is just epic. The first time I tried this ramen I thought I was slurping and moaning so loud with every bite that everyone in the restaurant must have heard me (although it's more likely that I was drowned out by all the other slurping and moaning going on at the place). If you haven't been to an authentic noodle shop before, it is perfectly customary for the customer to make a lot of noise while eating his or her food, and Rai Rai is no different in this respect. The Shoyu has a soy sauce based broth and, like the others, contains roast pork, boiled egg, fish cake, scallions and dried seaweed. Mix in hot sauce and/or chili powder and you are in flavor heaven.
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Baohaus

Cuisine: Taiwanese/Pork Buns
Location: 137Rivington St b/w Norfolk & Suffolk
Phone #: (646) 684 3835
Method(s): Eat In & Delivery
Price Range: $$
Food: A
Value: B+
Service/Atmosphere: B+
Overall Rating: B+

Bringing Taiwanese street food to the NYC masses, Eddie Huang opened Baohaus in the heart of the Lower East Side in January 2010 (no relation to Baoguette). I applaud the idea, because as I've mentioned elsewhere on this blog I love the type of place that has very few items on the menu, but does those items exceptionally well.
They serve "Bao's," which are soft buns with your choice of 4 different varieties of ingredients. While not being as large or tasty as those at Momofuku or Ippudo, I am a big fan of Bauhaus nonetheless, since they have some unique & delicious menu items (well-sourced too) and it's convenient for a quick bite. Eddie's next restaurant, Xiao Ye, opens this summer and I am already excited to try it out based on the menu that was released.

What I Liked
The menu is so small at Bauhaus that you can try almost everything on your first visit. The 3 different Bao's they have for us meat-eaters (they also have the Uncle Jesse which is tofu-based, but, as you might have guessed, I have yet to try it) are all served stuffed with crushed peanuts, cilantro, "haus" relish and Taiwanese red sugar, and are better described as follows: the Haus Bao ($4.50/bao) contains organic skirtsteak and is a very interesting & delicious flavor blast, the Chairman Bao ($4.00/bao) contains pork belly and is also quite good (and different due to the peanuts) but it is just not quite as tasty or substantial as its competitors, and the King Jaffe Joffer ($6.80/bao) contains high-end Imperial Wagyu skirtsteak and is definitely worth the steep price because it is some of the most succulent meat I have ever had in a bun. Also worth noting are the "Straight Frush" and the "Royal Frush" (both names already copyrighted) which are both funny to say when ordering and a pretty good deal (3 or 6 bun combination deals with peanuts or bao fries and a drink). The one thing I don't understand is why Eddie is so anti hot suace. My first time trying this place he happened to be working, and I asked him for some hot sauce for buns, and his response was "we don't do hot sauce here." I always like a good dose of Sarachi on my pork buns, but to each is own, I suppose. The Bao's are relatively spicy even without the hot sauce so consider yourself warned.

What Could Use Work
The Boiled Peanuts ($2.50) are definitely a one-of-a-kind flavor and (even though they are in this section) I would recommend trying them at least once. However, the vinegary, slimy flavor of the nuts just isn't for me. Perhaps it is an acquired taste because apparently this is a hugely popular snack all over Asia.

Killed It!
The Sweet Bao Fries ($3.50/bag) are far and away the most memorable item at Bauhaus. It's pretty simple: fried, sliced bao (the soft, doughy bread from the buns), showered in their incredibly sweet black sesame sauce. The sauce is condensed milk based and is as thick and rick as it sounds. Make sure you get a bag of these while at Bauhaus!
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Dinosaur BBQ

Cuisine: Barbecue
Location: 646 W 131st St @ 12th Avenue
Phone #: (212) 694 1777
Method(s): Eat In
Price Range: $$
Food: A
Value: A
Service/Atmosphere: A
Overall Rating: A

In terms of barbecue spots that I have had the pleasure of trying in NYC, I have yet to find a better place than Dinosaur BBQ. Originally started in upstate NY, with their only other locations in Rochester and Syracuse, this Harlem location is their closest restaurant within 250 miles of the City (in other words expect big crowds).
The place is worth visiting for their epic wings and fried green tomatoes alone (more on that below), but they also have great entrees and sides, not to mention their notorious Wango Tango and Garlic Chipotle BBQ/hot sauces, which you can take home for $5 a bottle if you haven't had enough by the time you're leaving. The atmosphere is always fun and rowdy, but the service stays great nonetheless. It's also important to mention that "Dino" is incredibly bicycle friendly, in that they have a bunch of outdoor tables with bike racks (which are always full of bicycles since it is located right along the West Side Highway bike path) and they even allow you to bring your bicycle into the bar area if you want to sit inside but don't want to risk getting your bike stolen outside. If you are a biker it is easy to stop by Dino, but if not I would definitely recommend taking the train up there next chance you get.

What I liked
In terms of appetizers, other than the below, if you're into Deviled Eggs ($3.95/3, $6.95/6, $10.95/12) then you should try the version that is served here, because it is a bit different (and better) than those I have tried in the past. As far as the sides go ($3.50 each), I typically stick with the Mac & Cheese, which is coated in breadcrumbs and delicious, and the Iceberg Wedge, which is awesome mostly because of their "house" dressing, which is the same as blue cheese mixed with wango tango BBQ sauce.....as crazy good as it sounds.

If you're going to Dino hungry then you're in the right place. I am always stuffed when I leave here. To maximize the variety of items you can try I would recommend ordering one of the combo meat plates. You choose between their sampler platters which contain any 2 or 3 of the following meats (you can't go wrong, they are all the epitome of amazing barbecue, especially the ribs and brisket): ribs, chicken, sausage links, texas beef brisket and barbecued pork. Prices range from $14-$17 for 2 meats and $18-$24 for 3 meats, so totally reasonable prices. Make sure you slather on your choice of BBQ or hot sauce. They have 4 flavors which vary in heat: the weakest is Honey BBQ (pretty plain BBQ sauce), Wango Tango is a little hotter than that (my 2nd favorite, BBQ sauce with a decent kick), Garlic Chipotle is spicy (my favorite, a cross between BBQ sauce and hot sauce) and Devil's Duel is super hot (closer to Habanero sauce, a bit too spicy for my taste).

I will only give one sandwich the honor of being mentioned as the headiest (although the Brisket Smothered ($8.95) and Pork-Sket ($13.50, brisket with pulled pork on top), are also unique and tasty), and it is the BBQ Brisket, Bacon & Swiss ($9.50). You just can't beat the combo of the tender Dino brisket with the saltiness of the bacon, topped off with the cheesiness of the swiss. Definitely order the fries on the side because those are crispy and well-spiced, as you would have imagined.

What Could Use Work
The Drunken Spicy Shrimp ($6.50/quarter pound, $12.95/half pound, $20.95/full pound) just left something to be desired. I have always been somewhat anti peel and eat shrimp out of principle. I find them to be too challenging and annoying to take the shells off, and there is too little payoff once you put in the work. The shrimps do have interesting spices, including my all-time favorite (Old Bay), but I would allocate your stomach space to the other items mentioned here if I were you.

Killed It!
The Jumbo Babecue Chicken Wings ($3.95/3, $6.95/6, $11.95/13) are the star of the show at Dino. I am officially annointing the Dino wings as the best wings I've ever had. Even though they aren't your traditional buffalo style wings in any sense of the style, these are massive and have a better flavor than any others I've had. I would recommend ordering half Garlic Chipotle and half Wango Tango, and once they come just enjoy every last bite of these wings, which taste as if they just came off an actual barbecue grill (as opposed to being deep fried like many buffalo wings are). Disclaimer: be careful if you are planning on ordering appetizers and entrees at Dino. You can easily get yourself into trouble filling up on the wings alone, because they are so big they truly live up to the name Dinosaur. They are extremely smoky and I just can't say enough about how ridiculously delicious they are. The first 10 times I came to Dino I kept my order simple: we just ordered the wings and famous Fried Green Tomatoes ($5.95/3 0r $8.95/5). The tomatoes come with a cayenne buttermilk ranch dressing, and are topped with lettuce and pecorino cheese. If you are feeling ambitious you can even pour the dressing on and mix everything up to make a fried green tomato salad. Make the trip up to Harlem to hit up Dino ASAP.
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