When you consider the fact that the owner is an artist-turned-chef, it’s no revelation that this long and slender East Village incomer is so beautifully conceived. Its décor boasts a modern aesthetic, cleverly incorporating the use of raw materials like exposed bulbs and wooden slats. That fused with a bit of great taste makes this one of the most sleek and affable spots downtown.

Suitably baptized, this “slurp shop” is a noteworthy destination for noodles—specifically mifen—which originally hail from Southwest China. Heartier appetites, though, will find much to savor in skewered cumin beef; or smoked pork and tofu slivers sautéed with garlic and scallions. Everyone should get the house-made salted chili oil to add a dose of flavor and spice.