Today, wagamama is opening its third New York City location. The new location is in the heart of the city just a few blocks from Grand Central Station. wagamama is a popular British chain of Asian restaurants that began in the UK over 20 years ago. Its humble beginnings spawned a massive empire of over 120 locations spread out over 20 countries. Prior to the official grand opening, we had the honor of attending an exclusive dinner at the new Murray Hill location. The evening was hosted by Executive Chef Steven Mangleshot with special guest, vegan chef Gaz Oakley. The evening gave us a glimpse inside the new restaurant and a chance to experience the flavors of wagamama. The Murray Hill location is an industrial chic masterpiece of steel gray and wood elements with chrome and glass accents. This aesthetic is similar to the flat iron and east village locations, with a few upgrades including higher ceilings, brighter lighting, and one of a kind mural by London graffiti artist Woskerski. The location also features a full bar, open kitchen, and two long communal tables in the center of the dining room. We gathered around the long tables for cocktails, conversation, and Japanese inspired cuisine.
One of the newest additions to the wagamama menu is a fired up chicken Katsu curry dish created by the executive chef. Chef Steven has been with wagamama for 18 years, traveling the world and bringing new flavors and techniques to the brand. For this familiar staple, the chef amplified the heat, creating a sinus-clearing dish that is filling and scrumptious. For this dish, the chicken is pounded flat, breaded and fried to a crisp, then smothered in a mound of rice, topped with spicy curry. This isn’t for the faint of heart. Though the spice level is much higher than expected, it doesn’t take away from the flavors, it is absolutely delicious.
In addition to its animal-based proteins, wagamama also has a vegan menu featuring plant-based versions of familiar foods. The brand has partnered with Chef Gaz Oakley and created a unique rice bowl featuring his famous vegan egg. The egg substitute is made of coconut and sriracha. This gastronomic marvel has the texture and runniness of a soft boiled egg but is handcrafted without an ounce of chicken DNA. The dish is called the “Avant Gard’n”. It is a rice bowl featuring an assortment of colorful fresh veggies and a generous helping of barbecue glazed seitan. As carnivores, the vegan dish had us confused but pleasantly surprised. The well-seasoned seitan gave us the meaty beefy texture we love with a smoky barbecue flavor. The egg added a sweet creamy component that complemented the crisp savory veggies. Though we aren’t ready to make a full commitment to a vegan lifestyle, this dish may inspire a meatless Monday or two.
wagamama offers a selection of Ramen with various proteins, including incredible short rib and pork belly versions. The short rib ramen is outstanding. The broth is well seasoned and rich with the distinct flavor of roasted beef. The short rib was tender with a smokey grilled taste.
The Okazu section of the menu has an assortment of tasty finger foods to enjoy. Okazu can be a side or an appetizer to be enjoyed at any point in the meal. The gyoza or dumpling is a satisfying option. We recommend the pan-fried duck gyoza, it was our favorite of the evening. The outer layer is crisp and the inside juicy and tender. The dipping sauce is a sweet and sour complement to the duck.
If you prefer a spicy starter the chili squid is a must have. This isn’t your ordinary fried calamari. Instead of rings, the squid is cut into strips that resemble crinkle cut fries and doused with spicy chili seasoning. The spice level is manageable and the squid cooked perfectly.
After a big savory meal, you can indulge your sweet tooth with an assortment of desserts including a crispy banana katsu with salted caramel ice cream. The banana is breaded and fried just like the katsu chicken with a drizzle of salted caramel.
wagamama isn’t just good food, it is a dining experience. The staff is trained to leave the customer not just fed but happy. There is a jovial light-hearted atmosphere at wagamama that you won’t find in most local restaurants. Our server for the evening, Richard, was a warm welcoming presence that kept us entertained and well taken care of. He had extensive knowledge of the menu and how each dish is prepared. The service alone is worth the trip downtown. wagamama Murray Hill is nice enough for a date night but casual enough to invite the whole family. Ditch the takeout menu and stop by for an excellent meal made with fresh ingredients served with a smile.
wagamama Murray Hill is located at 605 3rd Ave, New York, NY. Welcome to the neighborhood, wagamama!
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