Asian fusion noodle bar w/ inventive comfort food. Famous for pork belly bao & fried chicken. Consistent quality, lively vibe.
Will Hartman reviews Momofuku Noodle Bar, an East Village spot that's been a staple for ramen and creative dishes since 2004, highlighting its consistent quality and enduring appeal.
This East Village staple, serving inventive comfort food with an Asian street food influence since 2004, remains a relevant dining destination. Known for its lively atmosphere and open kitchen, it offers consistently well-executed dishes like its signature pork belly bao and various ramen options. While newer ramen spots may offer more complex broths, Momofuku Noodle Bar provides a reliable and enjoyable experience, perfect for casual dinners or dates.
This restaurant offers a creative take on Asian fusion, with a strong emphasis on noodles and bao. The pork belly bao and various ramen dishes, such as the smoked pork ramen and garlic chicken ramen, are frequently recommended. While some find the chilled spicy noodles to be a letdown, the overall food quality is well-regarded.
"Standout dishes include the iconic Pork Belly Bao, Garlic Chicken Ramen, and the Spicy Scallop Hand Roll. The Shrimp Patty Steamed Buns are also highly recommended."
Customers generally have a positive sentiment, appreciating the consistent quality of dishes like the pork belly bao and ramen. Some note that while ramen may not be as complex as newer establishments, it remains a solid choice.
Important Note
One commenter noted that the restaurant is considered a 'chain' and that Momofuku Noodle Bar might be skippable, suggesting there could be better noodle options available.
"Momofuku was mentioned for its fried chicken dinner, suggesting it as a potential option for large portion sizes."
Positive"Momofuku Noodle Bar is mentioned as one of the restaurants that appear on both OpenTable with a dining credit and the Blackbird app."
Neutral"The commenter empathizes with the pain of losing a favorite spot, comparing the impact of restaurant closures to the pandemic."
Neutral"The commenter found the restaurant to be good but noted it was always quite empty when they dined there."
Neutral"A brief comment expressing devastation over the closure of the restaurant."
Negative"The commenter shared a fond memory of having one of their best first dates at Marafuku Ramen and expressed sadness about its closure."
Positive"The commenter and their husband loved Marafuku Ramen in Oakland and were excited to find the East Village location upon moving to NY. They were planning to revisit soon."
Positive"The commenter initially liked Marafuku Ramen when it opened but felt the quality declined over time."
Negative"The user is devastated by the closure of Marafuku Ramen in the East Village, which was their go-to spot for various occasions."
Neutral"A user suggested Momofuku Noodle Bar as a ramen place that could fit the date night vibe."
Positive"This commenter suggested Momofuku Noodle Bar for a birthday dinner, highlighting its fried chicken dinner as a good option for groups."
Neutral"Momofuku Noodle Bar was mentioned as a potential option for noodles in Midtown. The commenter suggested there might be better noodle places available."
Neutral"This user suggested that Momofuku Noodle Bar is skippable."
Negative"A commenter referred to Momofuku as a 'chain' while asking for recommendations from the list."
Neutral"A user reminisces about Fuku's early days when it was piloted from Momofuku Ko on 11th Street, praising its "insanely good" full thigh chicken."
Positive"The original poster consistently finds Momofuku Ramen Bar to be a good experience but notes the impact of inflation on its pricing."
Neutral"Recommends the shrimp patty steamed buns at Momofuku Noodle Bar."
Positive"Offers large format meals like suckling pig and fried chicken and caviar. The user has dined here before."
Neutral"Mentions Momofuku (Momofuku Noodle Bar) as one of the many ramen places in the area."
Positive
