Eats of Stamford: Chinese Mirch

Some places in this world hold special meaning to people for spiritual or religious reasons; Machu Picchu, for example, or the Vatican, or Mecca, or the "vortices" of Sedona, Arizona. In my case, it's 35 Atlantic Street. I loved Galangal when it was there, and now that I've experienced Chinese Mirch, I am inextricably drawn back to that same place time and time again.

Yes, I know that Stamford Notes has already written about CM (and her post is immortalized on their wall!), but I wanted to share my thoughts anyway.

The space is very cool - it's comfortable and interesting without being too hip (yes, I mean you, g/r/a/n/d) or too sterile (like Duo). I like the zig-zag middle section because you can put an arm up and lean on the side. However, I do have to admit that I miss Galangal's giant elephants. I hope they've found a new home in the new Long Island restaurant.

My friend and I ordered the rock shrimp appetizer, which was good but not earth-shattering. My friend then had the Five Spice Roast Duck and enjoyed it, though he was sweating halfway through (he's a lightweight when it comes to hot food). As for me, I asked the waiter which was the hottest dish on menu, and he recommended the Tellicherry Pepper Chicken. Tellicherries are black peppers from the coast of India with a strong peppery taste that makes them much sought-after by chefs. This dish made amazing use of the pepper as a complement to the spice. It was an incredible meal and I highly recommend it -- but only if you can take the heat!

My only criticism of Chinese Mirch -- and it's very, very minor -- is that rice is extra. Come on, guys. Rice should be included with the meal.

I'll let it slide, though, because I can't get enough of their mints!


Heck, I ordered lunch twice the week after I first ate there!

Also, they get big points for hosting the happy hour fundraiser organized by Stamford Notes to benefit the Food Bank of Lower Fairfield County. We all hope you can make it on September 29th!