The iconic Momofuku Noodle Bar is celebrating their 20th anniversary this year. Momofuku Noodle Bar, David Changβs very first restaurant, has become an East Village staple, serving up favorites like steamed buns with hoisin, stuffed with roast pork belly, and alongside quick pickles.
Out of all of their menu items, I am most partial to that pillowy Pork Bao and ever-changing soft-serve flavors. To honor their 20th birthday, Momofuku is bringing back some of their retired dishes from the past. Each month they will highlight a dish that made Momofuku Noodle Bar what it is today. You will find dishes like Spicy Pork Sausage & Rice Cakes (2006), Fuji Apple Kimchi (2005), and Fried Brussel Sprouts (2006) to name a few.
Earlier this year, we were invited to the anniversary kick-off party, where we were able to try all of the dishes they are highlighting this year. Most of the night, I was caught between the sliced-to-order country ham with red eye gravy and the drumstick of fried chicken with creme fresh and caviar - only taking breaks to top off my cup in the Momofuku sake ice lounge. It was a luxurious night of eating, to say the least.Β
If you are in NYC and can manage it, I highly recommend heading over once a month for all of 2024 to try every special they are offering. If that feels unreasonable, here are some of my faves to look out for below:
One of the most fun dishes of the night was the whole roasted pig. The amazing staff was carving the pig right in front of us. The bib lettuce, pickled veggies, and chili vinaigrette made for the perfect bite.
I also loved the Spicy Pork Sausage & Rice Cakes. The chewy rice cakes are a perfect vessel for the spicy pork and sauce. It is almost like eating a Hot Cheeto, you canβt help yourself but go back for more.
My overall fave was the Shrimp Bun. I could eat one of those every day of the week. You canβt go wrong with a slightly sweet bun, a shrimp patty, and spicy mayo. The flavors are made for each other.
We hope everyone can go try some of these Noodle Bar staples in the coming year. They are worth a night out in the East Village for sure!