Every week, I document another dish that impressed and satiated me during my food adventures around New York City
I’ve never been a huge fan of congee. So why on earth did I order it at the new coffee roaster and café El Condor?
Great question. I was torn, actually, because I really wanted something warm and I didn’t feel like spending a whopping $18 on a breakfast sandwich (what could they put in that thing?)
The congee sounded like a better bet for the money ($14) and I liked the idea of fresh ginger and turmeric. So I took a chance.
El Condor is a brand new sleek coffee shop that has a level of seriousness but with a very laid back helpful staff. This is the kind of place where they act like they want you to hang out there all day, every day. Of course that wouldn’t work for anyone because the place feels as small as a Manhattan studio apartment.
The pastries and coffee are all good here (if expensive), but I was pleasantly surprised by the congee.
Perhaps my expectations were low. Congee, for those that don’t know, is a Cantonese rice porridge that is usually made with stock and is usually quite bland. It serves a purpose, but not a dish I usually seek out.
The version at El Condor isn’t bland at all.
It’s made with brown rice which somehow resists the usual dryness of brown rice and takes on an earthy flavor that is enhanced by the potent turmeric oil and fresh ginger. This congee is much less thick and gloopy as others. Instead the rice is full of flavorful liquid but still retains some distinct texture.
I was convinced to add turkey bacon, which is not a topping I usually sway towards. But this turkey bacon was incredibly meaty and added a wonderful smoky salty flavor.
It was a hearty, warming, and filling late morning meal. And while I may not order congee on every menu it appears, I’ll definitely think twice before crossing it off my list of choices. Price: $14
| EL CONDOR |
| 95 Greenwich Avenue (between Bank and West 12th Street), West Village (646) 945-4967 |
| elcondor.coffee |
