THIS RESTAURANT IS NOW A PRIVATE EVENT SPACE The General

THIS RESTAURANT IS NOW A PRIVATE EVENT SPACE The General Restaurant Review:

Food appreciators (or “foodies,” as they don’t like to be called) might be lured to this massive 250-seat restaurant, thanks to Hung Huynh’s pedigree: the chef at the Meatpacking District’s Catch and Top Chef season 3 winner is clearly talented. Some of that kitchen pizzazz is eclipsed by the scene-y vibe at this Lower East Side restaurant. But try not to let it distract your attention from what’s on the plate. Skip the sushi rolls, which are seasoned with enough spices and other non-traditional ingredients that it takes away from the main show (the fish) and head straight for various pan-Asian small plates: the Chinese chicken tacos, while tiny, are complemented by a spicy/sweet chili sauce. Short ribs, flavored with cinnamon and clove, are a standout. So are the Reuben spring rolls, stuffed with provolone, kimchi and corned beef. Desserts are creative and don’t always work, though we do recommend the green tea donut. There are a handful of overpriced wines by the glass and some good house cocktails that can ease the achingly trendy atmosphere.