Buffet-style dining has gotten a bad rap over the years. I blame it on the style of buffet restaurant that tries to cater to every taste. There are Americanized favorites like lo mein and orange-flavored chicken right next to the meat with gravy and potatoes boiled crispy in the French style. On Sundays, there are crab legs. For the health conscious, there are sad-looking salads and boiled vegetables. The end of the meal is capped off by a visit to the soft serve machine, or the soda fountain.
If you're like me, the thought of eating at these places gives you chest spasms and a sense of impending gastric doom. Lately I've taken to watching the Food Network and asking Emeril, "When will you save us, o culinary master?"
Deride the buffet no longer; I have experienced the cathedral of all buffet restaurants here in Manhattan. It's called "Minado," located near Korea Town (around 32nd and Broadway.) It's a seafood-only restaurant, with the exception of dessert. The restaurant does brisk business, with customers lined up for 30-40 yards. You begin at the sushi section, and as you progress down the line foods become boiled, then grilled, then finally deep-fried (tempura). Chefs stand on one side, patrons on the other. In the middle lies an interesting French crepe-making station. The dessert section was especially appreciated for its finger-sized strawberry, blueberry, and blackberry cakes and green tea and red bean ice creams.
For seafood lovers, I highly, highly recommend Minado.
