Mamo

It had been several years since I made it up to New York City. A friend’s movie filming and another friend’s big promotion were as good of excuses as any to get back to the City that Never Sleeps. Any time I’ve visited, no matter what the occasion, as a foodie I couldn’t help but indulge in the city’s dynamic culinary scene, and this time was no different. 

The first stop on this trip was a delightful little Italian restaurant in the heart of Soho called Mamo. My dear friend knowing my foodie appetite and affinity for Italian food booked us a table, and it did not disappoint.

If you are a seafood lover, this restaurant is a must-try! But before I get to the food, what was most notable upon entering the restaurant was its warm and homey, yet elegant, upscale feel. The old-school movie posters, soft lighting, and cozy bar on the first floor offered a unique charm that was undeniable.

For an appetizer, we started with the Insalata di polpo e ceci (octopus salad), which included chickpeas, tomatoes, cherry peppers, and basil leaves. Delicioso! It was so fresh you would think they plucked that octopus right out of the sea.

Normally I would have gone for what my friend ordered, which was the angel hair with shrimp and pistachios. (I had a bite and it was yummy). But when I saw the fish of the day on the specials menu, they had me at branzino. This succulent seabass was served in a lemon butter sauce and fresh herbs. This fish for two (thanks mom for sharing) was accompanied by a fresh garden salad with a simple but delightful vinaigrette. Chef’s kiss!

Considering that Mamo also has a location in Miami and I tend to make it down there more often, a visit to the Sunshine State’s location is definitely afoot! You know, for research purposes and all (insert smile here). 

The next day we headed to another restaurant with a Miami location, Zuma. Mom and I first visited the Miami location, which is located inside the beautiful Kimpton Hotel Epic, years ago and fell in love. So of course, when in New York, we had to test and see if the New York location could live up to its sister restaurant down south. 

This upscale, trendy restaurant in midtown Manhattan offers both traditional and unique Japanese cuisine, in my opinion, bursting with flavor in every good way possible. We opted for lunch considering our late afternoon train back to D.C. and intentionally chose dishes that we hadn’t tried at the other location.

I started with the miso soup, which was perfect for a crisp spring day, and offered just the right amount of flavor and warmth. Next, I ventured onto the pirikara hamachi maki roll, which was a spicy yellowtail roll with serrano pepper, avocado, wasabi mayo. I normally wouldn’t choose a roll with that much kick, but I was feeling adventurous. I was assured that it was not a burn-your-mouth type of heat, and my waitress was spot on. It was absolutely delicious, especially adding the fresh sliced ginger to the mix. Mom chose two appetizers, the chicken skewers with spring onion and rock shrimp tempura with chili tofu. The sauce that they served with the latter was amazing. 

Another thing to note about Zuma is the authenticity and stunning beauty of the decor. The attention to detail is unmatched. I’ve never been to Japan, but you couldn’t tell me that I wasn’t there on that afternoon. It’s also important to share that the service at both restaurants was impeccable.

When in New York, do yourself a favor and make it a point to visit these two dope restaurants, but please make sure you make a reservation. Others know how great they are too. You’re welcome!