Express Manna Kitchen 06-11-2009

Location: 28 E. 18th St.
Time: 1pm
People: Sa-Sha, BeBe and myself

Feelings: It was lunchtime in Union Square. After reading about the new Korean Taco cart on Midtown Lunch, we were desperately craving Korean food. The only place I could think for quick take out was Express Manna Kitchen. I have been to Manna for Omu Rice and noodles, and I remember it being solid, but a little pricey for a take out.

BeBe has been diligently adhereing to her no carb diet and passed on ordering. Yes, It is extremely hard to be carb free at Asian food joint! This is why I could never be on no carb diet, but I admire her dedication. Sa-Sha ordered Rock'n'Rice ($10.95), which is a cute name for bi-bim-bap served in hot stone bowl. I ordered tofu chap chae ($7.95 + $1.50 for tofu), which is pretty much what I order at any Korean restaurant.

Sa-Sha enjoyed her Rock'n'Rice. She said, "It's a huge portion, which is good since it's expensive. I like that it came with various banchan and soup as well. The only problem with getting take out is that you don't get the layer of crunchy rice that usually forms when you have the hot stone bowl bi bim bap. It is a little greasy, but I like it that way." She is also a known kimchi connoisseur, and she liked their kimchi stating, "It is crunchy and nicely spiced."

I also liked my tofu chap chae. Usually when it's without beef, the dish tends to be bland, but it was more flavorful than most Korean restaurants I have tried. It was not greasy, and the portion was just right. I still felt it was overpriced since if I spent $10, I could get a better Korean meal at K-town or perhaps at DoSirak nearby. But as far as Korean takeouts go, Manna is a solid choice since I really can't think of anywhere that does Korean takeouts around Union Square.