Sammy's Noodle Shop & Grill

Contributor

Citysearch

The Scene
The succession of dining, takeout, and kitchen areas appears never-ending as it meanders for half a city block, finally terminating in an unused corner ala the Flatiron building. A quiet Chinese-food delivery shop on most weeknights, Sammy's explodes with young and eclectic West Villagers at the peak weekend sittings -- and the staff turns the food out pronto.

The Food
The Chinese menu is large, but remember: It's called a noodle shop for a reason. Order the noodle and soup dishes, as well as their dumplings and fried rice cousins. Cantonese roasted meats are also surefire, as are several of the small appetizer plates like sticky rice wrapped in lotus leaves with red bean paste. Don't miss the vibrant sesame spinach or the abundant sautéed watercress with sliced garlic. The vegetable offerings are strong enough to make up for slightly less ambitious meat and seafood entrees.