A Ravenous Review of Wok to Walk

It’s a Sunday afternoon.  I’m tired, hungry, and to be honest…I’m hungover.  It is definitely time to do homework.  What will I do instead? Go on a search for some quick, cheap and greasy Asian food.  I have probably walked up and down University Place near campus hundreds of times, very rarely stopping for food.  I usually stick to the dining halls or Cafetasia but the other day I noticed a new restaurant called “Wok to Walk.”  Their sign outside claiming to serve a meal for $8.95 was quite enticing.

First of all, I would not suggest coming here with a large group.  The set-up is small, with a few benches for single eaters.  There is also only one cook so if you’re more than two or three, sit down and get comfortable because it takes about 5 minutes per order.

Ordering is a difficult feat only because there are so many options! You are given one choice of noodles, rice, soup, or veggie bowl: two choices from a plethora of vegetables, tofu or meat, and a choice of homemade sauces. I went with rice noodles, tofu, broccoli, edamame beans (extra 1.50) with their signature teriyaki sauce.  After 5 minutes, my meal was handed to me in an orange Chinese to-go carton with a set of chopsticks.  The box was heavy and full of food, but I was surprised to see no grease or oil coming out from the bottom like those typical Chinese food restaurants- to be clear, the grease and oil is delicious but hey, bathing suit season is around the corner so I’m trying to be somewhat healthy. Even though my two friends with me had yet to order, I decided it was time to dig in.  My food was piping hot and delicious. As opposed to the typical Lo Mein, this was much lighter. The broccoli and edamame beans were still crisp and the noodles were tender. I do wish there had been a little more sauce for some added flavor, but on the whole, this was a great meal under 10 dollars. (Don’t forget to add the 10 percent student discount).

My meal was great, but also pretty generic. If you’re looking for something with a little more kick, try using the Oriental Style peanut sauce or the Hot Sauce.  Still hungry? Try some dumplings! When you pay be sure to ask for the meal card; have 9 meals and get the 10^th one free! Hey, I’m in college, I’ll never turn down a discount.

So can Wok to Walk, talk the talk? I’d say so. Check out this great alternative to the usual greasy Chinese food right on University Place, just a few blocks from union square! And anyway, after all those health violations at the NYU dining halls, I think it’s time to branch out, don’t you? 

Bon Eating,

Ravenous Rel