Every week, I document another dish that impressed and satiated me during my food adventures around New York City
I sometimes do drive-by restaurant visits. This is very different than take out. This is when I show up solo, most likely sit at the bar, order an appetizer or two, and then am out in less than 30-40 minutes.
I stopped by Wayla, which is one of the trendiest new spots in town, at brunch. I moved past the Saturday brunchers waiting for a table in the cool outdoor patio and sat at the little counter area next to the bar. I ordered one of their more intriguing appetizers, enjoyed it immensely, took a little look around the space, and then was out in 30 minutes flat.
In fairness, I owe it to myself, Wayla, and all the other Instagrammers to come back and have a proper meal. I really would like to because if the rest of the food is as intriguing and delicious as the Moo Sarong, I’ll be very happy.
Moo Sarong is evidently a traditional dish in Thailand but I have never encountered it before in the city’s great Thai restaurants. Doesn’t mean it’s not on another menu, but I’ve never connected with it. And upon googling, it looks like Wayla gets most of the credit for it in the city.
Bite-size pork meatballs are wrapped in a long noodle (yes, one noodle per ball) and then deep fried until golden and crispy. For dipping, you’ll be served a sweet chili sauce that is similar to what might accompany spring rolls.
These are better and more exciting than any greasy spring roll I’ve ever had. The soft meatball is a wonderful surprise inside the pleasant crunch of the noodles. Pringles better guard their famous slogan of not being able to stop once you pop, because it might be more appropriate for this little appetizer.
The six meatballs were small (and addicting) enough to finish quickly. As I walked through the front alcove to the stairs, I noticed all the people who had put their name down when I first arrived still waiting for a table. And I had my whole day ahead of me to go eat some place else. Price: $7.95
| WAYLA |
| 100 Forsyth Street (between Broome and Grand Street), Lower East Side (212) 206-2500 |
| waylanyc.com |
