NYC Special (vegan) Ops: Asian Fusion

Nestled across the looming Smith-9th Street station, Kimchi Grill is an easy stagger from any democratically-elected happy hour haven proximal to my job in Carroll Gardens, Brooklyn. And they have clearly labelled vegan options of their Korean-Mexican fusion. I sampled all three of their veganized tacos–Pomegranate and Roasted Veggies Taco: seasonal roasted vegetables (Korean squash, corn, spinach and spicy pickled pomegranete); Tofu Edamame Falafel Taco: Tofu, a dryish edamame and chickpea patty with kimchi-infused refried beans, cucumber kimchi, pickled daikon and pico de gallo; and the Kimchi Guac: red vegan kimchi infused guacamole with pico de gallo, cucumber kimchi and multi-grain rice topped with green onion. I managed to snap this pic with my unsteady hand before devouring all.

We also got kimchi fries, though not as enjoyable. The kimchi weighed down the fries, softening them to a mushy texture. 

If you can stomach the blasting profane beats in the dark, dirty, cramped, tagged up teenage bedroom vibe, the vegan option at Taiwanese-Chinese fusion of BaoHaus, on 14th Street in Manhattan, hits all necessary taste notes. The Uncle Jesse Bao has house-seasoned crispy fried tofu, crushed peanuts, Taiwanese red sugar, cilantro, and Haus Sauce. Sweet, salty, and crunchy inside a soft, delicate, stark-white bun. Sublime. Every bite. Try their homemade soy milk, too…. if they have any left.