Pier NYC 08-12-2012

Location: 425 Main St. Roosevelt Island
Time: 3pm
People: 15 Ramen and Friends: ALev, MGru, MLev, KikaEats, JB, Ric, Naz, Merry, Yasmin, JLam, JT, Ava, RB, CK and myself

Feelings: Who would have thought Roosevelt Island would be a summer destination spot? Although Roosevelt Island sports the Manhattan zip code with stunning scenery, it has always been known as a  passage between Queens and Manhattan. Now with Cornell's plan for the new campus, the popularity on this island of haunted 'Dark Water' fame is on the rise.

Pier NYC, a waterfront cafe on the West Promenade with stunning views of the Manhattan skyline, features some of the ultimate summer fun food: BBQ from John Brown Smokehouse in LIC, seafood from David Santos of Per Se and desserts from Allycakes. And don't forget wine, cocktails and beer.

The seafood, especially the crab cake sandwich ($10) and Rock Shrimp Roll ($12) were excellent. Most of us enjoyed the fresh seafood more than the BBQ, which was not as tender as we have hoped. RB even had his first raw oyster experience here. He'll never forget the summer of 2012.

The desserts, whoopie pies and brownies, were disappointing, however. "MGru and I agreed that the icing should've been cream cheese, not some dry vanilla butter cream," said JB about the dry whoopie pies. I assume the issue was that these desserts were sitting around all day in the heat, not being able to retain the delicious moisture. When JB showed her concerns, the amazing folks at Pier NYC decided not to charge for any of our desserts.

We were all pleasantly surprised by the staff's dedications and amazing service. This is certainly not like any other boroughs or any Tri state area. They were expedient and straight forward, just like any good New Yorkers but with a charm and warmth of proper Southern bells and the kindness and wise manners of Obi-wan Kenobi. "The service was very good. The waitress did a good job, and the manager was very solicitous," said Yasmin. JB added, "Our waitress was really gracious about all requests from the lackluster dessert to splitting up our bill, and the manager was really helpful. I'd go back just for the service myself."

We may not be able to afford Per Se, but we can certainly experience superb service and the view at Pier NYC for all under $15. "I think the spot is very nice-- great change of scenery and a nice outdoor option," said Merry. With a fun tramway ride (You just need your Metrocard, no additional cost), you don't need to go further for your summer adventure. Head to Pier NYC today! This excellent pop up cafe will be open until October 31st.