Berkshire Pork Steamed Buns

by Celia Sin-Tien Cheng
March 26, 2005

MOMOFUKU
171 1st Ave
(10th & 11th Sts)
New York, NY 10003
212-777-7773

This was my fourth visit to Momofuku, and there must be a reason why I keep coming back, but each time I leave not quite satisfied. I think I just really like the concept of steamed buns with pork and chicken and egg over rice, but the dishes lack flavor at Momofuku.

The other issue is that there is always a wait. So the concept of a neighborhood noodle bar is great, the concept behind the menu is great, overall the concept is great, but the execution is lacking. Too many people, too long a wait both standing and sitting, and not enough taste to really get my appetite going.

The steamed buns are pretty good, as the Berkshire pork is fatty and the sliced cucumber gave it a little crunch, but again, there isn’t enough kick in it to make it truly memorable. The signature poached egg is added in most noodle and rice dishes, but despite its novelty, it doesn’t add much flavor to the dishes. I leave craving steamed buns and chicken and egg, but not from Momofuku, and wonder where I can find a place that will satiate this craving.

Also in Asian, East Village, Pork