HopHap 03-20-2011

Location: 204 Smith St. BK

Time: 4pm

People: RB, CK and myself

Feelings: Some men obnoxiously call RB "Mr. Mom" because of his splendid ability to be able to take care of CK. However, this is truly degrading to both RB and other mothers. This isn't circa 1983 Michael Keaton era anymore, and all dads should naturally be a "Mr. Mom." It is an important part of the marital and family partnership. Thankfully, in BoCoCa, especially on Smith street, we see dads as co-caregivers. What we see almost as often as BabyBjorn wearing dads on Smith street is...Thai restaurants.

RB and I could never figure out why there were two locations of Ghang Thai only a few blocks away from each other in our area. But recently, the Smith street location changed. Into what you may ask? What else but a Thai restaurant, this one called HopHap. Ghang Thai had been our weekly Thai staple, but we decided to give this new one a try without too high of expectations. Then, I saw Roti Canai ($6) on the menu, and I instantly became a HopHap convert. What other Thai restaurants in the area serve my favorite appetizer, roti canai? Why would this Thai restaurant carry a Malaysian dish? Not sure, but the bread was crispy, and the massaman curry was sweet and flavorful, which made our ordinary Thai dinner to the next level.

My Tofu Pad Se Ew ($7) was well flavored without excessive grease or salt, and both vegetables and noodles were al dente. RB ordered Crispy Pork Chop ($10.95, with coconut sticky rice and sweet chili sauce) from their specialty menu, which is full of seafood and meat dishes that are somewhat closer to Queens style Thai food than Brooklyn . The pork chop was a bit dry, but RB said this could probably be blamed on getting takeout. The crust of the pork chop was peanuty and flavorful, and the sticky rice was a delicious accompaniment.

Needless to say, we will be ordering from HopHap from now on. As we write this, we already ordered from them twice, and every order brought a solid, tasty experience. Nothing can be compared to Thai restaurants in Woodside or Elmhurst , but as far as BoCoCa goes, HopHap may just be the best Thai joint around.

Danji 03-21-2011

Location: 346 W. 52nd St.
Time: 12:30pm
People: AP and myself

Feelings: 52nd street between 8th and 9th avenues is becoming quite the authentic Asian restaurant row with Totto, Cha Pa's, and now the Korean tapas joint, Danji. Their modern yet cozy decor gave an unpretentious and relaxing vibe, and with quite an accommodating service, I immediately felt comfortable.

They had lunch dup-bop set menus with three choices: brisket bulgogi ($14), vegetarian japchae ($12), and today's special, pulled pork. AP thoroughly enjoyed deep fried vegetable dumplings ($7), and pulled pork dup-bop, which he said was pleasantly and delicately spiced. My japchae set was quite a palate stimulating meal. Rice and vegetables are well prepared, and the overall flavor was harmonious and delicate. The soup that came with the set had the well balanced flavor of miso and subtle spiciness.

People who seek bold, overpowering Korean flavors with big portions would not find what they are looking for here, but if you want to spend a little extra cash for lunch to enjoy layers of flavors in cozy setting, this is definitely for you. Asian fusion could be tacky, but Danji did something right by strictly modernizing the Korean classics. Danji is indeed a hidden gem in Midtown, and we cannot wait to go back there soon... but perhaps we should wait until payday.

Ramen Kuboya 03-12-2011

Location: 536 E. 5th St.

Time: 1pm

People: RB, CK and myself

Feelings: The day after the earthquake and tsunami hit the eastern Japan, I was surprised to find myself maintaining the famous Japanese stoicism and fatalistic sense of being. There are reasons why there has not been any looting in Japan after the quake, and that is due to the way we approach life-- "Shikata ga nai," as we say. Nothing can be done about it, is the literal translation, and we accept our fate as it is and keep moving forward. On that day in particular, I wanted to be around the Japanese people and food to feel "Shikata ga nai" to further maintain my inner peace. The day like this, I need ramen.

Ramen Kuboya is located right next door to the well established ramen shop, Minca. Their ambitious choice of location made me even more curious about their ramen. The interior did not scream Japanese or ramen shop at all. With wooden tables, brick walls and French music, it gave the vibe of a new American brunch spot.

RB and I both ordered their wafu style ramen ($11), which came with Japanese style broth without tonkotsu (pork bone broth). It was light and flavorful without excessive amounts of salt or grease. The noodles were nicely thin and chewy, and I was impressed with how fresh and tasty toppings were. I felt the sense of care from my bowl of ramen. New Yorkers who are used to a sinfully greasy bowl of ramen with tons of toppings might not be happy with this delicately flavored dish. I also don't recall tasting ramen quite like this in Japan, so I appreciate this new tasty twist.

The ultimate question is, which one would you go--Minca or Kuboya?

Here are the answers:

1) If you're eating alone - Minca

2) If you're on a hot date -Kuboya

3) If you're on a bad date and want to go home early - Minca

4) If you have a stroller - Kuboya

5) If you're a vegan - Minca

6) If you love good shrimp gyoza- Minca

The quality of ramen is equally good at Minca and Kuboya, so I would decide mainly by the atmosphere.

Dine in Brooklyn 03-23-2011

Feelings: I have been seeing this Dine in Brooklyn poster everywhere, but MGill sent me the link saying that this promotion is happening right now through the 31st. From my neighborhood of Cobble Hill, I highly recommend Bocca Lupo and Hibino, both located on Henry Street. What is your favorite Brooklyn restaurant listed here?

Inari from Totto Ramen 03-14-2011

Location: 366 West 52nd St.

Time: 12:30pm

People: Kate, SaSha, AP and myself

Feelings: There is no doubt that Totto Ramen offers one of the best ramen options in Midtown. Whenever non-Midtowners are visiting, I always bring them to Totto just so they can see how culturally and culinarily diverse Midtown can be.

Today when we finally got a seat after 10-15 minutes of waiting, we saw that they had a new limited special: Two pieces of Inari (Sweet fried tofu pouches stuffed with sesame ginger rice). While most inari contains only the regular sushi rice and some black sesame inside, their version came with delicious vegetable filling similar to gomoku-zushi, Osaka style sushi rice mixed with vegetables. The sweet tofu skin and the tangy sushi rice created a luscious and mouthwatering combination of flavor. The rice was excellently cooked, and each grain looked shiny and plump and ready to be eaten.

I don't know who could possibly be tired of ramen, but if you are one of the unlikely few, I would recommend getting inari instead while your co workers slurp up some noodles.

Flushing Mall Food Court 03-13-2011

Location: 133-31 39th Ave. Flushing

Time: 2pm

People: 8 Ramen and Friends: BLee, JBH, MLev, Jaye & Hubbie, RB, CK and myself

Feelings: After hearing tragic news that the Flushing Mall will be closing in 2012, we had to meet at their renowned food court just one last time. Since it takes about two hours for us Brooklynites to get to the mall via public transit, I have a feeling this might be the last time. Not to be confused with Golden Shopping Mall, where Anthony Bourdain visited, Flushing Mall is located across the street from the amazing dim sum spot, Ocean Jewel, and SaSha's soup dumpling favorite, Nan Xiang is nearby. The mall itself exudes rather strange atmosphere, and the shops seem to carry many oddities.

When I hear the word "food court," I automatically picture teenagers, Cinnabon and Sbarros and other unhealthily crafted fast food, but this particular food court is quite the opposite of the stereotypes. "There's such a variety of quick, cheap, and tasty Chinese dishes all in one location. It was obvious that families go there, too--a good sign when grandmas area eating alongside you," said BLee. We were overwhelmed by the variety and aimlessly explored the area. All the menus included English, but it was still difficult to order and more difficult to pick it up when it was ready without speaking the language. Since substitution and requests are more of American culture, I would encourage to strictly stick to the menu items. RB's shrimp dumplings ($6 for a large plate of dumplings) ended up containing at least 50% pork, so if you're a selective eater like myself, I would recommend to stick with vegetable dishes.

My cold vegetable noodles were chewy and full of flavors, mostly garlic. JBH enjoyed her beef stew soup and red bean bun, and BLee's triple delight dumplings (pork, shrimp and chives, $6) were handmade in front of her and steamed to order. Don't forget to pick up JBH's favorite, Delimanjoo on your way out. This custard filled mini cakes are soft and creamy inside and quite addictive.

It will be sad to see this food court go. For many non locals, this was a safe introduction to the world of Flushing food. One of the counters, Xi'an is easily accessible in Manhattan's Chinatown, but this food court is no longer about just the food as BLee meticulously pointed out, "This place obviously serves the local community and brings them together in a larger seating area." I hope the new development, Flushing Commons, will have the same sense of community and maintain the unique flavors, both food and cultures, of ever growing Flushing.

Fundraising for Japan! 03-17-11

Feelings: If you like to help people in Japan while partying and dancing, please attend this Saturday's fundraising event at Lolita Bar. See more details here. There will be silent and live auction, live music and DJ, and a photo booth to send messages to Japan, and more.

Van Horn 03-09-2011

Location: 231 Court St.

Feelings: Cobble Hill may be the baby central of Brooklyn, but surprisingly CK is the only baby in our apartment building. When I was pregnant, I could see the fear in our neighbors' eyes. Some of them get upset when I leave the stroller by the foyer for an hour, and others smoke so much that it leaks through our wall. We obviously need to move when the lease is up, but we are determined to stay in Cobble Hill because of the great spots like Van Horn Sandwich Shop.

Van Horn seems similar to Mile End on Hoyt Street, and it is a cute and rustic neighborhood sandwich shop that serves mouthwatering comfort foods. They even have something called P.L.T. ($8, sweet potato, pimento cheese, lettuce, tomato, and garlic aioli) for vegetarians, but RB brought me home their fish sandwich ($11, cornmeal-breaded fried catfish, pickle, slaw, tartar sauce) instead. This was perhaps the best fish sandwich I have had. Since it involved fried fish, it was on the heavier side, but the beautifully cooked catffish and tangy pickle and slaw created a flavorful combination.

RB's pulled pork sandwich was surprisingly delicate. He expected a big sloppy and saucy sandwich, but to his surprise and delight, it was very clean, simple and delicious. The extremely tender and delicate pork blended well with the crispy and light cabbage.

You may wonder why pay $11-$12 for a small sandwich, but the quality ingredients and flavorful combination of artisan work are worth every penny. If you're still hungry, just stop at TJ's on Atlantic and pick up their delicious peanut butter cup ice cream.

Meze Grill 03-07-2011

Location: 934 8th Ave.

Time: 1pm

People: AP, MKang, and myself

Feelings: I remember when Chipotle first opened in NYC, and my then co-workers and I frequented there for lunch. After a month, everyone in the company gained about 3-4lbs and could not figure out why. It was a total Seinfeld non-fat yogurt moment.

I am not sure if Meze Grill is run by the same Corporate giant that runs Chipotle, but if I were them, I would be pretty upset. Meze Grill is identical to Chipotle except they serve Middle Eastern food. Meze's marketing is also around "quick healthy food," but we all know how caloric Chipotle is.

I ordered the rice platter with bulgur rice with falafel and two sauces. It was nice to be able to choose all the fillings. They really drench it in sauce, so I would recommend ordering dressing on the side. Both AP and I were not particularly thrilled by our dishes, and I thought the veggies were not fresh. AP was especially disappointed that their juice-smoothie machine was out of the order. MKang enjoyed her pita sandwich, so perhaps the sandwiches are better here.

It is hard to beat some of the amazing falafel spots in Midtown such as Azuri and Hummus Kitchen, and occasional Taim Mobile, but perhaps I should not even put Meze in the same category. It is indeed better than Chickpea, but I prefer Maoz and Crisp if I am looking for quick and filling falafel platters. However, the non-intimidating atmosphere of Meze is perfect for the wandering tourists and the commuters who enjoy their daily Chipotle or Subway sandwiches.

Thoughts and Prayers 03-11-2011

Feelings: My thoughts and prayers are with people in Sendai and Northeast of Japan. As a person who experienced The Great Hanshin Earthquake back in the 90s, I see how devastating this tragedy must be. I remember the morning the earthquake shook our house. I was buried under all my comic book collections, and my father rushed to find me, but primarily his brand new TV set!

My parents are in Osaka, far from the area that was hit by the earthquake. But they sounded shaken up by this disaster while confirming that my friends in Tokyo and Fukushima are safe.

Thank you, friends of Ramen and Friends for your thoughtful messages.

Idaho Spud Candy Bar 03-08-2011

Feelings: Once upon a time, I was an aspiring filmmaker. After studying film and television, I was ready to conquer the world until I saw how expensive my rent and monthly bills would be, and I was too high maintenance and my high heels were five inches too high to live a bohemian lifestyle. So I did just what every other film school graduates did: work at an office cubicle in corporate media industry. If I could go back 10 years ago and tell myself to get a real degree that actually makes money, I would. But I am here now, slightly defeated.

If aspiring filmmakers and writers stereotypically turn to alcohol for inspiration, what do office workers look to? Candy. When my coworker shared this obscure, retro looking candy called "Idaho Spud Candy Bar," I had to give it a try. This potato shaped candy has the most interesting texture of marshmallow and coconut. According to their website, the marshmallow inside is drenched with dark chocolate, but as I ate it, I could not quite figure out what exactly I was eating. Although it was too sweet for my palate, the unique texture amused my senses.

If you're tired of Hershey's and KitKat, why not add this strange candy bar to your candy bucket collection?

Bocca Lupo 03-05-2011

Location: 391 Henry St. BK
Time: 12:30pm
People: MA, ES, RB, CK and myself

Feelings: If anyone asks me what Cobble Hill is like, I would tell them to go to Bocca Lupo on Henry Street. During brunch time, you would see what Cobble Hill is all about: strollers and yogi moms, bearded dads and their equally hip kids sharing food at the counter, and writers comparing notes on their next script. Having said that, if you have a baby phobia, I would not recommend this place for brunch unless you want a reminder for birth control.

The interior of this quaint Italian eatery is also quintessential Brooklyn: reclaimed wooden tables and chairs and a long bar. With its clean and cozy atmosphere, it exudes the essence of neighborhood hangout. The service was friendly, and they were helpful to us with a baby and accommodating our stroller.

Looking through the prices of their menu, I thought the portions would be small, but it turned out to be bigger than I had expected. My panini with eggs, vegetables and goat cheese ($9) was flavorful, and the eggs were cooked to perfection. I usually do not like American panini since they tend to be greasy and overstuffed, but this was light yet filling.

For RB and myself, the highlight of the brunch was the side of pickled cauliflower that came with the panini. I would usually avoid cauliflower for its blandness and mushy texture, but they completely proved me wrong. I learned that just like tofu, cauliflower can also be turned into the most delicious source of flavor and texture. Also from their vegetable antipasti, I could really taste their fresh ingredients and sensible, delicate flavoring.

Bocca Lupo, Hibino, Henry Public... Henry Street really is full of wonderful neighborhood gems. When you had too much of the bustling Court and Smith Streets, I would recommend taking a stroll on this quiet section of Brooklyn.

Taste of Home Benefit 03-08-11

Feelings: MKang sent me info about this exiting event hosted by Housing Works Bookstore!

On March 29^th, the Bookstore will be hosting the second annual Taste of Home benefit, hosted by Alexandra Guarnaschelli, Executive Chef of Butter Restaurant and The Darby, and host of Food Network’s Alex’s Day Off.

Also featuring food by:

• Brad Farmerie, Executive Chef of PUBLIC, The Monday Room, Double Crown and Madam Geneva
• Colleen Grapes, Pastry Chef, The Red Cat and The Harrison
• Luis Nieto, Executive Chef, The Palm Tribeca
• And our own Tessa Liebman, Executive Chef of The Works Catering.

This is a wonderful event, and for only $65 it's a steal.
Check out details and buy tickets here: http://www.housingworks.org/events/detail/a-taste-of-home-a-chef-tasting-and-benefit-party-hosted-by-alexandra-g/

My Favorite Thing: Sugar Toast from Panya

Feelings: Carbs are often perceived as evil and have become the blame of all things in the U.S., but having grown up in Japan, I live on carbs, especially rice and noodles. I do try to eat healthy complex carbs such as soba and multi-grain rice just like many other health conscious New Yorkers, but I do have my vice: Japanese baked goods. Sure, I do enjoy melonpan and anpan, but my favorite is Panya's sugar toast. Can it be any better than thickly cut shokupan (Japanese white bread) lightly toasted with butter and sugar?

I like to microwave this for a bit to eat it warm. The sugary butter starts to melt again, and the fluffy white bread soaks up all the buttery juices. Tasty!

Sugar toast is usually available at Panya on Stuyvesant in East Village and Sunrise Mart in Midtown.

Revisit: Food Gallery 32 02-26-2011

Location: 11 W 32nd St.
Time: 2pm
People: RB, CK and myself

Feelings: I usually avoid Midtown on weekends since it reminds me too much of the dreadful work week. But on this particular Saturday, we had a grown-up thing to take care of in Midtown: an appointment with our new accountant. While I tried to keep full attention to what was said during the meeting, it was inevitable for my mind to drift away and think how close the office was to Food Gallery 32.

As we finished the appointment and thought about the overwhelming amount of homework heaped upon us, we relaxed at where else, Food Gallery 32. It seems there have been many changes since the last visit. Their strange central ordering station was gone, and I saw Red Mango next to the beverage area and also something called Crepe Monster on the third floor. They also had plenty of regular sized plastic cups available by the water cooler, so you don't need to spend money on expensive bottled water anymore.

I was also impressed how they maintained their neat and clean atmosphere. They had a cleaning crew on standby at the dining area who would clean up your plates and tables, so we did not see any clutter anywhere. I wish we can get them to come to our apartment.

At the last visit, I enjoyed their noodles, but this time we both tried their bibimbap. My tofu bibimbap was tasty, and the rice was well cooked. RB enjoyed his bulgolgi bibimbap and said it was clean and very yummy fast food. What I enjoyed the most was their miso soup with fish cakes. The texture of fish cakes were interesting, and they soaked up all the delicious flavors from the soup.

As a blogger of Ramen and Friends, I really must try their "Cheese Ramen" soon, but I am just too afraid of what the combination of greasy ramen and lactose might bring. CK also enjoyed this family friendly food court establishment, but as a parent and five inch heel lover, I do wish they had a less scary staircase.

Westerly Closed for Renovation 03-02-2011

Feelings: My beloved natural supermarket near work, Westerly is closed for renovation. I supposed I'll have to walk to Garden of Eden on 9th Avenue or all the way to Whole Foods now.