Chilled Spicy Noodles at Momofuku Noodle Bar
"Every single time I go into Momofuku, which is frequently, I promise myself I am gonna order something different. But then I get there and it's like everything else on the menu becomes a blur (besides the smoked chicken wings). Every time I order it, the server asks me, 'Have you ordered this before?', to which I respond, 'Yes, of course.' They do this because this. shit. is. spicy! You don't really notice it the first couple of ramen bites, then BAM — this piercing, clean heat fills your tastebuds. That's when it's time to move onto picking out the sausage, spinach and candied cashews. Oh god, it's good."

Momofuku Noodle Bar, 171 1st Avenue (at 11th Street); 212-777-7773.

Photo: Gabriele Stabile