Wild Ginger Vegetarian Kitchen
$$ - average
Chinese, Vietnamese, Malaysian, Eclectic (Varied)
Gourmet Pan-Asian cuisine, 95% Vegan, moderately priced
Just opened. Pan-Asian cuisine, 95% vegan, moderately priced, in the heart of Little Italy. Intimate ambiance. Take-out is available from noon to 11PM, midnight on weekends.
380 Broome Street, between Mott and Mulberry. Number Six subway line to Spring Street stop. Exit Spring St. Station at Lafayette St. Two blocks east to Mulberry St. Two block south to Broome St.
- Delivery
- Happy Hour
- Kid-Friendly
- Quiet
- Romantic
Added by winnie liu on Aug 19 05 (updated Aug 19 05)
Reviews
Wild Ginger seems to be trying to transition from Wild Ginger Vegetarian Restaurant to Wild Ginger Vegan Cafe, but it's not really a cafe vibe, at least at dinner, and I still felt like I had to be clear about making sure soymilk was coming in my Thai iced tea, and not cow's milk, because both options are still available. Other than that, though, I felt fairly confident in assurances that even the items on the menu originally marked "(not vegan)" had been veganized, my party and I ordered three appetizers: Taro and yam tempura, Mu-Shu rolls, Soy chicken nuggets.
These were a pretty good start. I didn't have any of the rolls, what with there being only two, and me not knowing how to easily share a roll with a chopstick. I was mainly keen on the tempura and the nuggets, both of which were very satisfying, except perhaps for the taro tempura, which did not provide the immediate pleasure of the yam tempura. The taro wasn't exactly bad, but I didn't really respond to it, if that makes any sense.
I did respond to my dinner, though. Described as plainly as possible as Teriyaki Wheat Gluten, you may be able to see from the photo that it was basically mock duck. I didn't know that until I realized that the crispier exterior was supposed to be mock skin. That was kind of disturbing until I got over it, since fake is fake. The moist interior and crispy, tangy teriyaki exterior made for a flavorful combination, and the snap peas were nice and crispy.
I liked the Singapore-style Mei-Fun, too. It was pretty subtle for a dish described as containing curry. While it had a slight curry flavor that I liked, it wasn't exactly what we were expecting from previous curry experiences. The vegetable "fish" was okay. Not bad, but not delectable, either. Mainly just an easy form of protein for a dish that is mainly noodles and a smattering of bright, colorful veggies.
I tried a bite of some other items around the table, and that was a mixed bag. Writing this so late, I can't remember what the items were called, but one other more obviously curry dish was only okay, while another guest seemed to like his pineapple fried rice quite a bit (though I didn't have a chance to try any), and I remember trying and liking one other dish, but I can't remember for the life of me what he had. So, all in all, it was a pretty good experience. Original for the most part and quite good overall. I'd go back and try some other items.
Wild Ginger is a great addition to our neighborhood and the vegetarian community. The food is excellent, well priced and the service is very friendly.
Their appetizers are all great. Some are standards with a twist like scallion pancakes with mango salsa and some are very original and very tasty.
The main courses come with a choice of soup or salad and are very well sized and delicious! You won't leave hungry!
Desserts can be tricky when they are vegan, but they got that covered too at Wild Ginger. Try the pumpkin pie!
I liked it and I usually do not even like pumpkin pie.
They do not have a liquor license yet, but they make a very refreshing virgin mojito and they have an extensive array of fine teas and juices too.
Wild Ginger is a small restaurant that is greatly cared for by its owners. There are fresh flowers with every meal (orchids last night!) and pleasant background music.
We have been to wild ginger three times in the last ten days and it has been a pleasant and satisfying experience every time.
And they even have outdoor seating!
Summary: The food is similar to Gobo's but less pricey. The atmosphere is pleasant and intimate. Wild Ginger is nicely decorated but low key with attention to detail.
Highly recommended.
This place just opened, and we were there on a Friday night.Intimate ambiance, candlelight, great music. We had dumplings and bb-qued seitan skewers, and some spinach salad. Then Mango seitan vegetable medley, basil- garlic asparagus and green beans, and a Malaysian curry stew, and coconut rice--all beautiful. The sauces (ten of them) really complement the veggies, they don't drown them out. Service was perfect. The owners are a young Chinese couple, Winnie and Tim.
I really liked this place. Our seitan skewer appetizer was a perfect blend of sweet and spicy; the basil soy protein was spicy, fresh and crispy, with an array of colorful vegetables; the shredded tofu was light and well-seasoned, though could have used a bit more spice. Our desserts were both spectacular, from the chocolate vegan cheesecake to the peanut butter bomb, which was rich and decadent. Service was friendly, if a bit slow. Prices are reasonable and the portions are just right.