Milu is a casual Chinese eatery in New York. You order your food at the counter, McD-style, and clear your own table afterwards. The upside is that you get to enjoy some really great food at prices much lower than what would be the case with white tablecloths settings and waiters attending to you.
One of the most raved-about dishes at Milu is the Mandarin Duck, which is served with marinated cucumber and duck fat rice. It comes with their delicious homemade hoisin sauce on the side, making it an obvious choice.
I’ve previously tasted duck fat potatoes (a brilliant combo!), but duck fat rice? Yes! Yes! YES! It’s unbelievably, out-of-this-world, delicious! Duck, duck fat, and a hoisin sauce made in heaven. It really doesn’t get much better than this!
Another Milu specialty is their Pineapple Buns, which actually has a pineapple custard filling. Because in spite of the name, traditional Hong Kong pineapple buns do not contain any pineapple, but got their name because of the crusty topping, which looks a bit like the surface of a pineapple. The bun is served hot with a thick slab of butter that melts while you eat the bun and makes the inside moist and buttery. The verdict? Pineapple buns with pineapple, – such a great idea! (is anyone surprised?).
Milu, 333 Park Ave S, New York
If you like cooking Asian dishes at home, this is one of those staples you’ll keep reaching for. It’s packed with that deep, savory umami flavor that instantly makes everything taste better, whether you’re glazing roasted meat or tossing it with veggies. I always like having a bottle (or two) in the pantry for those quick, flavor-packed meals.
