Momofuku Ssam Bar

April 28th-

Before heading out to the Tribeca Film Festival, Nathan and I went for an early dinner at Momofuku Ssam Bar at 2nd Avenue and 13th Street. Since we were there so early (6:45ish), we were able to walk right in. It's a pretty small place, and they don't accept reservations, so go early, really late, or be prepared to wait. The interior is modern and clean, with dark wood paneling and a long sleek bar. The bar has the little hooks underneath for your handbag, which I love a little bit too much. There is an open kitchen in the back, but it isn't loud and distracting. They offer several types of Sake, various beers and have a huge wine list, which is handed to you in a thicker than you would expect, leather-bound book that they keep behind the bar. We ordered drinks......just beer and wine....since we had to stay awake for the movie.....and then moved on to the menu. The steamed pork buns from the small plates portion of the menu were the first thing we devoured. I thought Nathan might die from excitement when they came out. They were the cutest little sandwiches made up of soft, white, spongy buns and filled with moist, tender meat.....add a touch of hot sauce and yum! Next, we had the lamb tortelloni. It was so full of flavor and texture.....my favorite! As the special entree of the night, they were offering grilled himachi collar with daikon (crunchy radish pieces, basically), umeboshi (a tart little plum colored dollop of deliciousness) and ponzu sauce. Neither one of us had ever had collar of himachi, and we wanted to be adventurous, so we ordered it. The fish had a stronger taste than I usually like, but it was a bit masked by the tasty ponzu sauce, which was key. Nathan did not get enough of the pork buns, so we ordered another round of those, and were told by our waiter/bartender that that was a common occurrence......apparently there are never enough pork buns for anyone......ever. I am usually not tempted by dessert, but when I saw what was on the menu, I made sure to leave room. How could I have possibly refused pear sorbet with pumpkin ganache and gorgonzola dolce? I couldn't! Anytime something savory is offered as a dessert in a new, creative way, I can barely contain myself. It was amazing! What a combo....a new inventive melange of scrumptiousness! Delish! I will return.