Momofuku has opened a new restaurant, Kabawa, in the East Village, offering Caribbean-inspired dishes. Located where Momofuku Ko once was, Kabawa has quickly become popular, with reservations in high demand. According to Eater , diners can fork over $145 for a three-course meal under the helm of Paul Carmichael, a seasoned Momofuku chef well-versed in the company's culinary operations.
His menu features fiery dishes such as pepper shrimp with sorrel and scotch bonnet, along with cassava dumplings in Creole sauce. The meal is topped off with curry black bass and coconut cream cheese turnovers, drawing significant attention from diners. While Kabawa celebrates the Caribbean on a plate, Bar Kabawa, its attached counterpart, is an homage to the region's spirited drinks culture.
This newcomer daiquiri and rum bar hinges on creating an atmosphere that feels sunny, even when the New York weather outside begs to differ. "I just want people to feel good and feel like when they're in there, they're not in New York. They’re somewhere in the region.
It’s snowing outside, but it’s sunny inside,” Carmichael told ESSENCE . The bar itself unveiled an extensive drink menu featuring a variety of daiquiris and showcasing region-special rums—the Pineapple & Coconut daiquiri being among the fan favorites. But it's the Black Pudding, described by Carmichael, “It’s a taste adventure every time,” that best captures his culinary roots and highlights the diverse flavors of the Caribbea.