Punxsutawney Phil proclaimed six more weeks of winter, but the food at Lin & Daughters will keep you warm.
Nestled in Manhattan’s Flatiron district, Lin & Daughters opened its second location earlier this month. The casual, cozy café-style restaurant is covered top to bottom with florals and greenery. The menu features a hearty variety of soups, dumplings, and vegetables to round out your dining experience — not to mention wine, beer, and boba to wash it all down.
Drinks On
The vibrantly purple Iced Ube Latte is creamy and sweet, while still maintaining a pleasant earthy ube flavor. The Iced Milk Tea is light and refreshing, with a hint of tartness that keeps the drink crisp.
A Soup and a Salad
The Spicy Sesame Salad was a lovely start to the meal. It’s coated in a creamy, light dressing with a whisper of spice from the ginger. The cucumber, cabbage, and green onions provide a satisfying crunch, with wontons adding even more texture. Just enough carrots bring sweetness, while peanuts add depth of flavor.
Next up was Mom’s Wonton Soup. This light, broth-based soup is savory, with a wonderful hint of sourness and a smooth sesame finish.
All About the Dumplings
The Golden Potato Dumplings are prepared in a style native to Chef Becky’s hometown and are offered in celebration of Lunar New Year. The exterior is chewy and bouncy, similar to mochi, while the inside is dense and comforting.
In contrast, the Pan-Fried Cumin Beef Dumplings are deliciously crispy, with a beautiful sear on the outside and tender, flavorful meat inside. Both dumplings are served with a spicy chili sauce that perfectly rounds out the dishes.
The Main Event
Lastly, we devoured the Yakamein. This rich, salty beef broth soup is filled with tender pieces of beef, succulent shrimp, and thick noodles. It’s topped with a perfectly soft-boiled egg. A subtle miso flavor dances across your tongue with every spoonful. This dish is not only a great way to end the evening, but also a g -to for staying warm during frigid winter nights.
Photo Courtesy: Lin & Daughters, Tessa M. Dobrow
