Zen Noodle Cafe

31 Saint Marks Place @ 2nd Avenue, 212-533-6855

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Cost per person: $9
"YGWYPF" factor: 7/10 (you get what you pay for)

The west village is full of places waiting for you to discover, and this is just one of those. Unassuming, simple decor, with an entrance you'll definitely pass by unnoticed unless you are looking for it. We happened to land up here as Kenka, the hot, cheap Japanese place next door, does not open its doors until 6pm, something we missed checking before leaving for lunch.

In comparison to the other Japanese places I have been to - this is a little more homely, with a considerably higher percentage of Asians having their lunch (from what I could see). The menu is basic, the decor spartan. My dish, spicy noodle soup, was as spicy as I can handle - almost beating the Korean places. The same dish is also available in regular soup. My colleague was happy with his Bento Box options and quality. Prices are moderate, service is fast enough, foo dis good for a decent btu unassuming lunch or dinner.

The tea, however, was very much like water. Too bad.

Shall I go here again? Why not - it's in a very lively part of the town, and hits the spot.