Bua Thai Ramen Robata Grill has quickly become a popular spot in New York City, offering a unique fusion of Thai and Japanese cuisines. This review delves into their menu, atmosphere, and overall dining experience to help you decide if it's worth a visit. We'll explore their ramen, robata grill offerings, and other menu highlights, looking at both the positive and negative aspects based on various online reviews and personal experience.
Exploring the Bua Thai Ramen Robata Grill Menu
The menu at Bua Thai Ramen Robata Grill is a testament to its fusion concept. It successfully blends familiar Thai flavors with Japanese culinary techniques, creating exciting and often unexpected combinations.
Ramen Delights: A Fusion of Flavors
Bua's ramen selection is a highlight, featuring unique broth bases and topping combinations. Instead of the traditional pork-based tonkotsu, expect innovative options like:
- Tom Yum Ramen: This spicy and sour ramen features the iconic Tom Yum soup base, infused with lemongrass, galangal, and kaffir lime leaves. The addition of ramen noodles adds a textural element that complements the vibrant broth.
- Green Curry Ramen: A creamy and aromatic green curry broth provides the base, enriched with coconut milk and Thai green curry paste. It's a milder option for those who enjoy the subtle spice of green curry.
- Spicy Miso Ramen: This ramen combines the umami depth of miso with a fiery kick of chili oil. It successfully blends Japanese miso flavors with Thai spice preferences.
While the ramen is generally praised for its unique flavor profiles, some reviews mention that the noodle texture can sometimes be inconsistent.
Robata Grill Specialties: Charcoal-Grilled Delights
The robata grill section showcases a variety of meats, seafood, and vegetables cooked over charcoal. The charring adds a smoky flavor that complements the marinated ingredients. Popular choices include:
- Chicken Yakitori: Skewers of marinated chicken, expertly grilled to achieve a juicy and flavorful result.
- Salmon Teriyaki: The rich sweetness of teriyaki sauce perfectly enhances the delicate flavor of grilled salmon.
- Vegetable Skewers: A mix of seasonal vegetables, offering a lighter alternative to the meat options.
Reviews suggest that the robata grill items are cooked to perfection, showcasing the skill of the chefs. However, portions can be on the smaller side, especially compared to other robata grill establishments.
Beyond Ramen and Robata: Appetizers and More
Bua also offers a variety of appetizers and other dishes, further demonstrating the fusion concept:
- Thai Spring Rolls: Fresh and flavorful, a classic appetizer that many rave about.
- Edamame: Steamed and lightly salted edamame, a simple yet satisfying dish.
- Various Curries: They offer a selection of Thai curries, including red, green, and massaman, that are often considered among the best aspects of the dining experience.
These dishes often round out the dining experience, providing a balanced menu selection.
Atmosphere and Service: A New York City Vibe
Bua Thai Ramen Robata Grill boasts a modern and stylish atmosphere. The restaurant is usually clean, bright, and inviting. The service is generally efficient and friendly, but like many NYC restaurants, can depend on how busy they are. During peak hours, expect some potential wait times and a busier feel.
Price Point: Worth the Cost?
The pricing at Bua is generally considered moderate to slightly high for the portion sizes. While the quality of ingredients and preparation justifies the cost for many, some diners might find the portions to be a little small for the price.
Overall: A Verdict on Bua Thai Ramen Robata Grill
Bua Thai Ramen Robata Grill is a worthwhile culinary experience for those seeking a unique fusion of Thai and Japanese flavors in NYC. The innovative ramen options and expertly grilled robata items are definitely highlights. While some might find the portions a little small for the price, and the wait times can be long during peak hours, the overall quality and unique fusion offerings make Bua a compelling dining destination.
Pros:
- Unique fusion of Thai and Japanese cuisine.
- Excellent quality of ingredients.
- Expertly prepared ramen and robata grill items.
- Stylish and modern atmosphere.
Cons:
- Portion sizes can be small for the price.
- Potential wait times during peak hours.
- Noodle consistency in ramen can be inconsistent based on reviews.
This review is based on a combination of online reviews and personal experience. Your individual experience might vary. I strongly suggest checking their website for the most up-to-date menu and hours of operation before your visit.
