In New York, there are 2 popular places for Asian noodles – momofuku Noodle Bar and Ippudo NY. Because noodles are so rare, the wait at these places can be notoriously long. I was once told I had to wait 3h for Ippudo when I arrived at 9pm, which I obviously did not because I am not dumb. Ippudo have expanded to have 2 outlets now.

I did not think momofuku was fantastic previously but somehow I just wanted to give it a second chance, because Ippudo can be found in Singapore ultimately and momofuku is something unique to New York only.

I like how the menu is kept short and simple. It changes periodically keeping things new and exciting.

The only way to have noodles is at a bar and to use chopsticks. Do not try using a fork.

Ginger Scallion Noodles – USD$12

This was a vegetarian option with no meat in sight. I did not order this but from a mouth of it, it was good.

What’s so good about it is the noodle texture! Uniquely New York.

Chilled Fish Ramen – USD$12

I decided to be adventurous and go for this daily option. I’m glad it’s not a permanent item because the combination wasn’t fantastic even though it was unique. The fish was too fishy-ly pungent. The main point, however, was the noodles itself and it was good. Being in chilled broth helped it remain springy and I like it springy. Still a good bowl of noodles despite the fishy smell.

I would recommend momofuku over Ippudo if you had to pick one, because it is really unique. What was disappointing about Ippudo was also how the recipes was being tweaked for American taste, and it wasn’t like the one in Japan. If I had to choose I would opt for a total new creation from David Chang who is Korean and not Japanese, rather than a spin off version of something originally really good, you know?

Not forgetting USD$12 is consider cheap for a meal in Manhatten and I don’t think there’s anything else you can get for USD$12 that tastes as good!