Momofuku Ssam Bar - Pork buns rule the day as always

July 4th means being able to walk in to restaurants that usually have hour long waits and be seated immediately.

Last year I went to The Spotted Pig (which actually didn't follow my hypothesis since I still waited 1 hour - which was 1 hour less than normal still...)

This year having just moved downtown I decided to walk on over to Ssam Bar.

This isn't the first time I've been to Ssam Bar.  I went a couple years ago when it first opened and it was a VERY different restaurant.

In its first incarnation - Ssam bar was supposed to be a quick Korean takeout joint serving up wraps somewhat like a burrito with high end fillings like signature Berkshire pork and and kimchi puree along with shitake mushrooms and edamame.

This version of Ssam failed.  Burned out quickly and people were afraid wunderkind chef David Chang was a one-note show.

However, after a second try at a new concept - Ssam bar was born - centered around the bo ssam -pork butt for 10 - something everyone must try at least once.  Order ahead to reserve - it's perfect for a birthday party or other special event.

For ordinary nights - one of my favorites is the spicy pork sausage and rice cakes - but only if you are a fan of spicy.

They aren't kidding around - the red chiles really give it a kick - no need for extra sriracha on this one.  The rice cakes are crispy on the outside, gooey on the inside.

For a snack - the pork buns are always my go to choice.  Served at the Noodle Bar, Ssam and Milk Bar - they are a signature David Chang classic.  The pork belly pretty much melts in your mouth - Chang's version kicks all the rest out of the park.

Tomorrow I will be back for the Pork & Egg buns at Milk Bar (we know Momofuku does some of the best eggs in town) - insiders say it's the best hangover cure!

Momofuku Ssam Bar
207 2nd Ave (at 13th Street)