Hangawi @ NYC ****

Organic Zen Noodles

For those of us who associate Korean cuisine with a carniverous feeding frenzy, Hangawi presents the most pleasant surprise that the prospect of being served only vegetables does not have to limit ones ordering options. With nary a BBQ grill in sight, and with a menu as extensive as Dirt Candy’s is limited, here is a place where vegetarians can feast. The silky texture of the organic zen noodles slipping down my throat amid the savour of sesame oil caused me to forget that meat was missing. And despite sampling all manner of gimbop (Korean-style sushi rolls), assorted leek, kimchi, and pumpkin pancakes, as well as the classic bimbim bap, additional choices still tempted me enough to plot the rare repeat visit.  Enshrined behind massive wooden doors, the restaurant, located on E 32nd St, stands in stark contrast to the rest of K-town, bustling, better-known, more brightly lit, and just one block away stretching along W 32nd St. As austere as Woo Lae Oak is trendy, to enter is to take refuge. And oh, don’t forget to take off your shoes.        

Details: 12E 32nd St (between 5th & Madison) New York, NY 10016 (+1-212-213-0077)