wagamama Murray Hill: A new restaurant with a lot of vibrant flavors

*All photos by: Danielle Adams

I’m thrilled to share that wagamama, an Asian fusion casual eatery, is opening its 3rd location in Murray Hill on February 6. The UK-based brand offers an assortment of Asian inspired dishes with a twist. Think Chicken Katsu curry, Duck Donburi, Tofu Ramen, and much more. It follows an egalitarian “Bowl to Soul” idea: wholesome, fresh food and a welcoming environment to fill up the body as well as the soul. In honor of this new location, wagamama will feature an exclusive dish, Hot Chicken Katsu curry, at the Murry Hill locale only for a limited time. Also, the first 50 customers on opening day will get a free Hot or Regular Chicken Katsu curry.

In addition to its meat dishes, wagamama Murray Hill will offer a new vegan menu. Its opening coincides with Veganuary, a UK campaign that started in 2014 to motivate people to eat more plant-based food. Veganuary goes from January 7 to February 28. The restaurant will also feature a limited edition vegan dish, Avant Gard’n, a coconut and sriracha vegan ‘egg,’ paired with barbeque-glazed seitan and a few sides. wagamama’s Executive Chef Steve Mangleshot and trailblazing UK vegan chef Gaz Oakley co-created the dish. It will be available for 4 weeks starting January 28 at all its NYC and Boston locations. It’s nice to see that there are so many options here for vegans and meat lovers alike!

Last night, I had the chance to try the food at a media opening dinner. The Avant Gard’n is delicious! It is such a flavorful, colorful dish with healthy ingredients. I also enjoyed the Hot Chicken Katsu curry that has the perfect amount of spiciness. Additionally, the chicken is tender and goes well with the rice and curry sauce. My other favorite items included Vegetable Tempura, Chicken Gyoza, Tofu Ramen, Chicken Pad Thai, and Banana Katsu for dessert.

On top of its food, wagamama has a new cocktail menu. Drink options such as a Lychee Martini and Yuzu Collins will satisfy guests. Mocktails such as Elderflower + Ginger and Cranberry + Blossom will also be available. Such a fascinating mix of flavors!

Plus, wagamama’s restaurant design in Murray Hill is very inviting. Hanging lights and exposed brick walls welcome guests. There’s also a vibrant graffiti mural by London-based street artist Woskerski and chic wood seating. The modern décor pairs well with the Asian fusion cocktails and dishes. Be sure to check out this invigorating hotspot!

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