...But we can try to be. With a group of friends to fortify my resolve, I hopped on the Staten Island Ferry and crossed the bay to our oft-forsaken brother borough to try out Jade Island, boasting the best that Chinese/Polynesian food has to offer. True, it is not as outlandish as many of Bourdain's ventures, but anything that involved the legendary "Pu-pu platter" takes some guts to try.
Once we got to Staten Island we hopped on a bus--it's only passengers for most of the ride--for thirty minutes until we reached our destination: a nearly abandoned strip mall and vast parking lot. Coming from the more densely populated portion of New York City, I felt like I was in Kansas. Or a third dimension. Or purgatory. Regardless, we were there to eat, and eat we did!The stand-outs: their drinks (one of which is called the "Dirty Old Stinker") were incredible! DELICIOUS (which can be attributed to lots of sugar, I'm sure) and STRONG. One of them came is a whole pineapple:
Then, of course, there was the much-anticipated Pu-Pu Platter. It deserves a moment of silence.
What would this world be without a little Pu-Pu? I'll tell you, it wouldn't be nearly as wonderful...or fried. The Pu-Pu platter was delectable; an array of fried/deep-fried meats, gathered in separate departments around the central flame. We heated each piece before eating it, which was completely unnecessary but definitely added to the experience. I should also mention that the waitstaff gave us exceptionally teethy smiles (at least coming from Manhattan it seemed that way) and were prompt and congenial throughout the evening.
If you feel a lack of Pu-Pu, Staten Island, or empty parking lots OR want ridiculously strong themed drinks...head to Jade Island.
Next on our list: Tortilleria Mexicana Los Hermanos. While Jade Island was tasty but mostly hilarious, Los Hermanos was 100% tasty. The fact that it was also an incredible bargain must have added to its perfection. Please, do yourself the favor and take the L train past Bedford Avenue to the Jefferson stop. You will not be disappointed!! It's right off of the stop, walk half a block and you'll see it.
It's a garage-style joint with all of the Mexican basics for cheap cheap cheap. There are 7 different filling options -- carnitas, enchilada, beefsteak, cecina (salted beef), chorizo, chicken and veggie -- any of which can be had in taco, taquito, torta or tostada form. When I asked the man at the counter which was his favorite, he said the chorizo and thank goodness I capitalized on his suggestion! In a thick, fresh, handmade tortilla, it was one of the most exquisite things I have ever tasted.
They prep everything from scratch and you can see them washing and cutting the vegetables through the glass wall in the "garage" section (seen in the background of the picture below). Freshness that your own eyes can vouch for.
Worth noting is that although they, sadly, do not have cervezas, they have the Mexican version of soda pop, called Jarritos (I got the Lemon and highly recommend it), and it serves as the perfect compliment to a thrifty and delicious meal.
Thank you, Anthony Bourdain. Thank you.
