November 16, 2009
You didn’t think NYC Food Guy could stay away for this long, did you? I didn’t either, but here we are, more than four months since the last review. A complete change of schedule at my day job gave me a life beyond eating for the first time in three years and unfortunately the blog suffered. Big time. But I’m back for good, so let’s get to the real reason you’re here: My first taste of Szechuan cuisine, Cantonese Chinese food’s bolder, spicier cousin, at newcomer Lan Sheng Szechuan Restaurant on 39th street b/t 5th & 6th Ave. Three people, thirteen dishes and one fiery eating adventure.

For this meal, my friend Steve invited me to a press dinner during Lan Sheng’s opening weeks. His friend Robert, a writer and respected Chinese food expert would lead our meal through a constant stream of the chef’s finest dishes. Since it was so early in the restaurant’s existence, I omitted prices since they may have changed. Certain aspects of the dishes, particularly regarding presentation, may have changed as well. If you’re confused, feel free to email me: lawrence@nycfoodguy.com
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July 13, 2009
There’s finally a reason to remain in Midtown when the clock strikes 5PM on weekdays (and starting at 12PM weekends): the new “Southwest Porch” at 40th Street and 6th Avenue in Manhattan’s Bryant Park. The venture combines Southwest Airlines, who’s celebrating their first flights out of LaGuardia, with a menu from Tom Colicchio and his two partners in the ‘wichcraft sandwich shops.

Sandwiches (2 for $9), cheese, cured meats, and cookies are all served on small plates intended for sharing while the drink menu features 3 mixology-quality cocktails ($9 each), a “Southwest Summer Ale” specially brewed by Blue Point beer, two beers from Six Point ($7/beer), and 2 types each of red and white wine ($8/glass).

Surprising value and the backyard chic setting (pillowed Adirondack chairs, porch swings and couches) make it easy to forget you’re a block from Times Square. Read on for food reviews and all the info on being a part of the summer fun at “The Southwest Porch.”

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July 8, 2009
I had to shake my head and smile as I re-read the title to this post. Beer and wine paired with cupcakes? A revolutionary idea to say the least. But in the end, how can you really go wrong? Especially when the cupcakes are as ridiculously delicious as the ones at Sweet Revenge. I tried three of the four sizable Signature cupcakes ($3.50 each) and was blown away by the vibrancy of the flavors and the delicate richness of the frosting and fillings (yes, one cupcake is filled with decadent chocolate ganache). Read on for some seriously sinful photos…

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July 7, 2009
After discovering the bargain that is Puebla’s $5.50 fried chicken torta, I was surprised to see that the $8.50 chicken mole poblano platter provides even more deliciousness for your dollar; it’s enough give you dinner for two days! Tender, pulled chicken breast stewed in a spicy, sweet and smokey mole Poblano is served with flavorful, fluffy yellow rice, creamy black beans, and steaming-hot tortillas perfect for creating a chicken-rice-black bean taco. I’ve ordered this dish countless times and never been disappointed, even when bringing it to the office and reheating it in the microwave. The key to nuking it back to life is placing 2 to 3 damp paper towels on top of your plate, thereby preventing the food from drying out.

Puebla Mexican Food & Coffee Shop
47 1st Ave near 3rd Street New York, NY 10003
212-473-6643 $10 Minimum for Delivery
Open Mon. – Fri. 7AM-11PM, Sat. 7AM-12AM, Sun. 10AM-12AM
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July 1, 2009
Whenever the conversation about Manhattan’s best burger arises, Corner Bistro, the self proclaimed “last of the bohemian bars in west Greenwich Village,” always seems to get a mention. My question is always “why?” Despite being broiled, the burger is par-cooked and flavorless. The only saving graces are a plethora of toppings which divert attention away from a lackluster patty. I respect an old school bar that offers $2.50 beers all night and serves burgers until 4AM, so if you’re looking for a drunken nightcap, head on over. But to call Corner Bistro one of the best burgers in Manhattan is a disservice to all of the finely crafted ones out there.

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