Every day between the hours of 11am and 3pm, a block away from North End Grill, and outside the courtyard of The World Financial Center, are five parked food trucks. Every Monday, one of these trucks is the Kimchi Taco Truck, and unless you decide to come early, expect to wait in line of upwards of twenty minutes. For this truck has the best food offered all week.
Phillip Lee, the founder of the truck, is a madman. Seriously, think about it. A man in love with Korean flavors who wants to make the distinct impact on the American public by bringing it to them in a recognizable form. Tacos. Who doesn't love tacos? Who doesn't love Korean food? Who the hell wouldn't love a Korean taco??
Now you understand.
If I'm lucky enough to have the time to wait on line at the truck before heading into work, I'm a very happy man. For $8 you can get three tacos, and then you can eat them right in the park overlooking the waterfront.
Kimchi Taco Truck offers four different types of tacos. Korean-marinated short ribs, spicy pork, braised chicken, and a falafel kimchi taco for vegetarians. The rest of the menu is very diverse. Kimchee bowls and even a kimchi cheesesteak are offered. All ingredients are made on the truck, and set you off on an intense culinary journey, if only just for a few bites.
Showing posts with label cheap eats. Show all posts
Showing posts with label cheap eats. Show all posts
Sep 6, 2012
Nov 25, 2011
In-N-Out Burger
I've never been here. Imagine my excitement when I saw this:
For any east coaster there is one burger chain that you always hear about but never, ever have the chance to visit. In-N-Out Burger only exists on the west coast (yes I know technically there are 2 in Texas now). What is all the hype my friends have built up for me? What is the "Animal Style" burger? What makes everyone on the eastern seaboard flock to a burger stand the second they are in California? Well, I'm about to find out.
I was two days into my trip when I took a photo of the outside of the restaurant and posted it to my facebook page. Immediately I received responses from friends, "My favorite!", "Get the Animal Style!!", "The fries suck!". Seems like I have been missing out on an In-N-Out experience...
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| Hmm...colors seem familiar.. |
I was two days into my trip when I took a photo of the outside of the restaurant and posted it to my facebook page. Immediately I received responses from friends, "My favorite!", "Get the Animal Style!!", "The fries suck!". Seems like I have been missing out on an In-N-Out experience...
Nov 22, 2011
Tea House at Japanese Tea Garden
On my visit to San Francisco I wasn't planning on doing many "touristy" things. Many buildings, attractions, and sites that most tourists flock to really don't interest me that much. When I visit a new city, I get to know it best I can through its food and people. However, when I read about the Japanese Tea Garden located right outside Golden Gate Park, I couldn't resist making the one hour trek over from my hotel to see it.
The Japanese culture has always piqued my interest. The architecture, the people, the clothing, customs, traditions, language, and food. I mean, really, what is there not to love? Everything about it is beautiful. Offering a type of zen and tranquility no matter what is it you're gazing upon.
The Japanese Tea Garden in SF is said to be America's oldest public Japanese tea garden. It was originally created in 1894 as a one-acre Japanese-style garden. Over the next few decades, a man named Makoto Hagiwara, a Japanese landscape architect, had moved his family onto the property. Mr. Hagiwara put all his personal wealth, passion, and creative talents into the garden to achieve in what he thought in his own eyes was perfection, and expanding it to about five acres.
In 1942, along with many other Japanese Americans, Mr. Hagiwara and his family were forced to move from their home and live in internment camps. When WWII was over, he and his family were not allowed to move back into their home, and in subsequent years, many of the Hagiwara family heirlooms were removed, replaced with other additions, and eventually turning into a public space for viewing.
Walking up to the Japanese Tea Garden is very minimalistic. Open landscape with a few small statues and man-made stools in front of an Asian-style gate. On one of these stools sat an older Asian male, playing a Japanese flute for passer-by's. What made him stand out was his engaging smile as he played, saying with it "I am happy, and there is no other place in the world I would rather be than here right now". As you then walk through the main entrance, you are transported into another world.
The Japanese culture has always piqued my interest. The architecture, the people, the clothing, customs, traditions, language, and food. I mean, really, what is there not to love? Everything about it is beautiful. Offering a type of zen and tranquility no matter what is it you're gazing upon.
The Japanese Tea Garden in SF is said to be America's oldest public Japanese tea garden. It was originally created in 1894 as a one-acre Japanese-style garden. Over the next few decades, a man named Makoto Hagiwara, a Japanese landscape architect, had moved his family onto the property. Mr. Hagiwara put all his personal wealth, passion, and creative talents into the garden to achieve in what he thought in his own eyes was perfection, and expanding it to about five acres.
In 1942, along with many other Japanese Americans, Mr. Hagiwara and his family were forced to move from their home and live in internment camps. When WWII was over, he and his family were not allowed to move back into their home, and in subsequent years, many of the Hagiwara family heirlooms were removed, replaced with other additions, and eventually turning into a public space for viewing.
Walking up to the Japanese Tea Garden is very minimalistic. Open landscape with a few small statues and man-made stools in front of an Asian-style gate. On one of these stools sat an older Asian male, playing a Japanese flute for passer-by's. What made him stand out was his engaging smile as he played, saying with it "I am happy, and there is no other place in the world I would rather be than here right now". As you then walk through the main entrance, you are transported into another world.
Nov 21, 2011
The Crab Station at Fisherman's Wharf
Fisherman's Wharf is a neighborhood located in San Francisco's north-east corner. Back in the day Fisherman's Wharf used to be the area where fishermen settled and fished for Dungeness Crab. Although it is still used as a port for many of San Francisco's fisherman and their fleet, the area has mainly been redeveloped into a tourist attraction, attracting many people from all over the country.
Walking into Fisherman's Wharf you start to see your usual tourist traps. Small stores selling cameras, t-shirts, mugs with "I <3 SF", museums, and...an In N Out Burger? Walk even further and you start to see pasta houses, seafood restaurants, and crab stalls that have been handed down from generation to generation.
If you're an avid seafood lover, there is no way you can turn down the idea of eating fresh seafood along the bay. Seafood freshly caught hours beforehand, boiled, broken down, and served with nothing more than cocktail sauce and lemon. Heaven.
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| Crab Houses lining the street along the Wharf |
If you're an avid seafood lover, there is no way you can turn down the idea of eating fresh seafood along the bay. Seafood freshly caught hours beforehand, boiled, broken down, and served with nothing more than cocktail sauce and lemon. Heaven.
Nov 19, 2011
Roli Roti
Disclaimer: This following post may cause panting, fainting, hot sweats, jaw pains, dreams, and an increase in hormones.
Yes. It really did.
Like 4505 Meats, Roli Roti is a meat and sandwich vendor located at the Farmer's Market outside of the Ferry Building. Unlike 4505 Meats, though, they only serve twice a week on Thursdays and Saturdays. Is it worth going? I might just fly back to San Francisco for a weekend to savor their amazing porchetta sandwich once again.
Call me crazy, but if this sandwich does not make the new show "Best Sandwich in America", I may just kill Adam Richman and his team at The Travel Channel. This is one of the, no scratch that, THE best sandwich I have ever had.
Yes. It really did.
Like 4505 Meats, Roli Roti is a meat and sandwich vendor located at the Farmer's Market outside of the Ferry Building. Unlike 4505 Meats, though, they only serve twice a week on Thursdays and Saturdays. Is it worth going? I might just fly back to San Francisco for a weekend to savor their amazing porchetta sandwich once again.
Call me crazy, but if this sandwich does not make the new show "Best Sandwich in America", I may just kill Adam Richman and his team at The Travel Channel. This is one of the, no scratch that, THE best sandwich I have ever had.
Nov 18, 2011
4505 Meats
If you're going to be in San Francisco, I highly recommend making a visit to The Ferry Building. Ride a trolley car down the Embaracadero, take in the sights of the beautiful San Francisco Bay, get off at The Ferry Building, take a walk inside, and savor the smells of all the beautiful artisinal vendors that await you.
The Ferry Building has a little of everything to satisfy the foodie inside of you. Save your appetite, though, and after venturing through, make sure to take a walk outside on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays, to visit the Farmer's Market outside. This is where you surely will not be disappointed.
4505 Meats is a small meat vendor serving freshly grilled meats to patrons visiting the Farmer's Market. The smell of the grilled meats intoxicates you, attracting you closer to their chalkboard menu portraying some of the best items you possibly could imagine at a Farmer's Market.
Turducken sandwich? Duck Sausage? Fried Turkey Leg? Yes, please.
The Ferry Building has a little of everything to satisfy the foodie inside of you. Save your appetite, though, and after venturing through, make sure to take a walk outside on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays, to visit the Farmer's Market outside. This is where you surely will not be disappointed.
4505 Meats is a small meat vendor serving freshly grilled meats to patrons visiting the Farmer's Market. The smell of the grilled meats intoxicates you, attracting you closer to their chalkboard menu portraying some of the best items you possibly could imagine at a Farmer's Market.
Turducken sandwich? Duck Sausage? Fried Turkey Leg? Yes, please.
Sep 4, 2011
Tacos el Idolo Food Truck
After my visit to Tacos el Bronco a few weeks ago in Brooklyn, my mouth has been watering for more tasty, authentic tacos in NY. Located just two blocks from the West Village location of Gray's Papaya, I couldn't help but try out the tacos from the Food Truck of Tacos el Idolo.
Even though I've never been to the West Coast (I'll make it there in November, pick your jaw back up!), and hardly remember my last visit to Texas, people from those areas constantly say that authentic Mexican food in NYC does not measure up. Honestly, that makes me upset. NYC is known as a food mecca, and the fact that I can't find something really authentic here pisses me off. With that being said, I can't wait to try out the Mexican food in California when I make it out there later this year.
That being said, I guess I'll settle for what I think are some great places here. Tacos El Idolo is based out of Corona, Queens, and has about three to four food trucks parked around NY. What really drew me to try them out was their meat selection. Along with the usual carnitas, beef, chicken, spicy pork, and salty beef, they also offer tongue, tripe, ear, and even goat meat. You know I'm always on the lookout for offal cuts. Tacos El Idolo did not disappoint.
Even though I've never been to the West Coast (I'll make it there in November, pick your jaw back up!), and hardly remember my last visit to Texas, people from those areas constantly say that authentic Mexican food in NYC does not measure up. Honestly, that makes me upset. NYC is known as a food mecca, and the fact that I can't find something really authentic here pisses me off. With that being said, I can't wait to try out the Mexican food in California when I make it out there later this year.
That being said, I guess I'll settle for what I think are some great places here. Tacos El Idolo is based out of Corona, Queens, and has about three to four food trucks parked around NY. What really drew me to try them out was their meat selection. Along with the usual carnitas, beef, chicken, spicy pork, and salty beef, they also offer tongue, tripe, ear, and even goat meat. You know I'm always on the lookout for offal cuts. Tacos El Idolo did not disappoint.
Sep 3, 2011
Gray's Papaya
I've been coming to Gray's Papaya and other Papaya rip-offs in NYC for years. Gray's Papaya rises above the rest, and the rest of the bunch include Papaya Dog, Chelsea Papaya, Mike's Papaya, Papaya King, Seventh Ave Papaya, and... well you get the idea.
Honestly, wherever you go you're going to get a tasty hot dog. But in my opinion Gray's, which is the original, does it best. Over here, it's all about the snappy texture. Cooked on a plancha (think flattop) it gives every dog a crunchy exterior. Compare these dogs to the soggy, limp, disgusting dogs swimming in dirty water inside hot dog carts across the city and it just seems like a no-brainer to make a trip out to Gray's.
Gray's serves $1.50 hot dogs, $1 pizza, and several flavors of fruit drinks. The hot dogs come with warmed buns, and pretty much any topping you desire. The pizza comes with many toppings, but I've never tried it (I'm not into $1 convenience pizza, call me crazy). The fruit drinks come in the original namesake Papaya, Orange, Grape, Pina Colada, Coconut Champagne, and Banana Daiquiri. The fruit drinks are all non-alcoholic, which is too bad for the NYU students living on a budget a few blocks away.
Honestly, wherever you go you're going to get a tasty hot dog. But in my opinion Gray's, which is the original, does it best. Over here, it's all about the snappy texture. Cooked on a plancha (think flattop) it gives every dog a crunchy exterior. Compare these dogs to the soggy, limp, disgusting dogs swimming in dirty water inside hot dog carts across the city and it just seems like a no-brainer to make a trip out to Gray's.
Gray's serves $1.50 hot dogs, $1 pizza, and several flavors of fruit drinks. The hot dogs come with warmed buns, and pretty much any topping you desire. The pizza comes with many toppings, but I've never tried it (I'm not into $1 convenience pizza, call me crazy). The fruit drinks come in the original namesake Papaya, Orange, Grape, Pina Colada, Coconut Champagne, and Banana Daiquiri. The fruit drinks are all non-alcoholic, which is too bad for the NYU students living on a budget a few blocks away.
Sep 1, 2011
Prosperity Dumpling
I don't know if you can find a better deal in NYC, and if you can, I'd love for you to show me.
Rickshaw, I think we've met your match.
Prosperity Dumpling is literally a hole-in-the-wall located in Chinatown. Walk too fast down Eldridge Street at night and you may miss it, as the yellow sign hanging above the door can not be seen. Just look for the line out the small door and wait patiently for a few minutes, and you'll be greatly rewarded.
Prosperity isn't much to look at. A small counter lining the wall with two bar stools is all that is inside. The space can fit about 3 customers comfortably. However, the line here moves fast, and everything in here is dirt cheap. That's what tempted me to venture out to Chinatown and try this place out. The dumplings here are 5 for $1. That's right. No gimmick. No hustle. You get 5 jumbo dumplings for $1.
Now I've had cheap meals before, and it's always you get what you pay for. What can you really expect for that price? I can tell you, now from experience, these are the best dumplings I have ever had in NYC, and the fact they are so incredibly cheap makes them taste even better.
Rickshaw, I think we've met your match.
Prosperity Dumpling is literally a hole-in-the-wall located in Chinatown. Walk too fast down Eldridge Street at night and you may miss it, as the yellow sign hanging above the door can not be seen. Just look for the line out the small door and wait patiently for a few minutes, and you'll be greatly rewarded.
Prosperity isn't much to look at. A small counter lining the wall with two bar stools is all that is inside. The space can fit about 3 customers comfortably. However, the line here moves fast, and everything in here is dirt cheap. That's what tempted me to venture out to Chinatown and try this place out. The dumplings here are 5 for $1. That's right. No gimmick. No hustle. You get 5 jumbo dumplings for $1.
Now I've had cheap meals before, and it's always you get what you pay for. What can you really expect for that price? I can tell you, now from experience, these are the best dumplings I have ever had in NYC, and the fact they are so incredibly cheap makes them taste even better.
Aug 23, 2011
Tacos el Bronco
I would be surprised if anyone tells me that haven't had some sort of Mexican food in their lives. Mexican food is just a part of American culture nowadays as the hamburger. Tacos, burritos, enchiladas, taquitos, salsa, mole, nachos, tamales, quesadillas, and guacamole. Is your mouth watering yet? Mine is too.
But like many cuisines across the United States corporate monkeys looking to make a quick buck destroyed the image of Mexican cuisine. Chain and fast food restaurants like Taco Bell, On the Border, Chilis, and even Chipotle are using sub-par ingredients, dismal food pairings, and charging customers an arm and leg for it. What's even more surprising? People are willing to pay for it.
Mexican food is about love. Mexican food is about simplicity. It's not about deep-frying a burrito and covering it in three types of cheese, with a side of "Spanish" rice and beans. It's about taking quality meats, slow-braising them until tender, and serving them inside soft, warm tortillas with onions, cilantro, and lime. It's about taking homemade masa (corn-based dough), stuffing it with braised meats, and steaming it inside a banana leaf until tender. In Mexico they fill their burritos only with meat and refried beans. Whoever came up with the idea of stuffing rice, meat, salsa, sour cream, lettuce, avocado, beans, and cheese into a burrito is just looking to scam you by making you pay $12 for it. Mexican food doesn't need all that. As long as you have a passionate cook that knows how to handle the ingredients, you realize you don't need all the extras. You taste the love that they put in with their own hands.
But like many cuisines across the United States corporate monkeys looking to make a quick buck destroyed the image of Mexican cuisine. Chain and fast food restaurants like Taco Bell, On the Border, Chilis, and even Chipotle are using sub-par ingredients, dismal food pairings, and charging customers an arm and leg for it. What's even more surprising? People are willing to pay for it.
Mexican food is about love. Mexican food is about simplicity. It's not about deep-frying a burrito and covering it in three types of cheese, with a side of "Spanish" rice and beans. It's about taking quality meats, slow-braising them until tender, and serving them inside soft, warm tortillas with onions, cilantro, and lime. It's about taking homemade masa (corn-based dough), stuffing it with braised meats, and steaming it inside a banana leaf until tender. In Mexico they fill their burritos only with meat and refried beans. Whoever came up with the idea of stuffing rice, meat, salsa, sour cream, lettuce, avocado, beans, and cheese into a burrito is just looking to scam you by making you pay $12 for it. Mexican food doesn't need all that. As long as you have a passionate cook that knows how to handle the ingredients, you realize you don't need all the extras. You taste the love that they put in with their own hands.
Aug 17, 2011
Rickshaw Dumpling Truck
Dumplings aren't something you need to learn to love.
The Rickshaw Dumpling Truck is one of many mobile food vending units of Rickshaw Dumpling Bar, which has several locations throughout New York. Rickshaw Dumpling Bar was co-founded in 2005 by Chef Anita Lo. In my mind a very high-class but low-key chef, she is the Executive Chef of Restaurant Annisa in Greenwich Village, and has been a former contestant on Iron Chef America, Top Chef Masters season 1, and most recently seen in the public eye on Food Network's Chopped. In 2010 she left Rickshaw Dumpling Bar to pursue other culinary interests, but her legacy still lives on in these handmade, steamed bundles of joy.
At the Dumpling Bar locations, you can choose between five different types of dumplings. You then have your choice of getting them pan-fried or steamed, on top of a large salad or in a bowl of hot noodle soup. Service is fast, the portions are large, and everything is just so damn good.
Although still good, the trucks only offer three types of dumplings, and you can only receive them steamed, and on their own with a dipping sauce. Chicken with Thai basil, pork with Chinese chives, and vegetarian edamame. Rickshaw prides itself on using organic Bell & Evans chicken, the same used by most NYC restaurants, and organic edamame. The flavors are clean, and do come through. However, at $6 for 6 pieces, you wonder how paying $1 for a steamed dumpling is justified.
The Rickshaw Dumpling Truck is one of many mobile food vending units of Rickshaw Dumpling Bar, which has several locations throughout New York. Rickshaw Dumpling Bar was co-founded in 2005 by Chef Anita Lo. In my mind a very high-class but low-key chef, she is the Executive Chef of Restaurant Annisa in Greenwich Village, and has been a former contestant on Iron Chef America, Top Chef Masters season 1, and most recently seen in the public eye on Food Network's Chopped. In 2010 she left Rickshaw Dumpling Bar to pursue other culinary interests, but her legacy still lives on in these handmade, steamed bundles of joy.
At the Dumpling Bar locations, you can choose between five different types of dumplings. You then have your choice of getting them pan-fried or steamed, on top of a large salad or in a bowl of hot noodle soup. Service is fast, the portions are large, and everything is just so damn good.
Although still good, the trucks only offer three types of dumplings, and you can only receive them steamed, and on their own with a dipping sauce. Chicken with Thai basil, pork with Chinese chives, and vegetarian edamame. Rickshaw prides itself on using organic Bell & Evans chicken, the same used by most NYC restaurants, and organic edamame. The flavors are clean, and do come through. However, at $6 for 6 pieces, you wonder how paying $1 for a steamed dumpling is justified.
Aug 3, 2011
John's Famous Deli
Never heard of it? It's ok, because before last week I never have either. Why do restaurants put the word "famous" in their titles?
I will say one thing, though. Even though this place is not that famous, it should be. John's Famous Deli is a small operation located in Staten Island, with three more locations in Brooklyn. From the outside it looks like your typical deli. Open door, plenty of signs displaying Boar's Head products and prices, and breakfast and lunch specials.
John's boasts that it has the best roast beef in the world. After reading yelp reviews of the deli, I was intrigued to try it myself. Everyone was going crazy for the roast beef sandwich. Roast beef? Fresh Mozzarella? Onions? Gravy? This I was looking forward to.
They offer two sizes. On a roll for $6, or on a hero for $7.50. I went for the hero. The guy behind the counter then sliced the roast beef fresh, piled it on my sandwich, added a few slices of fresh mozzarella, caramelized onions, and threw it into a pizza oven to toast.
A sign on the drink fridge reads "If you're in a hurry, you're in the wrong place." Funny.
There was just one person in the deli ahead of me. He ordered two roast beef sandwiches for himself. Then another guy came in and ordered a roast beef sandwich. Then three more guys came in and did the same. Six guys, seven roast beef sandwich orders, in a span of ten minutes. Wow.
A sign on the drink fridge reads "If you're in a hurry, you're in the wrong place." Funny.
There was just one person in the deli ahead of me. He ordered two roast beef sandwiches for himself. Then another guy came in and ordered a roast beef sandwich. Then three more guys came in and did the same. Six guys, seven roast beef sandwich orders, in a span of ten minutes. Wow.
Jun 17, 2011
Shake Shack vs Five Guys
DC vs NY and everything in between. Which Eastern burger chain will soon dominate all?
Five Guys Burgers & Fries - the very first location opened in Arlington, VA in 1986, and in the next 15 years slowly started to expand into the DC-metro area. It wasn't until the year 2002 that Five Guys decided to franchise into Maryland and Virginia. Now, they have over 750 locations across the Eastern seaboard. The first NY area location opened within the past two years, and has now quickly expanded to 15 in NYC alone.
Five Guys used to be a destination burger joint for me. I was first introduced to their burgers in a PA location back in 2007. Soon after, whenever I was back in PA or DC Five Guys was definitely one spot I HAD to visit. The restaurants themselves don't have much to them. Red and white tiled walls, cheap wooden tables with free unshelled peanuts, and bags upon bags of potatoes in the front. But their burgers are amazing. No less than a double patty, formed and cooked right in front of you, you make your own combination, and so incredibly juicy.
As busy as they ever are, the lines move quick. Side note, and also a huge plus, you can order right from your phone. Go here to the android website to download the Five Guys app.
You have your base choice of hamburger, cheeseburger, bacon burger, or bacon cheeseburger. Then you get to add any combination of free additional toppings, which include mayo, relish, onions, tomatoes, jalapenos, lettuce, grilled onions, grilled mushrooms, ketchup, mustard, green pepper, A1 steak sauce, bbq sauce, and hot sauce. Let them do the math for you, that's over 250,000 possible burger combinations.
Five Guys Burgers & Fries - the very first location opened in Arlington, VA in 1986, and in the next 15 years slowly started to expand into the DC-metro area. It wasn't until the year 2002 that Five Guys decided to franchise into Maryland and Virginia. Now, they have over 750 locations across the Eastern seaboard. The first NY area location opened within the past two years, and has now quickly expanded to 15 in NYC alone.
Five Guys used to be a destination burger joint for me. I was first introduced to their burgers in a PA location back in 2007. Soon after, whenever I was back in PA or DC Five Guys was definitely one spot I HAD to visit. The restaurants themselves don't have much to them. Red and white tiled walls, cheap wooden tables with free unshelled peanuts, and bags upon bags of potatoes in the front. But their burgers are amazing. No less than a double patty, formed and cooked right in front of you, you make your own combination, and so incredibly juicy.
As busy as they ever are, the lines move quick. Side note, and also a huge plus, you can order right from your phone. Go here to the android website to download the Five Guys app.
You have your base choice of hamburger, cheeseburger, bacon burger, or bacon cheeseburger. Then you get to add any combination of free additional toppings, which include mayo, relish, onions, tomatoes, jalapenos, lettuce, grilled onions, grilled mushrooms, ketchup, mustard, green pepper, A1 steak sauce, bbq sauce, and hot sauce. Let them do the math for you, that's over 250,000 possible burger combinations.
Jun 14, 2011
Fatty Snack Kiosk
Earlier this summer owner Zak Pelaccio expanded his Fatty Crab empire into Battery Park, setting up small kiosks of Fatty 'Cue in the park itself, as well as Fatty Snack in the park and the World Financial Center.
If you have yet to try Fatty Crab I highly recommend you do so. The original is located in the West Village, and it does get packed very quickly. However, the Upper West Side location is a tiny bit more spacious and also has outdoor seating. Their chili crab is one of my favorite dishes in the city. Hard-shelled crab, swimming in a spicy, sweet, salty, sour curry with large pieces of bread. It's messy, it's delicious, and a whole lot of fun to eat.
When I learned that they had expanded into battery park I immediately had high hopes of checking it out. On this gorgeous Monday afternoon I biked into the back of the World Financial Center and had done just that. The scenery is enough to pay a visit. The kiosk is one of three, set up right next to a lobster roll stand, and Quality Burger. In front of them is the financial center with plenty of outdoor seating, and behind them is a beautiful view of a marina and the Hudson river. On a sunny day it's no wonder you see thousands of people hanging out in the area with burgers, beers, pulled pork sandwiches, and fatty dogs in hand.
The food at Fatty Snack is a bit on the pricier side, and quite honestly I don't see myself paying $7 for a sausage dog (and why is it only $6 at the park?) or $9 for a pulled pork sandwich on a regular basis. And $3 for a Fiji water? Get the hell out of here.
If you have yet to try Fatty Crab I highly recommend you do so. The original is located in the West Village, and it does get packed very quickly. However, the Upper West Side location is a tiny bit more spacious and also has outdoor seating. Their chili crab is one of my favorite dishes in the city. Hard-shelled crab, swimming in a spicy, sweet, salty, sour curry with large pieces of bread. It's messy, it's delicious, and a whole lot of fun to eat.
When I learned that they had expanded into battery park I immediately had high hopes of checking it out. On this gorgeous Monday afternoon I biked into the back of the World Financial Center and had done just that. The scenery is enough to pay a visit. The kiosk is one of three, set up right next to a lobster roll stand, and Quality Burger. In front of them is the financial center with plenty of outdoor seating, and behind them is a beautiful view of a marina and the Hudson river. On a sunny day it's no wonder you see thousands of people hanging out in the area with burgers, beers, pulled pork sandwiches, and fatty dogs in hand.
The food at Fatty Snack is a bit on the pricier side, and quite honestly I don't see myself paying $7 for a sausage dog (and why is it only $6 at the park?) or $9 for a pulled pork sandwich on a regular basis. And $3 for a Fiji water? Get the hell out of here.
Jun 9, 2011
The Grease Trucks
It's no surprise to anyone that there is a food truck craze going on in America. From NY to LA, Chicago to Austin, food trucks are popping up everywhere. You can now find gourmet meals offered to you right on the sidewalk, offered at a fraction of the price of a restaurant, with the same amount of quality and friendly service.
Chefs and other professionals that want to get into the food industry are realizing it is easier than ever to start your own mobile food truck business. And with the impact of social networking sites such as Facebook and Twitter, food trucks are getting as much media attention and followers as the latest restaurant establishments. Call it the newest trend. Call it a fad. Yet, The Grease Trucks of Rutgers University are some of the originals. Started in 1979, the R U Hungry? food truck was the first, and the original Fat Cat was born.
If you've never heard of the Fat Sandwiches, here's a rundown. Imagine taking fried, greasy food, mixing it with lettuce, tomato, and onions, topping it with French fries, and stuffing it into a roll. The orginal Fat Cat took every college kid's favorite meal, the double cheeseburger and French fries, and stuffed it into a roll with lettuce, tomato, mayo, and ketchup. Sound delicious? It is.
In 1997, a student by the name of Darrell Butler went up to R U Hungry?, and asked if he could take chicken fingers, mozzarella sticks, and french fries, mix it with marinara sauce, and eat it as a sandwich. Call it sheer genius or a drunken mistake, but alas, the Fat Darrell was created. Thirteen years later, Maxim magazine named it the number one sandwich in the country.
Chefs and other professionals that want to get into the food industry are realizing it is easier than ever to start your own mobile food truck business. And with the impact of social networking sites such as Facebook and Twitter, food trucks are getting as much media attention and followers as the latest restaurant establishments. Call it the newest trend. Call it a fad. Yet, The Grease Trucks of Rutgers University are some of the originals. Started in 1979, the R U Hungry? food truck was the first, and the original Fat Cat was born.
If you've never heard of the Fat Sandwiches, here's a rundown. Imagine taking fried, greasy food, mixing it with lettuce, tomato, and onions, topping it with French fries, and stuffing it into a roll. The orginal Fat Cat took every college kid's favorite meal, the double cheeseburger and French fries, and stuffed it into a roll with lettuce, tomato, mayo, and ketchup. Sound delicious? It is.
In 1997, a student by the name of Darrell Butler went up to R U Hungry?, and asked if he could take chicken fingers, mozzarella sticks, and french fries, mix it with marinara sauce, and eat it as a sandwich. Call it sheer genius or a drunken mistake, but alas, the Fat Darrell was created. Thirteen years later, Maxim magazine named it the number one sandwich in the country.
Jun 7, 2011
The Brownstone Diner & Pancake Factory
One of my closest friends introduced me to The Brownstone Diner a few years ago. Ever since, I was jealous of the fact that she lived, literally, twenty feet from the entrance. This diner has now become my favorite in the area, as well as so many others I have introduced it to.
It may be the welcoming family spirit of the Bournias. Since the early 70's this place has been family owned, and every member of the family can be seen from time to time working in the diner. You can tell they care. They care a lot about their customers. Every one of them is friendly, and welcome each diner with a warm smile and open heart. You feel at home from the second you walk through the door, and this could also be due to the fact that the diner has a feel of someone's home kitchen. There is no endless stainless steel or neon lights here.
As many times as I have been here, I can admit I have only conquered about a quarter of their menu. In true diner fashion, they offer well over 100 items, with 31 of them being just pancakes. Hey, if you're gonna call yourself The Pancake Factory, you better have an entire page of your menu dedicated to them. I could go on and on about how great their pancakes are, and in fact I could go on and on about how great everything on their menu is, but I don't have to. Most people already know. It's not surprising to have to wait upwards of an hour or two for a seat here on the weekends. And this was even before the diner was showcased on Guy Fieri's Food Network show "Diners, Drive-Ins, and Dives". (This will explain the huge poster of him hanging over the window to the open kitchen.)
You can get breakfast here all day (they're open every day from 6am-11pm). As much as I love their pancakes, though, corned beef hash and eggs is, and always will be my go-to for diner breakfasts. I can't get enough of it. When I started living on my own years ago I even found myself buying cans upon cans of corned beef hash to cook at home. To me it is the ultimate comfort food. There is nothing better when you're sitting at home, and eating a plate full of warm, crispy corned beef hash and poached eggs. A sprinkle of tabasco and I'm in heaven.
It may be the welcoming family spirit of the Bournias. Since the early 70's this place has been family owned, and every member of the family can be seen from time to time working in the diner. You can tell they care. They care a lot about their customers. Every one of them is friendly, and welcome each diner with a warm smile and open heart. You feel at home from the second you walk through the door, and this could also be due to the fact that the diner has a feel of someone's home kitchen. There is no endless stainless steel or neon lights here.
As many times as I have been here, I can admit I have only conquered about a quarter of their menu. In true diner fashion, they offer well over 100 items, with 31 of them being just pancakes. Hey, if you're gonna call yourself The Pancake Factory, you better have an entire page of your menu dedicated to them. I could go on and on about how great their pancakes are, and in fact I could go on and on about how great everything on their menu is, but I don't have to. Most people already know. It's not surprising to have to wait upwards of an hour or two for a seat here on the weekends. And this was even before the diner was showcased on Guy Fieri's Food Network show "Diners, Drive-Ins, and Dives". (This will explain the huge poster of him hanging over the window to the open kitchen.)
You can get breakfast here all day (they're open every day from 6am-11pm). As much as I love their pancakes, though, corned beef hash and eggs is, and always will be my go-to for diner breakfasts. I can't get enough of it. When I started living on my own years ago I even found myself buying cans upon cans of corned beef hash to cook at home. To me it is the ultimate comfort food. There is nothing better when you're sitting at home, and eating a plate full of warm, crispy corned beef hash and poached eggs. A sprinkle of tabasco and I'm in heaven.
Jun 4, 2011
Hill Country Chicken
“A fresh fried chicken joint”
I do not want to start a debate with fried chicken enthusiasts, or get hung by Southerners on who has the best fried chicken in New York City. Hopefully, we can agree that the fried chicken served at Hill Country Chicken is damn good.
I’ve been here twice, and this place is always packed, no matter what time you go. HCC sources out extra-large all-natural chickens, prepares them fresh daily, and the result is an immensely flavorful, crispy, and juicy piece of chicken. They have three dining areas, with sidewalk seating open for the season, and a main dining area with plenty of large tables. The downstairs area is a little more private, with plenty of more seating, as well as banquettes, offers a view of their prep kitchen, and also serves as a kid’s party area complete with board games and a classic Space Invaders arcade machine.
The chicken here is sold by the piece, in both classic and Mama El’s (the founder’s grandmother) recipes. Every piece of chicken offered here is brined in buttermilk, spices, and herbs, coated with a flour, egg, and cracker crust, and deep-fried to perfect crispy goodness. Something else that may shock everyone is to know that the fried chicken served here is skinless. With the cracker crust, though, let me tell you, you’re not going to miss the chicken skin at all. They then toss it in a variety of spices. My god. My mouth is watering just thinking about it.
Jun 2, 2011
White N' Hot Halal Truck
Halal carts. They’re all over NYC. Five dollars can get you a great meal of chicken n’ rice, lamb n’ rice, falafels, gyros, shish kebabs, and even burgers and fries at some of them.
There are as many of them lingering the sidewalks of NY as there are hot dog carts. Most people grab a meal at the closest one out of convenience. Others are worth going out of the way for. Asking a true New Yorker what the best halal cart/truck is in NY can spark a debate that would never end. By the way, if you mention “Platters” in midtown you’re clearly labeled as a tourist, or from New Jersey.
Don’t get me wrong, Platters is good, but it’s not worth all the hype and attention it receives. Also, I don’t see why I should wait upwards of 20 minutes for street food there, as the line is usually down the block. My favorite halal truck in NY is called White N’ Hot, and it’s parked at the corner of 28th Street and Madison Ave.
Platters is the one all the tourists flock to, but White N’ Hot is the one that all the cab drivers come to. That’s a true sign that you know it’s going to be good. The truck is parked there all day, from noon to 4am. If you go late, like I do around midnight or so, you’ll always get friendly service. The two guys running the truck love what they do, and love feeding the people of the neighborhood. Even when the bar crowd at Pranna empties out, you’re never waiting more than five minutes for your food.
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