One of the many reasons I would love to live in NYC is the wildly diverse food scene.
Within a few days, there were a zillion options within a few blocks of my brother's apartment in the East Village.
First off, classic American hot dogs. Next, the Japanese noodles on St. Mark's Place.
And then there was my first Panang curry with chicken since Thailand. I was feeling lazy and requested delivery from Thai Terminal based on solid Yelp reviews.
The dish was spicy and delicious, the mere smell of which transported me back to Southeast Asia.
By this, I mean no offense to the only Thai restaurant which opened earlier this year in Medellin - you offer a necessary service to the entire Antioquian region of Colombia.
Then there was the brunch of huevos rancheros verdes at La Palapa Cocina Mexicana.
OK, I must admit this take on my favorite Mexican dish wasn't quite what I expected - a bit heavy on the green tomatillo sauce and cream, but it tasted good.
The restaurant's menu, interior design, and overall atmosphere felt authentic.
And for the final dinner of my visit, I went out with my brother, Kai, and his friend for Cambodian food at Kampuchea.
I ordered the Bwah Moun, a flavorful soup of jasmine rice, chicken broth, organic chicken breast, tiger shrimp, ginger, Thai chili, lime juice, sprouts, and herb.
My mouth is watering again just looking at the photo.
But what if I have a craving for beef tripe or goat at 2 AM?
NYC's diversity accounts for all foods, as I found when we ran across a food truck offering both these treats and more in the late-night hours.
That reminds me, I have an unfinished dare to eat a scorpion.
