Apparently food critics have christened the East Village “Chinatown North.” Okay, whatever – but – that means some great new spots have been popping up. Hunan Slurp is the type of place that shines when dining with a group because it’s all about the sharing factor and discussing the exciting flavors. The menu is divided into appetizers, hot dishes and “mifen” – silky rice noodle bowls that are slightly soupy (hence the “Slurp”), and brimming with protein and veg. Everything was spot on – from the sharing possibilities, the current BYOB policy (awaiting their license) and bright, carefully designed (slightly Scandi) environ. The proprietor/chef is an artist which explained the heightened design sense. Diners sit nestled within an almost futuristic capsule of angular blond wood ceiling beams, oversized mirrors and glowing paper lanterns – with slight nods to heritage while feeling almost Jetson-like. Details extend to the stylish brass and ceramic dinnerware which added to the fun. New York is a Sichuan haven, so it was nice to sample straight-up Hunan food. The spice factor was perfectly tempered, resulting in a little bit o’ lip tingle. Fires were put out by ice cold Narragansetts. It’s been a while since I’ve been to an affordable restaurant that is so fastidious with the entire experience.
Ideal for: Friends who are into New York’s latest food trends, design fiends, semi-adventurous groups (it gets as daring as chicken feet and frog’s legs), showing how urbane you are to open-minded parents/relatives.
Eat up: Cucumber and Spare Ribs to start. Skewed Beef (the abundance of toothpicks was slightly funny + a red flag as a must share dish), Whole Fish (shredded and drowning in chopped chili sauce), Wild Pepper & Beef Mifen, String Bean Mifen.
Fancy a nearby nightcap? Holiday Cocktail Lounge for cocktails with 2018 pricing in a mid-century den. William Barnacle Tavern is a musty ex-speakeasy with a penchant for absinthe, connected to the wonderfully programmed Theatre 80. Sophie’s is one of the remaining EV dive bars.
elbows on the table 