Gourmet Casual: Num Pang
One of the best sandwich shops in New York City, Num Pang specializes in salivating gourmet Cambodian sandwiches. With a very simple menu, the quick service restaurant group with six locations in the city (more coming) has perfected the balance of flavors diners want in the ideal sandwich. Their freshly made toasted semolina flour baguette is light yet sturdy and serves as the best base for the assortment of flavor-packed asian toppings.
The founders Ben Daitz and Ratha Chaupoly met in university 1994 and years later, serendipitously bumped into each other in NYC six years later. Surprisingly, they had both ended up in the hospitality industry. That is when they realized a unique business opportunity. Ratha’s childhood flavors from Cambodia combined with Ben’s culinary finesse has made Num Pang the success it is today. Check out their recent cookbook featuring delicious recipes from their shops here.
Below are only some of our favorite dishes at Num Pang, because we love everything there.
Peppercorn Catfish Sandwich
The flaky, moist and crunchy blackened catfish creates a unique taste and texture that is destined on that freshly made bread. The bright and airy fish filet along with the crispiness from the pickled vegetables and freshness from the cilantro creates is the finest sandwich combination. Great for those looking for a lighter option.
Coconut Tiger Shrimp Rice Bowl
This dish has everything you would ever want in a bowl. It consists of rice (a choice of brown, jasmine, or super-grains), big crunchy coconut shrimp, grilled vegetables and topped with chili yogurt and chive lime vinaigrette. The contrasting flavors of sweet, sour, savory, crunchy, and creamy tastes like pure happiness.
Five-Spice Glazed Pork Belly
This is a no brainer for meat lovers. The melt-in-your-mouth luscious pork belly has a caramelized exterior that, when accompanied with fresh vegetables makes for most satisfying sandwich for any occasion. It is even more delicious to eat on a nice spring day outside in the sunshine.
Blood Orange Juice
All of Num Pang’s house made juices are made with natural ingredients. The blood orange juice in particular is tart yet sweet and goes with whatever dish you choose. It is basically a regular lemonade with a spicy satiating kick!
Find out more on their website: http://www.numpangnyc.com/
Check out their six locations in New York City, including NoMad, Grand Central, Union Square, Chelsea Market, Battery Park City, and FiDi South.
*Dishes recommended by our sandwich-loving crew of Design Directors: Anthony Loven, BJ Scott, and Tom Holland.
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