A mashup of Google Maps and the restaurants reviewed in Twenty Dollars A Dayen-ushttp://www.mapbuilder.net/users/ragingsquid/36734180MapBuilder.Net644972Wed, 21 Feb 2007 12:05:25 -0500http://www.mapbuilder.net/users/ragingsquid/3673440.680902 -73.94968140.680902-73.949681644973Wed, 21 Feb 2007 12:05:25 -0500http://www.mapbuilder.net/users/ragingsquid/36734A&S turned out to be closed, unfortunately, and there weren't even any eye-level windows to peer into (it's literally on the end of one of the rows of car shops). 40.578823 -73.98544440.578823-73.985444710107Sat, 31 Mar 2007 00:37:21 -0400http://www.mapbuilder.net/users/ragingsquid/36734The sandwiches of Alidoro have names, and though the ingredients list isn't all that diverse, you'll need time to figure out which of the many combinations tickles your fancy.  I did a poor job of scanning the menu the first time and ended up with the Pinocchio ($10), which is a rather underwhelming combination of prosciutto, sopressata, mozzarella, sweet peppers, and olive pate. Mind you, that sandwich wasn't underwhelming because of the ingredients, but rather because the ingredients don't fit together terribly well (yes, not all sandwiches are created equal - I'm looking at you, Dagwood Bumstead).  At Alidoro, I've only liked the olive pate, for example, on a sandwich featuring tuna, the special Capitano sandwich ($10.50) featured on a card taped to the front counter, which features a canned Sicilian tuna that will knock your socks off without using mayo, along with Italian baby onions, arugula, and he afore-mentioned olive pate, mozzarella, and sweet peppers.  The card also offers a version with prosciutto, which I think is totally messed up. (Review.) (Update.) (Some more of this.) 40.726149 -74.00247740.726149-74.002477644143Tue, 20 Feb 2007 12:54:52 -0500http://www.mapbuilder.net/users/ragingsquid/36734 40.713991 -73.94890440.713991-73.948904644974Wed, 21 Feb 2007 12:05:25 -0500http://www.mapbuilder.net/users/ragingsquid/3673440.631555 -74.02176740.631555-74.021767644975Wed, 21 Feb 2007 12:05:25 -0500http://www.mapbuilder.net/users/ragingsquid/3673440.624954 -74.13594340.624954-74.135943644976Wed, 21 Feb 2007 12:05:25 -0500http://www.mapbuilder.net/users/ragingsquid/3673440.843477 -73.90342840.843477-73.903428644163Tue, 20 Feb 2007 13:47:35 -0500http://www.mapbuilder.net/users/ragingsquid/36734My definitive Banh Mi experience to date.  Arriving just before they closed (7pm, so hurry if you’re going from work in Manhattan), the staff were extremely friendly and cheerily made my friend and I two of their #1 sandwich.  This was absolutely the messiest sandwich sampled--as we sat on a stoop on 8th Ave. to try and eat the sandwiches, we found that some kind of sauce used was dripping everywhere on both spicy and mild sandwiches. No matter--the juxtaposition of crisp, cold veggies, toasted bread, and warm meat is perfectly rendered, and with added spice, it very nearly is the total package.  Nice tea, too, if you’re into that sort of thing.  Did I mention that this 6” sandwich/meal is $3? (Review.) 40.645476 -73.99941740.645476-73.999417644145Tue, 20 Feb 2007 12:55:52 -0500http://www.mapbuilder.net/users/ragingsquid/36734 40.747509 -73.98663840.747509-73.986638644162Tue, 20 Feb 2007 13:45:27 -0500http://www.mapbuilder.net/users/ragingsquid/36734They are convenient (short walk from Grand St. D), tasty (most of the time, see below), and they have the most intriguing array of Pocky I’ve ever seen before in my life – if you like Samoas (the girl scout cookie) try the chocolate-coconut flavor.  They also have other desserts too, like a coconut sponge-like cake in a pistachio green, and your usual semi-sweet puddings.  Several colored shades of rice, too, that I haven’t tried. As to their sandwiches?  Mostly very good.  I’ve had one where the meat was so cold that it made me wonder if it had been accidentally frozen, but generally (and this is probably about ten times now)  everything is fine.  I think I hit them just before closing the single bad time, so be forewarned if you’re trying to sneak in late one night.  It should be noted that the crumbled pork on this sandwich is barbecued, instead of in a pate. (Review.) 40.720002 -73.99590440.720002-73.995904644977Wed, 21 Feb 2007 12:05:25 -0500http://www.mapbuilder.net/users/ragingsquid/3673440.614304 -74.06633240.614304-74.066332644978Wed, 21 Feb 2007 12:05:25 -0500http://www.mapbuilder.net/users/ragingsquid/3673440.848385 -73.90054840.848385-73.900548644166Tue, 20 Feb 2007 13:49:25 -0500http://www.mapbuilder.net/users/ragingsquid/36734It’s as much of a food axiom as any, though, that if you’re going to overpay for something, it better be delicious, and on that count, Blue Ribbon does not disappoint.  NY Metro correctly identifies the best bargain toast, which is the pepper/egg combination, with a variation on Jane’s Krazy Mixed Up Salt sprinkled on top.  However, I can confirm that the Hummus toast is similarly cost-effective (slightly more expensive, slightly heartier), and if you can stand to pay $3 for cinnamon toast, you’ll be treated the best version of this childhood treat you’ve ever had. (Review.) 40.729378 -74.00394940.729378-74.003949721019Sat, 07 Apr 2007 17:47:51 -0400http://www.mapbuilder.net/users/ragingsquid/36734The fried chicken pieces cooked up nice and moist (as dark meat should, really), but the sauces were pretty canned. The garlic soy basically tasted like Soy Vey Teriyaki sauce, and the spicy honey thing tasted like K.C. Masterpiece and ... er, honey. They should also have their Korean passports confiscated for daring to call that thing "spicy." Forget about not being spicy by Korean standards. That stuff wasn't even spicy by Applebee's standards. And while neither of those aforementioned sauces are necesarily bad, they're not what I go to a restaurant for. Now, if someone could bring Baden Baden's savory rotisserie flavor to Bon Chon's supernatural crispiness, that might just make for the best fried chicken in New York. (Review.) 40.747043 -73.98581740.747043-73.985817644979Wed, 21 Feb 2007 12:05:25 -0500http://www.mapbuilder.net/users/ragingsquid/3673440.770783 -73.73530840.770783-73.735308644980Wed, 21 Feb 2007 12:05:25 -0500http://www.mapbuilder.net/users/ragingsquid/36734Burger Joint is good, but I’m puzzled as to the cult that worships at its wood-paneled altar.  Mid-wolf, I stopped and noted the visually-appealing construction of the burger ($6.50 each), red tomato, green lettuce, purple (red) onions sliced thin, and green pickles shared space with orange cheese and a burger which could have been pinker (medium rare seemed more medium-well).  I was surprised, not having seen the menu, to note the presence of mustard with the usual mayo and ketchup combo, always a pleasant flavor, but too rarely encountered in the burger world.  (Then again, I don’t exactly go adding it when it’s not there.  Clearly I have no point.) The fries ($3), which arrived in a paper bag big enough for a tall boy at a bodega, were good, but not on the level of the Goodburger fries of several months ago, despite possibly being from the same potato cut (I read that on chowhound, I think).  They just lacked that extra flavor "oomph" that used to put McDonalds’ fries over the top, was it the cooking in beef fat?  I’d have to ask the Goodburger folks how they replicated it, but one more obvious problem was that the Burger Joint fries weren’t as salty as they might have been. The $3 milkshake (yes, I went for the coronary trifecta) was on the thin side, which I think is perfect for this context.  Thick milkshakes are great, but they start to feel like more of a dessert and less burger-complementary when you can’t suck them with a straw.  Burger Joint’s version is relatively small, though, same size cup as the soda ($1.50). I enjoyed my meal at Burger Joint but I don’t think it’s a destination, it’s slightly too expensive and slightly less delicious than several more-convenient (to me) alternatives. (Review.) 40.764381 -73.97738640.764381-73.977386645016Wed, 21 Feb 2007 12:05:26 -0500http://www.mapbuilder.net/users/ragingsquid/36734We started with the "geiro lagman" ($6), which is listed rather strangely under "soups."  While the soup version of this dish is available under the title "lagman," the geiro version (under-described as "noodles with meat & vegetables") is more of a noodle dish with toppings.  It's also one of the best things I've eaten on my nearly half-complete journey through the Cheap Eats list.  It features hand-thrown noodles that rival Super Taste's and a sauce that includes tender, fatty chunks of lamb (watch out for the bones!), green and red pepper chunks, green beans, onions and scallions, and it's tied together with a oily red sauce enhanced with ground black pepper.  We practically licked the plate clean, no joke! (Review.) 40.577627 -73.95539740.577627-73.955397722262Sun, 08 Apr 2007 21:55:29 -0400http://www.mapbuilder.net/users/ragingsquid/36734Fortunately, we were clued in on the hard-to-find eggplant delight that is Soslu Patlican ($4), which presents the aubergine in a gently spiced red sauce with tomatoes, garlic, onions, and green peppers.  It tastes almost Italian, and will go perfectly with the freshly baked pide bread that accompanies it to your table. Also worthy of note were a pungent and spicy Acili Ezme ($5.50), which presents finely-diced onions, tomatoes, peppers and walnuts doused with herbs and pomegranate juice.  It'll make you pucker up at the same time it burns, quite a lovely pairing of taste sensations. (Review.) 40.583304 -73.9536740.583304-73.95367644981Wed, 21 Feb 2007 12:05:25 -0500http://www.mapbuilder.net/users/ragingsquid/3673440.746357 -73.98364840.746357-73.983648644982Wed, 21 Feb 2007 12:05:25 -0500http://www.mapbuilder.net/users/ragingsquid/36734You're always at the mercy of a cart guy in terms of which cheese he'll use and how melted it'll be; Carl's offers the Kerry Memorial Poor Cheese Choice Of 2004 (Swiss), as well as Whiz, provolone, and American.  Authentic Philadelphia sandwich-makers recommend Whiz (as do I), but I think you'd be pretty happy with melted American, too.  Provolone's right on the line, man, don't be that guy. (Review.) 40.745829 -73.97805840.745829-73.978058644983Wed, 21 Feb 2007 12:05:25 -0500http://www.mapbuilder.net/users/ragingsquid/3673440.675936 -73.93045940.675936-73.930459644984Wed, 21 Feb 2007 12:05:25 -0500http://www.mapbuilder.net/users/ragingsquid/3673440.716312 -73.99909240.716312-73.999092644985Wed, 21 Feb 2007 12:05:25 -0500http://www.mapbuilder.net/users/ragingsquid/36734A $20/D favorite. (Our very first review.) (Another review.) (Yet another review.) 40.727488 -73.86401840.727488-73.864018644986Wed, 21 Feb 2007 12:05:25 -0500http://www.mapbuilder.net/users/ragingsquid/3673440.642746 -73.95164640.642746-73.951646644176Tue, 20 Feb 2007 13:51:50 -0500http://www.mapbuilder.net/users/ragingsquid/36734You've got to have company to really make this work, budgetarily.  The "small" serving size is a whopping $4.75, but this was plenty enough for both of us, the dish was dwarfed by the serving, to be sure.  A hand-packed pint costs a buck more and is probably a better deal, but get it home quickly. (Review.) 40.723175 -73.99501440.723175-73.995014644987Wed, 21 Feb 2007 12:05:25 -0500http://www.mapbuilder.net/users/ragingsquid/3673440.671143 -73.95039140.671143-73.950391704478Wed, 28 Mar 2007 15:05:13 -0400http://www.mapbuilder.net/users/ragingsquid/36734Corner 28 had a brisk business selling bite-sized Peking duck pieces through an outdoor takeout window, for the very agreeable price of 75 cents each. Even in the middle of the afternoon, in slushy, miserable weather, the line was always teeming with about a dozen people. Each piece consisted about a duck slice about the size of two matchbooks, a few strips of scallion and cucumber, and a (too) generous dab of plum sauce. The wrappers were the soft, steamy Cantonese variety (bao) about the size of a small saucer--it reminded me a bit of White Castle--and the duck was a touch on the fatty side. It may not be the greatest duck in the city, but made for a very nice snack for two of us, and the high turnover ensured that the duck was still moist and steaming when it came out. (Review.) 40.758742 -73.82988540.758742-73.829885644988Wed, 21 Feb 2007 12:05:25 -0500http://www.mapbuilder.net/users/ragingsquid/3673440.727342 -73.98472740.727342-73.984727644224Tue, 20 Feb 2007 15:32:36 -0500http://www.mapbuilder.net/users/ragingsquid/36734All this is worth braving for a breakfast that is large, delicious, and cheap.  $8 will buy you a plate with two eggs to order, two slices of English-style bacon, two sausages, two hunks of black pudding (which consists of pork and/or beef, blood, suet, barley, bread and oatmeal – kosher this breakfast ain’t), home fries, and a cheese-covered slice of stewed tomato.  Ah, yes, and purportedly this ensemble also comes with a choice from four or five breakfast bar drinks (good god, no!) and a basket of Irish soda bread, which was excellent the first time I ate here and failed to arrive the second time I came.  Probably the big group’s fault.  Coffee is, oddly, extra, and a bit on the expensive side, but they DO have heavy cream for you to put in it. (Review.) 40.767156 -73.98358840.767156-73.983588644989Wed, 21 Feb 2007 12:05:25 -0500http://www.mapbuilder.net/users/ragingsquid/36734The platter was an excellent sampler of the meze dips of Syria, sided with two falafel nuggets and two stuffed grape leaves.  The obvious hummus and babaganouj were excellent, but the mtabbal, which seemed to be comprised of garlic mashed up with eggplant and peppers, was good and unique enough that I considered taking home a gallon.  Also worthy of appetizer consideration in summer homes everywhere: the yogurt-y concoction that resembled a cross between tzatziki and cacik (the name escapes me, of course, I didn’t see any takeout menus, and the whole note-taking operation seems so ... professional). (Review.) 40.63146 -74.02180540.63146-74.021805644990Wed, 21 Feb 2007 12:05:25 -0500http://www.mapbuilder.net/users/ragingsquid/3673440.714858 -73.9982840.714858-73.99828722237Sun, 08 Apr 2007 20:53:16 -0400http://www.mapbuilder.net/users/ragingsquid/36734Thanks to the lovely couple who cook at De Guerreros, they're damn good at what they do. Go see for yourself. (Review.) 40.660328 -73.99424440.660328-73.994244644991Wed, 21 Feb 2007 12:05:25 -0500http://www.mapbuilder.net/users/ragingsquid/36734Get to Defonte's, I give the heroes my unqualified recommendation, and, if you get the largest size, you could easily make two meals from it for $10 (the 1/3 size isn't really that much smaller, for what it's worth). Make sure you go on a nice day, though. You'll want to take a stroll down Van Brunt to the waterfront afterwards just to shake off the effects. (Review.) 40.679017 -74.00558940.679017-74.005589644992Wed, 21 Feb 2007 12:05:25 -0500http://www.mapbuilder.net/users/ragingsquid/3673440.825599 -73.94361140.825599-73.943611704480Wed, 28 Mar 2007 15:09:03 -0400http://www.mapbuilder.net/users/ragingsquid/36734A few magazines and newspapers have hopped on the Donovan's bandwagon, calling it the best in the City. I'm afraid I disagree. To be fair, Donovan's makes a very good burger ($7.50, including fries). They use a very high-quality beef that, despite being very juicy, doesn't seem to have the fat that a lot of other patties ooze out. To their credit, they also nailed the cooking, with a nicely charred outside and a perfectly medium-rare inside. The grilled buns were a nice bonus. However, my personal preference is for a lower meat-to-bun ratio, and the burgers at Donovan's were pushing a 1/2 pound. Given the attention they paid to the beef, I was also disappointed that the lettuce was iceberg, not Boston, and that the tomato slice was rather wan and sickly. They do, however, pull a very nice pint (a real pint, too) of Guinness ($6). (Review.) (A more favorable review.) 40.74527 -73.90713540.74527-73.907135644178Tue, 20 Feb 2007 13:56:17 -0500http://www.mapbuilder.net/users/ragingsquid/36734I have no qualms going to a neighborhood where I am obviously out of place, and dealing with the discomfort that entails, provided the food is unlike something I can get elsewhere.  And that's the only problem, really: the burger is merely good, and while its extreme cheapness is attractive ($1.45 for a cheeseburger sided with steak fries), it is less than unique. (Review.) 40.683725 -73.93502140.683725-73.935021644994Wed, 21 Feb 2007 12:05:25 -0500http://www.mapbuilder.net/users/ragingsquid/36734Regrettably (for them, especially), I found no sign of a restaurant with that name at 1915 Coney Island Avenue, what I did find was a restaurant called "Night Dreams‚" that appeared to be shuttered, judging by the amount of mail that was piled on the other side of the locked glass doors. (Review.) 40.610662 -73.96243740.610662-73.962437644995Wed, 21 Feb 2007 12:05:25 -0500http://www.mapbuilder.net/users/ragingsquid/3673440.754708 -73.9224740.754708-73.92247644996Wed, 21 Feb 2007 12:05:25 -0500http://www.mapbuilder.net/users/ragingsquid/36734If you're looking for a retro soda-fountain date locale, Eisenberg's is the place, along with the right drinks, the ambiance is pure early-20th-century lunch counter, right down to the built-in stools and soda-water.  I'd probably avoid the tuna and egg combination if you want to be kissing afterwards, but in any other case, the sandwiches are dynamite, and highly recommended. (Review.) 40.741092 -73.98991340.741092-73.989913644997Wed, 21 Feb 2007 12:05:25 -0500http://www.mapbuilder.net/users/ragingsquid/36734El Huipil's rice was the biggest surprise of the day.  I'd go back just to eat it, and I don't often say that about any kind of rice. The beans were also excellent, as were the corn tortillas provided as a side for the eggs.  The grapefruit Jarritos ($1.50) he ordered tasted just like the Squirt made with real sugar (Clemens' in Windsor Terrace sells Mexican Squirt in glass bottles).  On my side of the table, the chicken enchiladas were drenched in mole and covered (surprisingly) with lettuce and some kind of powdered cheese.  I devoured the lettuce first, taking care to swirl it around in the delicious mole, and tucked into my enchiladas after the greenery was gone. (Review.) 40.678433 -74.01312740.678433-74.013127644998Wed, 21 Feb 2007 12:05:25 -0500http://www.mapbuilder.net/users/ragingsquid/36734I ended up with one taco each of al pastor and carne enchilada ($2.25 a piece), as well as a plate of chilaquiles in the green flavor.  The tacos came first, the tortillas, as insinuated by Mr. Sietsema, are perfectly great (important, too, for the chilaquiles).  The meats‚ well‚ the meats were probably a half-step down from Pio Maya on a bad day, and it was tough to figure out which pork was which.  The al pastor couldn't touch De Guerreros' with a ten-foot tamale, where the Guerreros version was tender and perfectly flavored, El Paisa's was relatively flavorless and crunchy in the way that suggested either inexpert cooking or (more likely) unfortunate reheating.  Carne enchilada seemed kind of like a less-flavorful version of Pio Maya's chorizo, while retaining and worsening the textural issues that arise from the reheating (the fatty portions don't re-render correctly, for instance). The chilaquiles ($7-ish) was better, but not nearly possessing of the level of fire I expected.  The waitress made sure to check and see that I knew the dish was spicy before giving the chef the order, and it STILL was mild.  Maybe there was a miscommunication, it certainly wasn't swimming in green sauce like the Guerreros version was, and perhaps they went easy on me regardless.  It is available with a red sauce, and with meat, chicken, or eggs chucked on top (I went with chicken, which was a good choice).  Interestingly, at the bottom of the plate were some extremely bitter greens that didn't mesh well with the rest of the dish, evidence of the leftovers-catch-all genesis of the dish, I suppose. (Review.) 40.703427 -73.92245140.703427-73.922451679379Sun, 11 Mar 2007 21:42:45 -0400http://www.mapbuilder.net/users/ragingsquid/36734I ended up having nothing but the tacos al suadero, because--well, because they were that good. To my great pleasure, the $2 taco was stuffed to the brim with juicy, well-grilled beef chunks (seriously, this could be the poor man's wagyu steak), beautifully pearly bits of diced onions, and a healthy sprinkle of fresh cilantro. Every leaf was in great shape, sporting just the right shade of green. It was served with a delicious green chile sauce that even featured a few avocado chunks. After just two tacos, I was already stuffed. (Review.) 40.823138 -73.95320940.823138-73.953209644999Wed, 21 Feb 2007 12:05:25 -0500http://www.mapbuilder.net/users/ragingsquid/3673440.758226 -73.80440240.758226-73.804402645000Wed, 21 Feb 2007 12:05:25 -0500http://www.mapbuilder.net/users/ragingsquid/36734Walking into Ennju at lunchtime is like driving slowly through a strip mall parking lot, you barely have time to contemplate the sushi case, the soups, the buffet salad bar, or the bento specials before someone whisks up behind you laying on the proverbial horn.  Resist the urge to grab and go, stepping back and taking it all in is the only way to find the excellent bento boxes, combining a peanut-flavored diced chicken or salmon with egg and shaved green beans on a bed of rice.($6). I hit the real home run, though, with the Korean ice cream sandwich.  At $1.50, it's a steal, even for this devotee of H.P. Hood's summer treats: the slightly coffee-tasting ice cream with chocolate bits (it ends up being somewhat like cookies and cream) lies between two thin sponge cake layers.  It's a real sandwich, on the thinnest Wonder-cake you've ever seen.  Too bad the summer ice cream trucks don't sell these; I'd reconsider my hatred of their tinkling theme music. (Review.) 40.737367 -73.9909840.737367-73.99098645001Wed, 21 Feb 2007 12:05:25 -0500http://www.mapbuilder.net/users/ragingsquid/3673440.758423 -73.82942340.758423-73.829423645002Wed, 21 Feb 2007 12:05:25 -0500http://www.mapbuilder.net/users/ragingsquid/3673440.780658 -73.98154140.780658-73.981541645003Wed, 21 Feb 2007 12:05:25 -0500http://www.mapbuilder.net/users/ragingsquid/36734I walked to the back counter and asked for the chicken in palm oil, no dice.  I suppose a better option would have been to ask what was available that day, but I ended up with the proprietor-recommended hacked up fish parts in a red-brown sauce (it had a little kick) with the most enormous plate of rice I’ve ever seen, the same as everyone else in the restaurant, except that my rice was served on a plate instead of in a bowl.  The sauce was excellent and the rice was fine, I’m just not that wild about bone-in fish chopped into large chunks, though.  If I had managed to procure a different meat option, this would have been quite the gut bomb meal (I mean, seriously, that looked like a whole box of Uncle Ben’s). (Review.) 40.671987 -73.95748640.671987-73.957486645004Wed, 21 Feb 2007 12:05:25 -0500http://www.mapbuilder.net/users/ragingsquid/3673440.737219 -73.70913740.737219-73.709137645005Wed, 21 Feb 2007 12:05:25 -0500http://www.mapbuilder.net/users/ragingsquid/3673440.802733 -73.95661940.802733-73.956619706775Thu, 29 Mar 2007 11:38:03 -0400http://www.mapbuilder.net/users/ragingsquid/36734We  didn't find the caldo gallego that Sietsema described in his entry on the list on either the menu or the neighboring daily specials list.  Needless to say, I was scratching my head.  Fortunately, just before the waitress arrived to take our order, I remembered that Sietsema loves to order stuff from chalkboard special menus, and I looked to my right and found the chalkboard containing our salvation - $4 bowls of the caldo gallego and, for my friend, a $6.50 half roast chicken. Neither of these dishes required any prep time, we were served posthaste.  I tucked happily into my soup, pausing occasionally to soak one of the toasted pieces of bread that we were supplied with in the thick broth.  This was great soup.  It's built on the leafy green known as kale, which is not exactly the same as collard greens (but close), big chunks of potatoes, white beans, slices of what I believe was tripe, chunks of bony meat that Sietsema dubs pork foot, and chorizo. My friend's chicken was tender and juicy, though lacking in the distinctive flavor that I had come to expect from rotisserie chicken following my Pio Pio experience.  It was sided with a large portion of white rice and a cup of very good black beans, two could easily share a half chicken with these sides included. (Review.) 40.844164 -73.93911540.844164-73.939115645006Wed, 21 Feb 2007 12:05:25 -0500http://www.mapbuilder.net/users/ragingsquid/3673440.626573 -74.0767840.626573-74.07678645007Wed, 21 Feb 2007 12:05:25 -0500http://www.mapbuilder.net/users/ragingsquid/3673440.835469 -73.90792740.835469-73.907927704381Wed, 28 Mar 2007 14:21:14 -0400http://www.mapbuilder.net/users/ragingsquid/36734For $7.50 (up from $6 at opening day), you can gorge yourself on soft, buttery biscuits with sausage gravy, or chicken fried steak (pounded flank steak fried like a chicken), both topped with eggs in a style of your choosing.  Also available, and on the "lighter" side, are the large omelettes, pancakes (with real maple syrup), and a $5 special basic breakfast with eggs and sausage, etc.  Cheese grits are available, but of questionable budgetary value, at $3. (Review.) 40.688337 -73.98957740.688337-73.989577645008Wed, 21 Feb 2007 12:05:25 -0500http://www.mapbuilder.net/users/ragingsquid/3673440.663011 -73.95091440.663011-73.950914645009Wed, 21 Feb 2007 12:05:25 -0500http://www.mapbuilder.net/users/ragingsquid/3673440.762399 -73.83163540.762399-73.831635644231Tue, 20 Feb 2007 15:44:51 -0500http://www.mapbuilder.net/users/ragingsquid/36734One of my favorite Uptown spots for a cheap, quick dinner, the steam tables here have near-infinite varieties of vegan soul food offerings, and their mock stir fries are always solid, as are the curried potatoes.  I was hoping for a bit more in the quality of the roti bread (this place apparently being Guyanese-owned and all), but they more than make up for it with their great prices and great selection.  Portions are huge, and 12 bucks will easily feed two two people, so bring a friend.  There's also a nice, quiet dining area in the back, including a garden when the weather is nice.40.807035 -73.94405540.807035-73.944055644156Tue, 20 Feb 2007 13:13:37 -0500http://www.mapbuilder.net/users/ragingsquid/36734This place is both bizarre and wonderful at the same time.  Obviously not accustomed to the gringo customers yet (signs are only in Cantonese, though the paper menu is also in English), the staff are friendly, if sometimes thick-accented.  The décor is strictly fast food, of course, but in a twist I’ve only seen before in Europe, they have an attendant to bus your table. As to the food, you have your choice of about seven or eight kinds of noodles made of egg or rice, mostly Chinese, though there are some similar ones to the Minca noodles and Momofuku noodles.  You can choose about 25 different toppings to go with them in your broth.  Now, why is this fusiony fast food shop, which also offers toast and several other items more English than Southeast Asian, the winner--particularly when some of the optional toppings (like the blood or gizzards) are unlikely to get any run in your bowl? It all boils down (oy!) to price.  The basic noodle/broth combo costs $1.  Each topping additionally costs $1.  So, if you get Beef Shin, a fried egg, and mushrooms, as I did on one recent jaunt, you have a $4 delicious meal.  If you screw up and get Beef Stew, curried fish balls, or some other ingredient of that has polluted your bowl (the former), or that you aren’t fond of (the latter), you’re not out a whole lot of money.  Experiment and be merry!  Don’t miss the lemonade with Ribena (British blackberry syrup), either. (Review.) 40.71698 -73.99481740.71698-73.994817645010Wed, 21 Feb 2007 12:05:25 -0500http://www.mapbuilder.net/users/ragingsquid/3673440.810727 -73.95076440.810727-73.950764722256Sun, 08 Apr 2007 21:45:08 -0400http://www.mapbuilder.net/users/ragingsquid/36734Today's order included the pumpkin kibbeh sandwich ($4), which I can describe only as a ground meatloaf-like concoction that looks superficially like an orange falafel ball.  (No meat in this one, though a lamb-based kibbeh is also available.)  It proved a delicious sandwich accoutrement with tahini sauce, though the lettuce and barely acceptable tomatoes ended up taking most of the volume between the layers of pita. (Review.) 40.733598 -74.00614540.733598-74.006145645011Wed, 21 Feb 2007 12:05:26 -0500http://www.mapbuilder.net/users/ragingsquid/36734It was quite a revelation, both for quality of food and for mind-blowing cheapness.   The hummus is warm, unlike the store-bought hummus you might be used to, and considerably more cream-of-wheat-like in texture; the analog to maple syrup on cream of wheat is olive oil, which turns out to be a very good complementary flavor.  You can get your bowl o’ hummus with whole chickpeas and tahini, hot or cold, or my (and Sietsema’s) favorite with fava bean stew (foul, pronounced like "fool‚") and a chopped hardboiled egg. (Review.) 40.727372 -73.98479840.727372-73.984798645012Wed, 21 Feb 2007 12:05:26 -0500http://www.mapbuilder.net/users/ragingsquid/3673440.733346 -74.00256240.733346-74.002562645013Wed, 21 Feb 2007 12:05:26 -0500http://www.mapbuilder.net/users/ragingsquid/3673440.739855 -73.78938240.739855-73.789382704479Wed, 28 Mar 2007 15:06:37 -0400http://www.mapbuilder.net/users/ragingsquid/36734Depending on your perspective, this place is either charmingly run-down, or just downright shabby. What it does promise, however, is an intriguing bastion of no-frills authenticity within its narrow, L-shaped corridor. Unfortunately, I was ill-prepared for its offerings, having brought no Chinese dictionary or Mandarin-speaking friends with me (all the menus were written in Chinese characters). I did manage to try a lovely leek dumpling about the size of a grapefruit (a whopping 75 cents) stuffed with a generous helping of diced garlic, a scrambled egg binder, and some small bits of glass noodles. A smaller lamb dumpling (45 cents) was fairly bland, and certainly not worth such a long trip. We also saw stands selling fresh noodles, bing (which resemble crepes), and (perhaps?) a few Sichuan stalls. (Review.) 40.75589 -73.82869240.75589-73.828692645014Wed, 21 Feb 2007 12:05:26 -0500http://www.mapbuilder.net/users/ragingsquid/3673440.834237 -73.90983540.834237-73.909835645015Wed, 21 Feb 2007 12:05:26 -0500http://www.mapbuilder.net/users/ragingsquid/3673440.746505 -73.89413940.746505-73.894139645017Wed, 21 Feb 2007 12:05:26 -0500http://www.mapbuilder.net/users/ragingsquid/36734While the $9.25-ish plate of a split and cross-hatched kielbasa with a microwave-burrito-looking potato blintz was satisfying, it wasn’t necessarily the greatest thing since shaved horseradish (speaking of which, I was pleased that the jarred variety was included with the plate, along with sour cream and applesauce for the blintz).  Better bargains are available on and off Manhattan Avenue north of the park, I think.  That said, if you were geographically limited to two blocks from the Bedford L, you could do a lot worse. (Review.) 40.718833 -73.95660640.718833-73.956606706774Thu, 29 Mar 2007 11:34:11 -0400http://www.mapbuilder.net/users/ragingsquid/36734Apparently part of a chain that includes at least a midtown branch and the less-than-satisfying Indian Bread Company around the corner, Kati Roll was a very frequent destination of mine last year.  Again, I've not been back in a while, but little has changed, the Bollywood movie posters still hang on the wall, and the prices ($3.50-$4.50 for most rolls, with a two-roll deal that knocks a buck or so off the price) haven't changed. Also not changing is the inconsistency of the food.  I've had paneer (cheese) rolls there, when warmed enough and with fresh bread, that truly were great.  I've also had the very same paneer rolls be heated not nearly enough and be drab.  Given that my two favorites there are the paneer and the aloo (potato) rolls (I think the meats are too dry, the reheating doesn't work as well), I would advise that, if you get a paneer roll, watch it like a hawk to make sure it stays on the grill long enough, and eat it in-store. (Review.) 40.729537 -74.00112140.729537-74.001121645018Wed, 21 Feb 2007 12:05:26 -0500http://www.mapbuilder.net/users/ragingsquid/3673440.720224 -73.98732540.720224-73.987325645019Wed, 21 Feb 2007 12:05:26 -0500http://www.mapbuilder.net/users/ragingsquid/36734Appears closed. 40.763309 -73.8300340.763309-73.83003645020Wed, 21 Feb 2007 12:05:26 -0500http://www.mapbuilder.net/users/ragingsquid/36734Unfortunately it's still more expensive than most of the places on the list (only cheaper than AQ Cafe and the late and lamented Philoxenia, off the top of my head), but I'm sure that the lunch deals are more cost-effective, and it might well be cheaper than the average 32nd Street place.  The decor is nice, though, and my roommate described it as the perfect date location.  That is, as long as your date likes kimchee. Happy to say that the food hasn't changed from what I remember, never truly transcendent, but it's definitely quality stuff.  I had the succinctly-monikered "pork," which actually would be called pork bulgoki in many places ($14).  It presents a skillet full of pork in a chile sauce, a side place of lettuce to wrap them up in, and a little dipping sauce.  It kind of comes off like Korean fajitas, I suppose. (Review.) 40.727692 -73.98556240.727692-73.985562645021Wed, 21 Feb 2007 12:05:26 -0500http://www.mapbuilder.net/users/ragingsquid/3673440.628517 -74.07665340.628517-74.076653644154Tue, 20 Feb 2007 13:11:44 -0500http://www.mapbuilder.net/users/ragingsquid/36734 40.792257 -73.94583740.792257-73.945837645022Wed, 21 Feb 2007 12:05:26 -0500http://www.mapbuilder.net/users/ragingsquid/36734We demolished two loaves of the bread just finishing the sauce and the excellent hummus ($4-ish), unusual for me, because I'm usually saving room for the main dish.  Also notable and served free to us was a dish full of green olives and chopped veggies, the olives (and I'm not usually a big fan) were quite good. Of course, after the hors d'orgy, we over-ordered mains, but I don't feel like I could have escaped without trying both a tajine and a couscous (both in the $12 range).  The tajine we ordered was the house version, with peas, carrots, artichoke hearts, and potatoes in a brown sauce that reminded me a bit of my mother's beef stew.  The merguez that (our requested meat) looked more like Jimmy Dean than Bedouin Tent, but the taste was agreeable, if not quite up to the Tent's high (and spicy) standards, and the sausage was thankfully free of grease. The couscous (interestingly also served in a tajine, I have no idea if this is typical) was sweet in an earthy kind of way, with golden raisins, prunes, and dates.  This was probably a poor pairing with a strongly-flavored lamb shank that had good tenderness but was a little dry (sounds odd, but I can't think of how else to describe it).  The pasta itself was cooked to what seemed to me to be the right level of stickiness, and I'd order it again with a more neutral meat (or just by itself). (Review.) 40.62821 -74.02365240.62821-74.023652645023Wed, 21 Feb 2007 12:05:26 -0500http://www.mapbuilder.net/users/ragingsquid/36734This West African restaurant, though delicious, is now currently closed.  I've heard rumors about reopening at another locations, though, and hope to see it open its doors again soon. 40.807978 -73.95277440.807978-73.952774645024Wed, 21 Feb 2007 12:05:26 -0500http://www.mapbuilder.net/users/ragingsquid/36734Sietsema, whose list carries this restaurant at number 41, talked up the fried pork chop sided with beans ($7.75), and I ordered exactly that, with beans of the red variety.  As promised, the beans were perfect.  Stewed to the perfect consistency of soft, without disintegrating, these beans (served on a separate plate with rice, which was decent) were excellent. (Review.) 40.740233 -74.00216540.740233-74.002165710106Sat, 31 Mar 2007 00:32:29 -0400http://www.mapbuilder.net/users/ragingsquid/36734We were a little cheered by our success at finding a traditional Irish meal, however, corned beef and cabbage at the Lyric Diner (3rd Ave. at 22nd St.).  The $16 special was only advertised in the window and not by our somewhat annoyed waiter (we did take a while to make up our collective minds), but my friend and I agreed it was a fair imitation of the goodness that was likely being served next door at Molly Malone's.  Including hunks of cabbage, strips of corned beef, and enormous skinned potatoes, the meal proved an excellent base for a late night of Guinness drinking for me, and a fine interim between afternoon and evening drinking from my friend. The other four people at the table didn't order the special, but expressed general satisfaction at their burgers and soup.  So I'm not sure if this qualifies as a recommendation, but if you need some corned beef and cabbage on St. Patrick's Day and don't want to wait in line, Lyric Diner is a fine choice. (Review.) 40.737872 -73.98365840.737872-73.983658713277Tue, 03 Apr 2007 11:19:34 -0400http://www.mapbuilder.net/users/ragingsquid/36734Although they make some of the city's best fried chicken and, usually, collard greens (when it's on, it's full of silky, porky deliciousness; when it's not, it's a bit of a disappointment), they're at their best at breakfast for one simple reason: they make the best grits I've had in New York. (Review.) 40.811301 -73.95339840.811301-73.953398645025Wed, 21 Feb 2007 12:05:26 -0500http://www.mapbuilder.net/users/ragingsquid/36734nation, it's only a couple bucks more than two skewers by their lonesome, I was told. Opting for the ground beef kofte was a smart choice, as it is among the most flavorful ground beef products I've tasted recently. The grape tomatoes that separated the portions of meat on the skewer were deemed "perfect" by my cohort, too. The lamb was equally satisfying, the tender morsels did not succumb to dryness. I wouldn't say the sides were as good, the rice with lentils and onions was fine, if not particularly noteworthy (the onions redeemed it from total mediocrity). The best part of the ostensibly home-cut fries was the crispy bits at the bottom of the bowl, that, and dipping them in the hummus, I guess. Flavor was only so-so. (Review.) 40.606492 -73.96572440.606492-73.965724645026Wed, 21 Feb 2007 12:05:26 -0500http://www.mapbuilder.net/users/ragingsquid/36734The macaroni and cheese is, indeed, quite tasty, I'll give them that much.  But the veggies and starch really leave something to be desired.  They're served cold!  I realize that the afore-mentioned menu explains that they're served that way because "Mama" said to do so, but I have a feeling that this "Mama" isn't the sort I'd want making my holiday dinners.  The egregious laziness of cold vegetables is made particularly obvious by the presence of a microwave (WTF?) near the cash register (and, for what it's worth, I don't care that they're crispy as hell because they're made in a convection oven if you've still got to nuke them like they're week-old leftovers). (Review.) 40.722742 -73.9831640.722742-73.98316722261Sun, 08 Apr 2007 21:50:52 -0400http://www.mapbuilder.net/users/ragingsquid/36734I'm not sure Mandler's would satisfy the average German, and there are a few reasons why, but the most obvious is egregious: no good senf!  Senf is the German word for mustard, and while Mandler's most assuredly has plenty of mustard, they lack the kind of senf that is a staple accompaniment to each and every sausage served in Germany and Austria.  Germans and Austrians, as far as I'm aware, do not fool around with things like honey or maple mustards, and to have no plain variety available is unconscionable bordering on T.G.I. Fridays-ish.  While the "three peppercorn" Dijon mustard is the closest and least-strangely adulterated of the bunch, it ain't exactly right. (Review.) 40.737142 -73.99076540.737142-73.990765706589Thu, 29 Mar 2007 10:28:58 -0400http://www.mapbuilder.net/users/ragingsquid/36734The kimchi mandoo ($8) were especially good.  Shredded pickled cabbage and other veggies share space in your steamed dough with tofu and pork, and the flavor comes out somewhat mustard-like.  The goon mandoo ($8) weren't as good, they came out a bit too soon, I thought, to be freshly fried, and the grease factor was a little more than I expected.  The filling (pork and vegetable) was fine. (Review.) 40.747166 -73.98579540.747166-73.985795645027Wed, 21 Feb 2007 12:05:26 -0500http://www.mapbuilder.net/users/ragingsquid/36734 40.742968 -73.91847840.742968-73.918478710108Sat, 31 Mar 2007 00:40:24 -0400http://www.mapbuilder.net/users/ragingsquid/36734I know I often slag places that can't seem to find their spice rack, but for some reason, Mee Noodle Shop didn't provoke that reaction in me, even before I realized just how cheap my meal was.  In fact, I'd gladly go back, even though I'm sort of scratching my head as to why.  Mee Noodle Shop, the ultimate in unaccountably pleasing blandness!  I really should go into advertising. (Review.) 40.765229 -73.98789540.765229-73.987895710109Sat, 31 Mar 2007 00:42:58 -0400http://www.mapbuilder.net/users/ragingsquid/36734(Hell's Kitchen review.)  I know I often slag places that can't seem to find their spice rack, but for some reason, Mee Noodle Shop didn't provoke that reaction in me, even before I realized just how cheap my meal was.  In fact, I'd gladly go back, even though I'm sort of scratching my head as to why.  Mee Noodle Shop, the ultimate in unaccountably pleasing blandness!  I really should go into advertising. (Review.)40.742563 -73.97772740.742563-73.977727645028Wed, 21 Feb 2007 12:05:26 -0500http://www.mapbuilder.net/users/ragingsquid/36734Memo might not be the absolute best doner kebap I've ever had, but it's hard to be certain, since it's competing mostly against distant memories (almost four years since I was in Graz, astonishing).  At any rate, I'm glad delicious doner is once again just a train ride away, a longer distance than when I lived in Europe, but certainly shorter and cheaper than a plane there.  And for those hangover days, there's nothing better. (Review.) 40.609909 -73.95542740.609909-73.955427706688Thu, 29 Mar 2007 11:02:01 -0400http://www.mapbuilder.net/users/ragingsquid/36734Easily the worst place I've eaten in recent memory, and a strong contender for worst ever.  I can say without hesitation that, if I was surprised to see chile rellenos on the menu, the chef must have been doubly or trebly surprised to see them ordered, they came out with the coating (which I assume was an attempt at pan or deep frying) roughly the texture of driftwood, and without the pleasant salty taste.  I mean, this stuff tasted like shit.  Picking it off, I managed to salvage some of the chiles, which didn't seem very stuffed, but were at least somewhat edible. (Review.) 40.689382 -73.99233740.689382-73.992337644159Tue, 20 Feb 2007 13:26:33 -0500http://www.mapbuilder.net/users/ragingsquid/36734Also resident on the Voice 2005 list, I’ve never seen Minca crowded, and their menu, I’m assured, is much more traditional.  Tsukemen Ramen, wherein the broth and noodles arrive separately, the latter to be dipped in the former, is one of the most novel variations I’ve seen; more standard Shoyu (soy) and garlic and oil broths exist, and for a few more bucks, you can put extra slices of their divine pork in any soup.  Be SURE to let it sit in the broth for a few minutes at least; the longer you wait, the better the pork gets. (Review.) 40.724627 -73.98413340.724627-73.984133644157Tue, 20 Feb 2007 13:17:45 -0500http://www.mapbuilder.net/users/ragingsquid/36734It IS on the more expensive side of the ramen equation, and it's defiantly untraditional, if that matters to you. If you must go, the pork ramen will be your best bet, but stay away, if possible, from the too-expensive bottled beer. (Review.)40.728989 -73.98455640.728989-73.984556645031Wed, 21 Feb 2007 12:05:26 -0500http://www.mapbuilder.net/users/ragingsquid/36734With a low-key atmosphere, friendly service, and appealing menu choices, Mooncake would be a bigger hit, I'm guessing, if it were a bit closer to civilization (it reminds me, for some reason, of Bonnie's, on 5th Avenue in Park Slope, despite a totally different culinary aesthetic).  I'd definitely go back to Mooncake if I was in the area, but it's absolutely more of a "what's good around here" place rather than a destination.  The prices sure are agreeable, though, and maybe that's what would change for the worse if they had a more prominent location. (Review.) 40.723548 -74.00440840.723548-74.004408645032Wed, 21 Feb 2007 12:05:26 -0500http://www.mapbuilder.net/users/ragingsquid/36734New Bai Wei Gourmet Food Inc., at 51 Division Street (and #17 on the Sietsema list) may or may not exist any longer.  I say "may or may not" because I ate at a restaurant that matched Sietsema’s description of New Bai Wei, but the name on the sign had changed to "Yi Mei."  Whether this is merely a different transliteration of Bai Wei or a different name, I’m unsure of. The lady at the counter recommended the spare ribs, which came off something like sweet and sour pork.  A gringo favorite, I’m sure.  I liked better the slightly sweetened tofu, though there was nothing terribly unique about that one, either.  I also requested the duck, which unfortunately ended up being mostly fat and bone.  Fortunately, I liked the greenery better: the baby bok choy was as oily and crunchy as it should be. As Sietsema’s blurb had claimed that five dishes, not four, would be bought for $2.75, I was a bit disappointed when the counter lady said four.  So she sold me a fifth dish for an extra 50 cents, I selected some kind of intestine (at least, I think that’s what she said it was), which came off more or less like a leftover pork belly dosed with a sauce that looked spicy but wasn’t, at all.  Probably wouldn’t order it again. (Review.) 40.71424 -73.99452340.71424-73.994523704476Wed, 28 Mar 2007 14:58:26 -0400http://www.mapbuilder.net/users/ragingsquid/36734Even on a cold day, my three-piece special (which actually included four pieces and came in at just under $4 with a side of rather forgetable fries) was steaming hot as I snacked on it in nearby Trinity Cemetery (it's not nearly as creepy as it sounds, trust me). Even the white meat pieces held their own, although they do tend to dry out a bit faster. But what makes (or made) New Caporal so good is the heavily spiced, extra-crunchy crust--laden with pungent dried garlic and bits of cumin (I'm told the bird itself is marinated in a garlic/citrus mojo sauce, too, but it's hard to tell). It was unfortunate, then, that the crust has been tasting a little dry and--I daresay--a touch tough as of late. (Review.) 40.833711 -73.94477340.833711-73.944773645033Wed, 21 Feb 2007 12:05:26 -0500http://www.mapbuilder.net/users/ragingsquid/3673440.618886 -74.08098340.618886-74.080983645034Wed, 21 Feb 2007 12:05:26 -0500http://www.mapbuilder.net/users/ragingsquid/3673440.631566 -74.02176340.631566-74.021763644161Tue, 20 Feb 2007 13:43:21 -0500http://www.mapbuilder.net/users/ragingsquid/36734A fair introduction to banh mi, and a good place to take someone of questionable adventurousness.  After all, they have (in addition to the traditional) a thin pork chop variety and even a vegetarian option built from a Portobello mushroom.  Try the Lychee juice box, too--not bitter, like many lychee-based drinks are, and I doubt you’ve had a juice box in over ten years, right?  Caveat: the sandwiches are smaller and a dollar ($4) more expensive than the Chinatown standard price. (Review.) 40.723021 -73.98538340.723021-73.985383645036Wed, 21 Feb 2007 12:05:26 -0500http://www.mapbuilder.net/users/ragingsquid/36734Walking in and beholding the hand-painted menu, I was reminded of a Cape Cod seafood shack, though the fare is admittedly a lot cheaper at Nio’s, where four bucks will buy you the eponymous and enormous burrito-style wrap.  Your roti will be filled with curried potatoes and chickpeas as well as some kind of meat, if you wish.  Don’t miss the hot sauce, which the maker of your roti will apply for you.  Pay up and lug it back to your table, or be prepared to make a mess of yourself if you eat it on the go (the skin isn’t exactly the strongest pouch for the goo inside).  They also have a full array of juice possibilities. (Review.) 40.650681 -73.95236240.650681-73.952362645037Wed, 21 Feb 2007 12:05:26 -0500http://www.mapbuilder.net/users/ragingsquid/3673440.629951 -74.10969640.629951-74.109696645038Wed, 21 Feb 2007 12:05:26 -0500http://www.mapbuilder.net/users/ragingsquid/36734I opted for the schwarma sandwich. Unfortunately, it wasn’t all that and a bag of chips, I thought the meat (supposedly a mixture of turkey and lamb) was dry, almost disconcertingly lacking in fat, and kind of flavorless. That said, the excellent toppings (including pickles, red cabbage, and marinated onions) brought the quality up considerably, and the spicy sauce was most excellent, indeed. I’d definitely go back to Oasis, though the meat I had wasn’t great, I’m sure that the shish kebab or taouk would be better, and the mini-pizzas in the front case looked especially intriguing. (Review.) 40.717708 -73.95751540.717708-73.957515705599Wed, 28 Mar 2007 23:19:31 -0400http://www.mapbuilder.net/users/ragingsquid/36734Although I was happy to see that pieces of the mahogany skin were cut and served to us separately, I was disappointed to see that they all came with a layer of fat almost an eighth of an inch thick--by the end, we had to scrape it off with our spoons. Worse, the duck meat was hacked up Cantonese-style (bones included), not sliced, making it rather impractical to eat inside a mushu wrapper. In the end, this potential deal turned out to be a big bust--little more than regular roast duck hiding in a souped-up Peking facade. (Review.) 40.719029 -73.99589440.719029-73.995894645039Wed, 21 Feb 2007 12:05:26 -0500http://www.mapbuilder.net/users/ragingsquid/3673440.753055 -73.97394940.753055-73.973949645040Wed, 21 Feb 2007 12:05:26 -0500http://www.mapbuilder.net/users/ragingsquid/36734The Capitan Noodles were one of the most delicious things I’ve ever eaten.  A kind of chow-fun-like dish with flat, broad noodles and what I’m guessing is a black bean sauce, based on the slight sweetness-without-sugar that black bean dishes often possess.  It also contains various types of seafood and meat chunks, most notably shrimp, squid, and beef (maybe chicken too, I forget).  Absolutely recommended, totally non-spicy for you sensitive types, this was in my head like eating the Asian version of buttered noodles. (Review.) 40.714784 -73.99155840.714784-73.991558722252Sun, 08 Apr 2007 21:40:36 -0400http://www.mapbuilder.net/users/ragingsquid/36734Anyway, as to the burger at P.J. Clarke's, very nearly as good as the Donovan's masterpiece of two weeks ago.  The burger ($9.70) was perfectly cooked to medium rare, very juicy without being raw, and with an appealing flavor (both the meat itself and with the bacon and cheese).  Warning: the burger arrives without any sides, other than a slice of white onion and a half-sour quarter-pickle.  You may want to complement the burger with the excellent French fries, but they are a little pricey at $3.50. (Review.) 40.759062 -73.96823340.759062-73.968233704474Wed, 28 Mar 2007 14:56:04 -0400http://www.mapbuilder.net/users/ragingsquid/36734I'm willing to pit Pacificana against some of the best dim sum I've had in Manhattan.  The ribbed tripe, wading in a small bath of light, savory broth, was a happy discovery--it had the snap of, say, jellyfish (or, for the uninitiated, a springier, slightly rubbery pasta?) and was gently steamed with scallion, ginger, and the tiniest slices of hot peppers. The honeycomb tripe was a bit too intense even for me, and I've never been a huge fan of chicken feet (although the dish here was much less gummier than the ones I've had before). The wrapping on the cheong fun had just the right hint of sweetness, and more than made up for the mediocre quality of the shrimp itself (although, to be fair, the vast majority of shrimp out there is farmed and bland, even at fancy restaurants). Maybe it was because everything else was so unusual, but the shrimp dumplings were neither good nor bad--the only really standard thing there. (Review.) 40.638176 -74.00609440.638176-74.006094645041Wed, 21 Feb 2007 12:05:26 -0500http://www.mapbuilder.net/users/ragingsquid/3673440.762029 -73.9186240.762029-73.91862645042Wed, 21 Feb 2007 12:05:26 -0500http://www.mapbuilder.net/users/ragingsquid/3673440.755493 -73.97098140.755493-73.970981645043Wed, 21 Feb 2007 12:05:26 -0500http://www.mapbuilder.net/users/ragingsquid/3673440.767482 -73.91210740.767482-73.912107710153Sat, 31 Mar 2007 01:15:00 -0400http://www.mapbuilder.net/users/ragingsquid/36734 40.797101 -73.93483340.797101-73.934833645044Wed, 21 Feb 2007 12:05:26 -0500http://www.mapbuilder.net/users/ragingsquid/36734Closed. (Review, from when it was open.) 40.776382 -73.91578440.776382-73.915784704409Wed, 28 Mar 2007 14:48:06 -0400http://www.mapbuilder.net/users/ragingsquid/36734The Matador combo hits another gear, you don’t just get some crappy fries or chorizo with it, you get a TON of salchipapas (fries and sausage cooked together, to blend flavors).  Apparently this is a hugely popular street food in Peru, and I take my hat off to the Peruvian people for their inventiveness. (Review.) 40.779615 -73.94717640.779615-73.947176644177Tue, 20 Feb 2007 13:53:17 -0500http://www.mapbuilder.net/users/ragingsquid/36734I just had the worst burger(s) of my life at Pop Burger on 9th Ave. at 14th St.  Honestly, the proprietor should be shot. (Review.) 40.741424 -74.0048840.741424-74.00488645046Wed, 21 Feb 2007 12:05:26 -0500http://www.mapbuilder.net/users/ragingsquid/3673440.72924 -74.0013840.72924-74.00138645047Wed, 21 Feb 2007 12:05:26 -0500http://www.mapbuilder.net/users/ragingsquid/36734PressToast, I'm happy to say, has improved, they've added a small seating area and have expanded their menu to include the Israeli wraps known as Mallawah, added sliced chicken to their list of potential toast/wrap ingredients, and upped their dressing possibilities by including Russian and honey mustard.  I tried the new chicken avocado toast ($4), which also included tomatoes, onions, and ranch dressing.  Quite good, I didn't notice the ranch as much as I thought, but warmed avocadoes, tomatoes, and onions always do me right, and the chicken was a nice touch, too.  I also remember them having a mean mint lemonade, but I didn't try it this time. (Review.) 40.729594 -74.0008340.729594-74.00083710152Sat, 31 Mar 2007 01:08:02 -0400http://www.mapbuilder.net/users/ragingsquid/36734The menu, for the unfamiliar, is written on a daily basis, based on availably fresh ingredients, greenmarket produce, organic, etc.  I mention this not because it's any guarantee of goodness, but rather to warn that the dish I liked, or that you heard recommended in some other article, probably won't be available.  It's probably good if you're open to new flavor and texture combinations, at least. Despite being slightly overpriced (I give credit for the home-made factor, like Shopsin's), the food has the capability of being unique and amazing, though, with only four entrees, you've got to make sure everyone's willing to eat anything.  As for getting there, it still sucks.  Cursed G-train, why do you taunt the hipsters and the Polish people so? (Review.) 40.734358 -73.95815240.734358-73.958152706615Thu, 29 Mar 2007 10:36:24 -0400http://www.mapbuilder.net/users/ragingsquid/36734The lamb with pita was excellent.  Buttery pita with tender, flavorful lamb, and just the right amount of veggies and a flavorful (some might say spicy, it wasn't extremely so) sauce, it more than made up for the lost hours of my life in search of computer parts.  At $5.75, on the expensive end of cart food, but on the far-low end of the restaurant price range, and this food tasted like it was made at a good restaurant. (Review.) 40.756648 -73.98301340.756648-73.983013645048Wed, 21 Feb 2007 12:05:26 -0500http://www.mapbuilder.net/users/ragingsquid/3673440.854418 -73.86828740.854418-73.868287645049Wed, 21 Feb 2007 12:05:26 -0500http://www.mapbuilder.net/users/ragingsquid/36734The calamari ($9), which arrived last, was by far the best dish, and the least generic.  Fresh, perfectly fried, and flavorful, this was among the best presentations of that oft-abused shellfish I've ever tasted.  We had forgotten to order the spicy dipping sauce, but I daresay that it would have been unnecessary.  These squid are good enough to eat sans sauce. My Rocco's suggestion?  Wait for a baking hot summer's day (Mermaid Parade or Siren Festival time, perhaps?) and check out Coney Island.  On the way back, take the N to Fort Hamilton Parkway and walk the four blocks to Rocco's.  Celebrate your independence from the dirty, sweaty hipsters by reveling in Rocco's air-conditioning (the menu advertises it, so it must work well!), calamari, and beer.  Jug wine also available. (Review.) 40.631033 -74.00859540.631033-74.008595645050Wed, 21 Feb 2007 12:05:26 -0500http://www.mapbuilder.net/users/ragingsquid/36734The skin was freshly prepared (had to wait five minutes, even) and relatively stronger than the usual dough without sacrificing that lovely grit-n-stretch texture, and the interior had been adulterated at my request with some kind of addictively vinegary hot sauce.  It was a standout flavor, for sure, maybe scotch bonnet? (Review.) 40.810632 -73.95083440.810632-73.950834645051Wed, 21 Feb 2007 12:05:26 -0500http://www.mapbuilder.net/users/ragingsquid/3673440.677324 -73.94982340.677324-73.949823645052Wed, 21 Feb 2007 12:05:26 -0500http://www.mapbuilder.net/users/ragingsquid/3673440.7196806451724 -73.932495117187540.7196806451724-73.9324951171875645053Wed, 21 Feb 2007 12:05:26 -0500http://www.mapbuilder.net/users/ragingsquid/3673440.670246 -73.92822840.670246-73.928228721024Sat, 07 Apr 2007 18:16:21 -0400http://www.mapbuilder.net/users/ragingsquid/36734The chicken itself was a revelation.  Minimally coated with flour before the frying, Ruthie's lets the skin do the heavy lifting, keeping the juices in and providing the crunch that satisfies.  Some friends were pleasantly surprised that it lacked the kind of heavy duty coating made infamous by KFC.  All I had to say on the subject was, "thank God." (Review.) 40.689712 -73.97903540.689712-73.979035645054Wed, 21 Feb 2007 12:05:26 -0500http://www.mapbuilder.net/users/ragingsquid/36734When we got there, however, we noticed that what was purportedly a diner-turned-noodlery had been converted to a steam table dishes-over-rice joint, and given a new name. 40.742089 -73.88133640.742089-73.881336645055Wed, 21 Feb 2007 12:05:26 -0500http://www.mapbuilder.net/users/ragingsquid/36734Fortunately, the struggle with the language was more than worth it: the food was amazing, and I found the journey to and from the place to be more than edifying.  I managed to make clear what we wanted, eventually, using my old favorite pointing and nodding trick (which actually DID make me flash back). Shortly, we found ourselves presented with two square-shaped tamales oaxaquenos, which seemed to be wrapped in banana leaves rather than the usual corn husks ($2.50 each, I think). Stuffed with corn meal and what appeared to be chicken, with a dash of a reddish sauce, they were among the best versions of these snacks I'd ever tasted. (Review.) 40.795013 -73.94426140.795013-73.944261722248Sun, 08 Apr 2007 21:38:10 -0400http://www.mapbuilder.net/users/ragingsquid/36734The fatteh, which apparently ordinarily is a stew made of day-old pita (shades of chilaquiles, indeed), was completely pita-free, or at least that's the way it seemed.  Instead, I was treated to a broken pancake made from ground dates and what seemed similar to rice krispies.  The combination of textures and sweet flavor (particularly on the edge pieces, which had a lovely crunch) was perfect. (Review.) 40.690005 -73.99303540.690005-73.993035710105Sat, 31 Mar 2007 00:30:35 -0400http://www.mapbuilder.net/users/ragingsquid/36734Serves a deliciously addictive patty in miniature, and, if they delivered up to Boerum Hill, I'd probably be fat as hell.  It's a small place, but a friendly one, and it's rare that I enter these days without seeing at least one family with small children teaching their kids the virtues of a good burger (and, subliminally, the value of Carling beer, one wall is covered in a giant advert for it). Though the prices have seemingly gone up slightly, the quality has not declined.  Ordering fries will bring an enormous shareable basket of thinly cut goodness (try them with the strange-looking hot sauce if you like, but they're also perfect with ketchup).  The fries come out first, a brilliant innovation. (Review.) 40.684149 -74.00263340.684149-74.002633645056Wed, 21 Feb 2007 12:05:26 -0500http://www.mapbuilder.net/users/ragingsquid/36734The rendang, which I ate on the G train (the 7 was a bit too crowded to eat impolitely), was probably the best I'd ever tasted.  A lingering, flavorful heat distinguishes the sauce from most others of its type, and the beef is uniformly tender and tasty.  Packed into your take-out container with enough rice to soak up any sauce leftovers, the $5 meal is among the best things you can find in the city for its price (make sure to order the "Beef Rendang & Rice," as the full portion of rendang is considerably more expensive). (Review.) 40.759559 -73.83227740.759559-73.832277645057Wed, 21 Feb 2007 12:05:26 -0500http://www.mapbuilder.net/users/ragingsquid/36734It's been said that the Shake Shack is Danny Meyer's homage to the middle American fast food stand, and it does carry that mantle exceptionally well (except for the whole "hot-rod cars and greasers" thing, Happy Days was real, right?).  Matched with a trip to 7-11 to sate our thirst for the long line, I can truly proclaim this past Saturday afternoon to have been just like a day in the 'burbs west of the Mississippi, if only you could take the 6 train there and back. (Review.)40.74087 -73.9880340.74087-73.98803645058Wed, 21 Feb 2007 12:05:26 -0500http://www.mapbuilder.net/users/ragingsquid/3673440.686133 -73.82497540.686133-73.824975721027Sat, 07 Apr 2007 18:23:24 -0400http://www.mapbuilder.net/users/ragingsquid/36734A brief word on the meat itself: Gyro meat should not be the same formulation as doner kebap meat.  Something about the spicing changes between the Turkish and Greek meat, despite visual similarity.  In my opinion, too, it shouldn't be dripping, the meat should have fat, but it ideally walks the line between un-rendered grossness and dripping greaseness.  Spartan Souvlaki gets this, and I'm glad they do, it's the best Gyro I've had in a long time, and maybe ever. (Review.) 40.630831 -74.01462640.630831-74.014626645059Wed, 21 Feb 2007 12:05:26 -0500http://www.mapbuilder.net/users/ragingsquid/36734As you taste a truly complex, well-balanced spiciness for the first time, as I did, contemplate the various other experiences you've had with extreme spiciness.  Marvel as the peppercorns numb your mouth at the same time the spices set it on fire.  Understand for the first time how bland the average American meal truly is, and how singular chili flavors (jalapenos or today's ubiquitous "chipotle") rule the spice world here.  Is it any wonder non-masochists avoid spicy food? (Review.)  (Shorter update.) 40.760417 -73.83273140.760417-73.832731721026Sat, 07 Apr 2007 18:20:50 -0400http://www.mapbuilder.net/users/ragingsquid/36734The menu is quite extensive, tens of variations on the basic crepe, but I stuck to the butter masala dosa ($4.50), which features a yellow-tinged potato chunk-mash, sided with the usual coconut chutney and a new-to-me peanut variety.  I can't say that the coconut chutney is as spicy as I recall Dosa Hut's being (same goes for the sambar, which is the self-service lentil soup to the right of the cash register), but that was a while and many spicy dishes ago.  The nutty chutney was a bit hotter, and I looked in vain for a jar of it at Patel's Cash and Carry on the way home (made fresh, I'd gather). (Review.) (Sietsema's review.) 40.785 -74.1795440.785-74.17954645060Wed, 21 Feb 2007 12:05:26 -0500http://www.mapbuilder.net/users/ragingsquid/36734I wouldn't call them upscale, though, the food, good and bad, was quite humble.  We started with the samosa chat ($4) and channa tikki ($5), which were the definite highlights of the evening.  The samosa, a vegetable dumpling, was pleasingly topped with chickpeas and an array of sweet and mildly spicy sauces.  As I had actually ordered the kachoori chat, I was a bit chagrined when it arrived (the service at Sukhadia, by the way, was inattentive bordering on incompetent), but it proved to be the best thing we ate.  The channa tikki, with a mildly spicy sauce and chickpeas over chunks of potato, was also good, though perhaps a little too same-y for our taste. Both of those were heaven compared to one of the mains, the palak paneer ($9) was among the worst iterations of the dish I've ever had.  Containing nothing resembling fresh spinach, and a green paste-like substance that approximated canned creamed spinach, it's hard to believe that this dish and Spicy Mina's excellent broccoli-rabe-ish dish are purportedly the same thing. (Review.) 40.755652 -73.98009740.755652-73.980097706694Thu, 29 Mar 2007 11:04:40 -0400http://www.mapbuilder.net/users/ragingsquid/36734Does it compare to spendier Rai Rai Ken or Minca?  Minca's kim chi ramen, my new favorite there, is a swirling red-orange stew of noodles-in-broth, with Minca's typical accoutrements, it's damn good, but it's twelve bucks!  Super Taste's entry into the spicy category is far more humble, but at a far more pleasing price.  And I actually like the non-spicy beef soup at Super Taste better than the rest of Minca's menu.  Score one for the cheapwads! (Review.) 40.71508 -73.99337740.71508-73.993377704384Wed, 28 Mar 2007 14:25:35 -0400http://www.mapbuilder.net/users/ragingsquid/36734My favorite dish at Superfine is the breakfast burrito, which seems expensive at $9.50 until you realize that you might not have to eat dinner after consuming it.  It’s genuinely huge, stuffed with eggs and sausage, and coated with cheese.  Watch a friend with a lesser appetite order this and peter out halfway though, then swoop in for the kill (carefully, though, the plate is hot!).  The chile verde sauce that comes with it is a bit spicy, so best to stick with the ever-present special banana-nut pancakes (sometimes walnut, sometimes pecan) if you’re not a spice person.  This is no great sacrifice, though, if there is a pancake god, he would be very impressed with how tender, sweet and delicious these are. (Review.) 40.702345 -73.98744540.702345-73.987445704382Wed, 28 Mar 2007 14:23:24 -0400http://www.mapbuilder.net/users/ragingsquid/36734Supper’s portions are unlikely to leave you feeling gorged and lethargic; their sage omelet is small and sided with spinach greens ($7), and, on my recent visit, their French toast came with fruit, including some very fresh raspberries ($8).  I hear you can get a toasted baguette with Nutella, too, if you’re into that sort of thing.  If it’s a nice day, after the meal, walk down to Economy Candy (Rivington between Essex and Ludlow) and get an Abba Zabba. (Review.) 40.722932 -73.98517840.722932-73.985178645061Wed, 21 Feb 2007 12:05:26 -0500http://www.mapbuilder.net/users/ragingsquid/36734I was lured a bit into over-ordering, as is lately usual: $2 fresh-baked lepeshka bread lead to $4 worth of excellent hummus, which begat an order of 2 lula kebabs sided with French fries for $7 (or $3.50 each).  The lula were cooked through but not dry, and had just the right amount of grease.  The fries were fresh-cut marvels with just the right amount of crunch and salt.  To be fair, you could order either half of this array of food and be perfectly happy (I ran out of gas a few bites into the second kebab).  The meat is also about 50-75% more expensive than in Rego Park, but, hell, you’re on 47th Street!  If I worked in Midtown, I’d eat here twice a week, I bet. (Review.) 40.75727 -73.98006940.75727-73.980069644160Tue, 20 Feb 2007 13:37:03 -0500http://www.mapbuilder.net/users/ragingsquid/36734Not quite a pit, but not luxurious; it’s the kind of place that suggests that the proprietors may spend more time on the food than they care to on the décor. The main meat platter ($20) was truly a sight to behold: two chicken thighs, several pieces of skewered meat, one rib, a couple hunks of one kind of pork and some slices of another, and several slices of medium rare steak.  Everyone says this is enough to feed three, and they’re not kidding--we were voracious and there were still two or three untouched pieces of meat left, along with half the rice and beans, fries, and we had barely touched the included salad bar (which is pretty much okay, given that it’s slim pickings).   While the grilled meats could be a little drier than I’d like at times, we were there on the early side, and on a busier night, I’m sure the meat wouldn’t have been left on the grill as long. (Review.) 40.727084 -74.15495740.727084-74.154957704473Wed, 28 Mar 2007 14:53:41 -0400http://www.mapbuilder.net/users/ragingsquid/36734The teriyaki chicken burger (geez, it must have been about 10 years since the last time I tasted teriyaki) was huge, and came in a lunch combination with two wings, a perfunctory salad featuring an oilier version of that slightly bitter orange salad dressing that seems to always be served with Japanese food, and a soda can.  The chicken burger wasn’t as flavorful as the wings, sadly; to think what they could do if they used the garlic sauce from the wings! (Review.) 40.74044 -73.99505240.74044-73.995052706650Thu, 29 Mar 2007 10:56:26 -0400http://www.mapbuilder.net/users/ragingsquid/36734The sides and decor are not much, but my entree arrived to save the day: far and away the best fried pork chop I've ever had. Seriously flavorful, not too greasy, and tender and juicy in a way that La Taza De Oro's, for example, wasn't, this chop was a strong contender for best pork I've had in any format. I actually wanted another chop after I was finished, at La Taza's, by contrast, I finished one of two and was more than satisfied. (Review.) 40.732633 -74.00445740.732633-74.004457645063Wed, 21 Feb 2007 12:05:26 -0500http://www.mapbuilder.net/users/ragingsquid/3673440.857473 -73.88600840.857473-73.886008645064Wed, 21 Feb 2007 12:05:26 -0500http://www.mapbuilder.net/users/ragingsquid/3673440.636518 -74.00846640.636518-74.008466645065Wed, 21 Feb 2007 12:05:26 -0500http://www.mapbuilder.net/users/ragingsquid/3673440.666471 -73.95085240.666471-73.950852645066Wed, 21 Feb 2007 12:05:26 -0500http://www.mapbuilder.net/users/ragingsquid/36734The sandwiches were expensive, unfortunately, at $7.  The guacamole and chips we were served to begin weren't as awful, but the guac was thin and bland (like the German version entitled, forebodingly, "avocadocreme") and the cilantro sprinkled on top was a poor substitute for actual flavor.  Honestly, if a <a href="http://www.chipotle.com/">McDonald's subsidiary</a> can make passable guac, in this day and age, there's no reason to even bother with the bad stuff, particularly when it's $4. (Review.) 40.762479 -73.99340340.762479-73.993403710151Sat, 31 Mar 2007 00:56:50 -0400http://www.mapbuilder.net/users/ragingsquid/36734Neither of our pastas exceeded the Olive Garden's quality level.  My orecchiette with pancetta and peas ($9.50) were swimming in a layering of cream sauce and what seemed like it ought to be pesto, based on the color.  Sadly, there was not enough flavor to determine its actual content.  The tiny chunks of pancetta offered a little fatty smokiness, but not enough. My girlfriend's gnocchi ($10.50) also came with two sauces, side-by-side: one red sauce, which I'd swear was canned, and one actually flavorful pesto.  The cloves of garlic we crunched into made us happy, but the soggy-ish gnocchi didn't. (Review.) 40.681309 -73.99392940.681309-73.993929645067Wed, 21 Feb 2007 12:05:26 -0500http://www.mapbuilder.net/users/ragingsquid/3673440.743405 -73.88876140.743405-73.888761654072Tue, 27 Feb 2007 11:27:13 -0500http://www.mapbuilder.net/users/ragingsquid/36734Try the delicious foul, a large bowl of hearty fava beans that are stewed with garlic and topped with a drizzle of olive oil.  It's served with a slightly smoky flatbread about the size of a tennis racket and similar to naan in flavor (though a touch chewier and a wee bit sweeter).  The $5 appetizer easily makes a filling lunch. And don't pass on their zoug, the green Yemeni hot sauce that, I think, might be the single greatest new food item I've tried in at least a year.  It's a crisp, slightly zingy mix of tomatoes (just a tiny amount), jalepeno peppers, cilantro, raw garlic, and blended onions that made me think, "If I could marry a food item, this would be it." Also notable was the “special Yemeni fateh,” a stew made with diced lamb and day-old pita, coated with an orange gravy.   Indeed, Orange seemed to be the theme color of many of the dishes – one friend ordered gelbah, which was a similarly colored lamb stew arrangement (less gravied than seasoned, though), served with a side of rice.   And our other friend, whose refusal to eat lamb was the source of much slightly hilarious commentary, did well with the entrée-sized appetizer of white kidney beans, served with another orange sauce, this time quite oniony. (Review.) (Earlier review.) 40.689882 -73.993740.689882-73.9937706905Thu, 29 Mar 2007 11:53:10 -0400http://www.mapbuilder.net/users/ragingsquid/36734The first dish to emerge was a seafood Pad Med Ma Muang, which was funny in that we didn't order it.  After a couple of bites, the waitress came back to tell us that it wasn't ours.  Too bad, we said, already having taken a bite or two and liked it quite a bit, we were going to keep it.  The sauteed cashew nuts frankly make the dish, a completely different flavor when cooked, and I couldn't eat enough of them.  Also included in the dish were onions, scallions, peppers, squid, shrimp, and de-shelled (thanks!) mussels, along with a chile sauce more sweet than spicy.  It was, fortunately for us, a good dish to counterbalance the spice of the other three dishes we ordered. The Catfish Laab salad is justifiably legendary, it's impossible to describe without making it seem less than it is, but I'll try: chopped cooked catfish with mint, lemongrass, lime and chile, served warm on an iceberg lettuce leaf.  There, doesn't that sound sort of boring?  It isn't; trust me.  Simultaneously fishy, spicy and flavorful, and uniquely textured, it was as new and different to me, having dined an untold number of times on Thai, as real Sichuan was after growing up on American Chinese.  In fact, the closest comparison I can come up with was the Bahamian conch salad I sampled while in Nassau, though the dishes are more spiritual cousins than relatives of flavor. (Review.) 40.746403 -73.89399840.746403-73.893998706902Thu, 29 Mar 2007 11:49:45 -0400http://www.mapbuilder.net/users/ragingsquid/36734Once in and seated at one of three tables in this fairly dilapidated place, I was handed a takeout menu, and I started to inspect the Sietsema-recommended house specialties.  The owner/waiter/chef opened the menu to the mail page which featured an array of American Chinese dishes that I was certainly not interested in, so I pointed back to the house specialties and asked if they were available (I always wonder, walking into an empty restaurant, whether they're closed or on limited menu).  The owner was seemingly surprised, and indicated that they were indeed available.  I selected the first entree on the list, listed as "Alomatic Beef with Wild Pepper."  I assume that was a misspelled version of "aromatic," but I'm still not sure why that was an apt title for the dish. What arrived at my table roughly six minutes later (I watched the man cook, which was fun) was a fantastic stir fry of beef, cauliflower, at least two kinds of fresh peppers (one was red and green, not sure if that was the primary source of spice, it looked like there were some smaller, spicier ones), something that seemed almost like a cucumber but was crunchier, tiny onions, mushrooms that looked like they were out of a cartoon, snow peas, and a black bean sauce.  It was accompanied by a bowl of white rice perhaps a bit on the dry side, but very serviceable.  The ensemble was spicy, but not in the way that Sichuan cooking is spicy, the spice was totally contained in the peppers and their seeds. (Review.) 40.712092 -73.99527440.712092-73.995274722259Sun, 08 Apr 2007 21:48:00 -0400http://www.mapbuilder.net/users/ragingsquid/36734It wasn't terrible, per se.  Both my paralegal friend and I had the Cajun blackened steak sandwich ($9), which we were expecting (a la Mooncake Foods) to come sliced on a roll.  We got the roll, certainly, but the steak was in one flattened piece, and a bit too tough to bite through cleanly, despite my ordering it medium rare (not that a steak that thin can be cooked medium rare). The vaunted fries ($3.75), sparsely sprinkled with parmesan and garlic, brought forth more memories with the presentation than the flavor: they were presented in a cone that reminded me of the friteur on 2nd Avenue (the Belgians seem to eschew the cone in favor of a tray, oddly).  The fries themselves seemed to be a bit cooked for my taste, and the parmesan and garlic could have been slightly stronger in punch. (Review.) 40.721574 -73.98826240.721574-73.988262