Ugly Kitchen Restaurant Review

103 First Ave. (E. 7th St.) Send to Phone

212-777-6677 | Make Restaurant Reservations

Price

$$$$$

Sometimes the name says it all---but not in the case of Ugly Kitchen.

Cuisine

Open

Dinner Mon.-Sat.

Features

Full bar
Open late
Casual

* Click here for rating key

Despite what its name may suggest, there is nothing unsightly about this East Village establishment. The front room is sleek and dimly lit and the place transitions seamlessly from restaurant in the evening to lounge in the wee hours, and the waitstaff is refreshingly attitude free. But it's the inventive Argentinean-Korean menu that distinguishes Ugly Kitchen. Appetizers like the spicy pork buns take a creative twist: braised pork in a sweet and spicy sauce is cushioned between a steamed bun while the "ugly" dumplings are fried to a crisp. The "ugly" rib-eye accompanied by olive oil-infused potato confit is cooked in classic Argentinean style; a chimichurri sauce complements the robust flavors of the seared steak. Pair the steak with a Malbec from Mendoza or sample a cocktail, such as the pear basil martini, a blend of pear purée, juices and vodka. In short, the well-executed food will entice you to dine, while the drinks will invite you to linger.

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