Kat's 9 Lives

Ever since the infamous show down with Bobby Flay, the Doughnut Plant has been infamous for their Tres Leches doughnut.  This location is the original located down in the Lower East Side.  It's a small shop with very little sit down room compared to the newer location in Chelsea.  A simple and great place to pick up a heavenly snack.  So many great memories from here. It's also a closer walk from the subway.
The best and most tasty doughnut is the Tres Leches, hands down! Who does not love the super moist and mind-blowing cake doughnut that is extremely addicting.  I always bring a dozen or so back home and nosh on these for many days.  If only I lived in NYC! I'd be stopping by as often as I could.  Of course I'd be diabetic by now and poor.  Every time I am in NYC or if Ms. Lin is there, I make sure that I get some delicious doughnuts.  Even if it is frozen and saved for later, I will take it! lol
It was our last day in NYC and we had planned out our sugar-filled list of treats to bring back to friends and families in So Cal.  First stop, Doughnut Plant, and then off to Bisous Ciao Macarons.  We sacrificed lunch in order to pick up all these sweet treats.  Was it worth it?  Yum! We left hungry, but on the train to Newark Ms. Lin and I began munching on them.
Even though they had the Crème Brûlée Doughnut here, I didn't pick one up.  I had it at the Chelsea location and it was not quite what I thought it would be.  The picture makes it look really tasty but for me there was just something missing to make it a real Crème Brûlée for me.  Besides, we were two gals on a mission to take back a good amount of the Tres Leches as they are TO DIE FOR!
They have less choices here than the Chelsea location, but at least they have all the best flavors here.  I love coming to NYC in October because they will have the seasonal Pumpkin doughnut available.  It's the only doughnut for me that is somewhat comparable to the Tres Leches.  Although, nothing is as tasty as their infamous doughnut.
Next, they need to think about moving to the West Coast.  I would be one of the first to line up outside the store and one of many with a few dozen doughnuts leaving! lol
Doughnut Plant
379 Grand St
New York, NY 10002
(212) 505-3700

It was getting really late at night and we had a full day in NYC already but our last stop of the night was at the The Breslin in Midtown West/Chelsea. I will admit that I was a bit skeptical when Ms. Lin suggested this gastropub for lamb burgers. There have been very very very few places where I have actually had a decent lamb burger that did NOT taste like feet. Don't get me wrong, I adore lamb and raw meat but I don't like the heavy herbs that over power the natural flavors and only makes the gaminess unbearable.
Since I have had many bad encounters, I was a bit cautious when she ordered. It was late at night and close to last call so we asked the guy to first put in an order of the lamb burger and THEN I will decide if I will have another one. Ms. Lin and him probably thought I was funny and since they have both had the lamb burger, they knew that the answer would be yes! Not that you couldn't tell from the title of this post, lol.
At first I was in a sour mood because nothing else on the menu appealed to me and the prices were mid-high for stuff that I did not want to eat. Prices in NYC always tend to be higher, but since I was not here for a real meal and I am surrounded by tons of great eats in this city I was hesitant to order the other dishes. Luckily I just waited to try the lamb burger and didn't!
If I wasn't so full from all the eating around NYC, I wish I stuffed another burger down the gullet! The Lamb Burger ($21) was topped with feta and served with cumin mayo and thrice cooked chips on the side. I am glad that the mayo was on the side because I don't really like cumin. The fries were piping hot and well seasoned. I really enjoyed the presentation on the cutting board. We cut the burger in half and I was delighted that the center was reddish-pink. It was a juicy, sensuous, and flavorful burger that completely melts in your mouth! Be sure to eat it while it is piping hot and before the juices leak out onto the bun. **Gobble Gobble**
We started the night off with the Caramel Popcorn ($5), which I thought was cutely presented. The name tag and date of birth was a great idea. It wasn't quite what I expected it to be and the caramel was quite sticky and chewy. For me, it was just okay but I did really like the packaging.
I have never heard of a Scotch Egg ($8) but Ms. Lin was excited and wanted to order it. What? I was a bit skeptical because I thought it was a bit pricey for something that has the word egg! For those who know me, I am not a big of eggs and wouldn't order it but I am glad we did. This was surprisingly tasty! Instead of a hard boiled egg inside, it was a nicely poached runny egg encased by meat then batter and fried to crisp perfection. Yum! It was crispy and savory. I actually thought the combination was very nice and was tempted to have another one. The portion size was pretty decent too.
We debated about another appetizer/snack and we decided to order the Beef and Stilton Pie ($7). The server described it as beef and cheese inside a tasty crust, so we thought sure bring us an order! I wished we ordered another scotch egg instead! Of course I wouldn't have known without trying so c'est la vie. The flavor of the beef was decent but there wasn't much cheese inside. To me it was just alright.
All in all it was a hip and tasty gastropub. They definitely sold me on their lamb burger and scotch egg! The menu might change often but I hope they keep those two on the menu! Ms. Lin was a little reserved about this place because it had been a while since she'd been here and since she was introducing this place to me, she wanted to make sure I'd like it too. Luckily, the burger was just as good as she remembered. Proving that when something is good, it can still taste just as good years later and not just be a memory.
The Breslin
16 W. 29th Street
New York, NY 10001
(212) 679-2222

This is a long overdue post but a post worth the wait. I was so excited to be going to NYC and trying the Big Gay Ice Cream Truck. After seeing and hearing about the Choinkwich, I knew I had to have it. How can anyone resist ice cream and BACON! O=9 This truck just sounded like loads of fun. They mix many different ingredients that might sound weird as a topping, but I just found them to be absolutely enticing. I am just tired of the same old flavors and toppings. It was time for something unique and new to invigorate the taste buds. To top things off, the man behind the truck is such a sweet guy that you would want to come visit him all the time!
The easiest stop for me was Broadway and 17th. There is a subway stop nearby, which makes it easy and convenient. You can also grab the ice cream and head back to the park to sit and relax while you eat. As I was making my way across the park there were so many people checking out my goodies! Of course I wouldn't let them get their greedy paws on my goodies. O=9
At first I was only going to get one ice cream and 2 Choinkwiches, but then I saw what they had to offer. I couldn't stop myself from ordering almost everything and holding up the line. There was talk about the Choinkwiches running out if you don't get there early enough and I was crossing my fingers that they would still be available when I got there. Lucky for me that they still had some. I had to make the most of it and ordered 3 off the bat. It's Chocolate Ice Cream and Caramelized Bacon sandwiched between Chocolate Cartwheel Cookies. Does that not sound absolutely heavenly? I am so glad that I was super greedy and ordered a bunch of these. The bacon was perfectly cooked. It's a thick cut full of savory and sweet flavor. The saltiness really complimented the chocolate ice cream flavor and enhanced the texture. I think I might be drooling on my laptop. This was so wonderful that I had to put 2 photos up to pay homage to such a wonderful treat. Even the name is super cute!
The Big Gay Ice Cream Truck is known for their unique toppings. They range from Olive Oil & Sea Salt to Cayenne Peppers. One topping that caught my eye was Wasabi Pea Dust. The bright green dust covering the ice cream was just so alluring that I had to try it. I thought that Ms. Lin would really enjoy this mix of savory, sweet, and spice. The sweetness really complimented the wasabi flavor.
While I was looking around at what they had to offer, I happened to come across a tasty treat called the Salty Pimp. The name alone was enough for me to want this dessert. I also thought this would be something that Ms. Lin would really like because it was a combo of Vanilla Ice Cream, Dulce de Leche, Sea Salt, and dipped in Chocolate. She loves salty caramel and I thought this would be right down her alley.
As if I wasn't greedy enough, I also happened to see that they had a Hot Chocolate... It is their home brew mulled with Cayenne and Cinnamon then Honey-Sweetened served over Vanilla Ice Cream affogato-style then topped with Whipped Cream. How could I resist? I am not in NYC a lot so I had to make the most of it. I liked how the spiciness of the cayenne really popped. The hot chocolate was not overly sweet and full of flavor.
Did I mention that I had to carry all this back myself? Hence the stares and many people trying to steal my goodies. I had to balance the trays full of yummy treats through a packed park. It takes talent not to tip the trays while speeding through the park. Was it worth all this effort? You Betcha! I long for the Choinkwich. That bacon was divine. Everything about the Big Gay Ice Cream Truck just brings a smile to my face. It's fun and friendly, you gotta love it! ^_~

Big Gay Ice Cream Truck
Broadway & 17th Street
New York, NY 10003

So full from lunch but I had to persist and keep on eating! I am blogging out of order right now. After a nice power lunch at Fleur de Sel, I decided to go to Hamachi Japanese Restaurant for SECOND lunch. Yes, I am that crazy to try and fit in many meals a day. Who do you think I learned it from! **cough cough Ms. Lin!** lol O=9 This place is diagonal from Fleur de Sel so I just strolled there and ordered a small second lunch. The place is small and dimly lit, with a rustic wood touch typical to Japanese restaurants.
It wasn't very busy for lunch. I got a Sashimi Regular Lunch, which includes 12 pieces of raw fish chosen by the chef. This of course comes with your Miso Soup, but you can tell this place does not cater to Japanese people or Japanese connoisseurs because they served the soup with a spoon. Tsk Tsk Tsk! lol To be fair... I was probably WAY too full to enjoy anything! The food was decent as were the prices. Be sure to go there for lunch because it's cheaper for the meals for the same amount of food! The sashimi was decent, but I was not wowed by it. I also decided to get the Toro sashimi that was not bad, but of course it's at market price.
All in all the place was decent and priced fairly. I was nice enough to bring Ms. Lin an order of Spicy Tuna Cut Roll because she's greedy too and wanted to try every place that I went to too! lol My tummy was seriously about to burst after so many meals. There are more tales to tell about my foodie adventures that almost made me cry from fullness! Lol Don't worry they all tasted good too! This restaurant would be the place for you if you're looking for decent priced sushi in Manhattan, which is definitely HARD!

Alright, I met up with my ACA Mommy that I hadn't seen in years after Ms. Lin and I went to Momofuku that day. It had been a really long time since I last saw her and I was very happy that we got to reconnect! She is so sweet, kind, and smart! ^_^ The 3 of us went for a quick snack/dessert because Ms. Lin and I had dinner plans as did she. We probably got there around 3:30PM give and take to ChikaLicious Dessert Bar. The dessert bar opens at 3PM and there was a few people there already. Ms. Lin has been here before and there usually is a line waiting outside to get a seat. Luckily we didn't have to wait that long to get seated. The interior decor is white and simple.
We all decided to get the Pre-Fixe. This includes Amuse Bouche, Choice of Dessert, and Petits Fours. A Fruity Pear Sorbet was the Amuse Bouche and it was very light on the palette. My ACA Mom and I decided to get their signature dish of Fromage Blanc Island "Cheese Cake" for their dessert. Of course Ms. Lin and I ordered different desserts to share and try more. I must say this was really disappointing. It definitely was not your typical cheese cake. There was a lot of foam and the flavors were a little off for me. The dish was not bad, it just didn't wow me. It does have a stronger cheese flavor than cheese cakes but I felt it was still a bit bland. Then again, this is a Japanese dessert bar... which means lighter flavor.
Ms. Lin decided to get the White Chocolate Mousse Éclair served with Concord Grape Sorbet and Frosted Pistachio. The presentation and concept was nice. I did like the texture and flavor of the mousse. This was better than the fromage blanc in my opinion, but nothing really wowed me. The best part of the meal was sitting and chatting. I also added a wine pairing, but I changed the wine to Moscato d'Asti Saracco 2006. The wine was nice and refreshing. They served a cute small platter of Petits Fours at the end. I am just a sucker for them. They too were light and no wow factor.
All in all I thought this place was only okay, but they had some interesting dishes that keep changing. I would probably come back here again one day, but it would not be on top of my list. The service was friendly and enjoyable. I think if you sit at the dessert bar you would get a better interaction with Chef and that would be an enjoyable experience. Of course this time I was more into chatting with an old friend. One thing that agitated me was that when we were done they had already closed for the day! The sun was still out and the place had probably only been open for 2 hours. I only now found out that they open at 3PM from their site, so I find it utterly ridiculous for them to be out of desserts around 5-6PM!!! When we were walking out we saw the sign blocking the front interest. Can't they just make more? Shouldn't they have more prepared for the day??? It just boggles my mind! Only in New York! Lol ^_^

Wow has it really been 200 posts! Time goes by fast! I guess I must be glued to my computer. ^_^ Since I promised Tofu that I would start my New York reviews, why not do it on the 200th post. I will be posting about any and every thing possible. Watch out for my curve balls!
Last time I went to Manhattan NY, Ms. Lin and I started our own explorations. Of course while she was at work, I went out to play by myself. I normally don't like ramen, but Momofuku's Noodle Bar really change my mind. Any place that can make something I don't really care for into something delectable, I say kudos! We had to get a bowl noodles since it was a noodle bar. They were packed even for a late lunch. It's your typical Japanese noodle bar dining style where you will be sitting next to strangers and both enjoying your meal with the chance of making a new friend. We ordered the Momofuku Ramen with Pork Combo, Poached Egg, Seaweed, and Pickled Vegetables. I really enjoyed the soup and all the flavors working wonderfully together. Ms. Lin was surprised that I ended up liking the ramen. The different types of meat all had their own earthy flavor that mixed well with the delectable broth and the pickled vegetables only enhanced the flavor. I will definitely be back for some more!
Everyone there had the Steamed Buns and the people next to us raved about it. Remember when I said you will make new friends... or be bombarded by your neighbor... the guy was so excited that he kept raving about the steamed buns and certain dishes. No, he was not hitting on us. He had a female companion, but it was really funny how passionate he was. It was nice. We decided to get the Pork Steamed Buns. They are basically "Gua Pao" with a healthy twist. The meat was leaner and they layered it with fresh Cucumbers & Green Onions. It was good, but definitely not as flavorful as normal gua paos. You can judge me, but I think it's because they made it "healthier" and that's why it didn't taste as good. The fattier and unhealthier the dish is, then the better it tastes!! ^_-
We also decided to try a seasonal dish. It was the Hamachi Sashimi with Radish and Green Apples. The concept sounded interesting but it fell extremely short of hitting the mark. I like the fish, but the flavors were weird. In the end I just ate the sashimi separately. Being greedy, as we always are O=), we decided to also get Spicy Cold Noodles with Pickled Cucumbers and shredded Seaweed. I liked the texture of the noodles but the spicy flavor was only okay to me. Back then, I think I was less open-minded to spicy foods. Ms. Lin enjoyed it and she ate them while I scarfed down the ramen. It all worked out in the end!
All in all the service was friendly but they are super busy so expect some delays. Be prepared to sit very close to your neighbors and if you are not there early or late enough then expect a wait. I really liked the place overall because of the ramen. Next time we are in NY together we will have to check out the Ssam Bar. If I were living in NY I would definitely frequent them because the prices are reasonable for NY and the portions are filling. **Drool Drool** Since I have had their ramen, I have been trying different ramens to find one that I really liked... but to no avail. I guess I must come back here again! ^_^