THE PLACE: Shortly before the pandemic, I remember stopping by Nowon for a really fantastic bowl of clams in a black bean sauce. It very much felt like a late night bar stop with a burgeoning menu of Asian-influenced bar bites. Coming back all these years later, it was nice to see them in the daylight serving a bustling crowd at brunch with full tables both inside and out. They’ve had years to grow (and they have since expanded outside the neighborhood) and I was eager to finally try one of their most lauded dishes.
THE MENU: I knew what I was ordering here, but Nowon really leans into their commitment to bar food. The menu is full of gutbombs with creative plays on tater tots, chopped cheese, and fried chicken. They all sound like tasty experiments, but as I’ve gotten older, it also sounds like it could be a ticket to my cardiologist. Hence the salad alongside the burger.
THE DISH: I finally got to try their self-proclaimed Legendary Burger. Over the years, it’s been very much praised and I always had it on my list to try. I do believe it lives up to the hype, although the name might be overstating things just a tad. The umami-seasoned patties are grilled so well with a nice juicy bite and lots of charred peppery notes. The bun also hosts a mound of kimchi which gives it a unique flavor and texture, while the melted American cheese grounds it very much in nostalgia. Best burger in the city? I don’t know, but it’s definitely one to continue to talk about. Price: $21
| NOWON |
| 507 East 6th Street (between Avenue A and Avenue B), Alphabet City |
| nowonusa.com |
