Aidann Gia Bacolodan, Pace University

Living in the heart of New York City—the complex, diverse borough of Manhattan—offers opportunities to taste a plethora of flavors from cultures spanning the globe. I often feel that I indulge in foods of the same regions: American, Mediterranean, and Italian. Although I do love these favorable staples, my palate craves more spice and tastes reminiscent of home. Marlie, a close friend and peer of mine, and I spent our lunch exploring the wild and unique platters at an Asian-fusion locale. Just around the corner from the New York University campus sits Love Mama, an establishment I now claim as one of my top five favorites spots in the city. I find this hidden gem to be the most memorable and delicious out of the affordable, casual, sit-down spots. Other comparable food vendors lean on the expensive side, or their dishes simply match their low prices, but Love Mama is inexplicably inexpensive for their quality level of food.

To start, the friendly staff placed several pieces of roti planta, which were crispy fluffy roti dough and lentil dipping sauce. I found this appetizer as airy, crispy on the outside, and truly healing. I needed that roti more than I knew. I devoured each bite, especially because of the complimentary dipping sauce, memorable from its vibrant yellow color and sweet after taste.

A classic plate of colorful pad thai served us well, showcasing an abundance of greens, onions, and protein. I happily noted the pad thai’s sweet radish, egg, chopped chives, bits of beats, roasted peanuts, fresh lime juice, and paprika. 

The charcoal-grilled Malaysian chicken satay shish-kebab was marinated in cumin, smoky seasoning, and a peanut sauce. This platter was incredibly savory, which paired well with the northern Thai-style papaya salad. The side dish constituted of freshly pounded papaya, sliced carrot, roasted peanuts, diced tomatoes, and a fresh lime dressing.

”The papaya salad was refreshing, it was the perfect crisp palate cleanser between the heavier dishes,” Marlie noted as we consumed our filling spread. “Across the board the meat was very well seasoned and cooked.”

A red curry was presented shortly after our previous platters, characterized by its freshly pounded red chili paste, egg plant, bell pepper, long beans, and fresh basil leaves. Typically, I don’t order curry. I find its flavor to be catered towards other food connoisseurs, as it’s an acquired taste. In this case, it was a kitchen order sent to change my mind on the dish entirely. I didn’t know I could enjoy a curry the way I had. The mixed soup was warm, flavorful, and necessary for recovering from the tumultuous week.

”The Thai red curry? It was so good. So good.I recommend eating it with the roti, which was top notch,” Marlie raved. “You can taste the differences in spices in the different types of cuisine, but they all blend very well together.”

A mango sticky rice finalized our afternoon, emboldened by its lovely sweetness and sesame topping. It was a simple desert: a juicy, sliced mango set atop a bed of rice soaked in a sugary concoction. The elegant presentation only enhanced my experience at Love Mama.

“As for the mango sticky rice, it was very good! Even though I was bloated and completely full, I still had room for the sticky rice which was the perfect end to lunch. It balanced out the intense flavors, so the unique, pungent flavors didn’t linger afterwards,” Marlie commented on the desert.

“I found the service  to be excellent and the dishes altogether worked nicely,” Marlie concluded her thoughts. “These dishes were versatile, you could mix and match them but they still harmonize!”

I would come to Love Mama on a weekly basis, if my schedule at Pace University permitted. My two main takeaways of the day were the unforgettable, piping hot, roti starter and the beautiful bowl of red curry with white rice. I fully intend on taking my parents to try this blend of Asian cultures in a singular spot. For those in search of a well priced authentic Asian-fusion experience, look no further than Love Mama. For New York City students, bring a valid university or college ID for a worthwhile discount!

Aidann Gia Bacolodan, Pace University

I had never heard of Black Forest cake, a german layer cake composed of cocoa powder, cherries, and whipped cream, until my close friend Amanda abruptly squealed upon reading its name on the menu at Orion Diner and Grill. Apparently, she has failed to find her favorite dessert in Manhattan time and time again. As fate would have it, the quaint establishment we would be spending our evening in had it as one of their specialties. The Orion Diner and Grill, situated just around the corner from Baruch College, serves as a casual, sit-down restaurant for individuals from all walks of life, including famished college students.

Diners welcome a feeling of nostalgia, friendliness, and comfort, emitted through their wide selection of foods and laid-back environment. Orion was no different. Amanda and I immediately sat in a cushioned booth, ready to order two classic milkshakes, a platter of mozzarella sticks, and a heaping portion of fried calamari. The two of us agreed that diners would never go out of style, and could always be a haven for reliable, delicious, hot meals. Our filling appetizers proved us right, arriving promptly and piping-hot to our table, served with generous sides of marinara sauce and lemon slices. The chocolate and vanilla milkshakes were creamy, smooth, and slightly sweet—all necessary traits for a beverage meant to wash down a three course meal.

“The calamari rings get bonus points. They’re my favorite,” Amanda reviewed. “For the mozzarella sticks, the ratio of breading to cheese is immaculate. Such a great cheese pull!”

After devouring our first plates, we decided to place an order for a cheeseburger with a side of curly fries and a chipotle chicken wrap with onion rings. Our main courses were served by a sociable waiter, eager to chat and make conversation. The crispy, golden brown curly fries were a diner staple. My cheeseburger had fresh tomatoes, leafy-green lettuce, and a soft brioche bun, which was perfect for a hearty dinner. Amanda had no leftovers of her wrap, and was visibly content with her meal.

“The wrap had a great portion size. The chicken was juicy and tender, pretty much cooked to perfection,” she reflected. “My meal paired well with the onion rings. Definitely a ten out of ten for those!”

Lastly, we wrapped up our evening with a caramel sundae and slice of Black Forest cake. My caramel sundae was rimmed with whipped cream and a chocolate drizzling, perfected with a warm brownie-like, chocolate, nutty base. The differences in texture between the various elements of the dessert kept the dish enticing and appealing. I preferred it over the Black Forest cake, though Amanda had a different opinion.

“I was so excited about it, because nowhere else in New York City has it,” she eagerly noted. “The portion slice was absolutely huge! There was a good amount of cherry, with a perfect ratio to the cakey portion.”

Our favorite aspects of the restaurant were the classic diner atmosphere, a plentiful menu of more than traditional American dishes, and the unique Black Forest cake. Amanda expressed a keen interest in returning solely just for her favorite dessert part. I’ll be back to try their selection of Greek foods! Overall, the Orion Diner and Grill is a great choice for casual dining after a long day of classes and office hours, especially with a group of friends. Thankfully, the establishment has partnered with the Campus Clipper to offer students a 15% discount when they present this coupon and their valid student ID.