Little Kirin NYC: East Village’s Hidden Gem for Asian-Inspired Flavors
Discover Little Kirin NYC in the East Village, serving Asian-inspired sandwiches and rice bowls packed with bold flavors and personal stories. Try their famous Pho Sandwich, Grandma’s Braised Pork, or the limited-time Uncle Mookie Lemongrass Pork Bowl for an unforgettable dining experience.
Little Kirin NYC, located in the heart of the East Village, is redefining the local food scene with its creative and heartfelt menu of Asian-inspired sandwiches and rice bowls. Co-owned by Brendan and Patrick, this cozy restaurant has quickly earned a reputation for its innovative dishes, warm ambiance, and authentic flavors.
Little Kirin East Village: A Story of Friendship and Flavor
The story of Little Kirin began with two lifelong friends, Brendan and Patrick, who shared a dream of opening a restaurant. Their journey started on a food truck in Florida, where Brendan first fell in love with cooking. “The first day I worked there, I thought, ‘Wow, I love this,’” Brendan recalls. Years later, during the pandemic, the friends reconnected and decided it was time to bring their dream to life.
Through pop-ups like their standout event at Greenpoint Terminal Market, Little Kirin built a loyal following. By 2021, they had officially opened their doors in the East Village, offering a menu that reflects their creativity and personal connections.
Pho Sandwich NYC and Other Must-Try Dishes at Little Kirin
Every dish at Little Kirin carries a piece of Brendan’s story, blending cherished memories with bold flavors to create unforgettable meals. “I try to latch onto a memory or someone important in my life and build from there,” Brendan shares. The result is a menu that’s not only delicious but deeply personal.
Must-Try Dishes at Little Kirin
Pho Sandwich: This standout dish has put Little Kirin on the map. Featuring slow-braised beef, onions, scallions, cilantro, Thai basil, thinly sliced jalapeño, and crispy shallots, all nestled in a crusty ciabatta roll, it’s served with a side of fragrant pho broth for dipping. “This is the dish that made people notice us,” Brendan says proudly. It’s a perfect balance of savory, aromatic, and fresh flavors.
Grandma’s Braised Pork Sandwich: A loving homage to Brendan’s grandmother, this sandwich combines tender five-spice braised pork, tangy pickled red onions, shaved cabbage, and creamy sesame aioli on ciabatta bread. “It’s inspired by my grandma’s cooking and a chef I admired early in my career. It’s my way of honoring them both,” Brendan shares.
Uncle Mookie Lemongrass Pork Bowl: A heartfelt tribute to Brendan’s late best friend, this limited-time dish features grilled spicy lemongrass pork, crisp romaine, pickled carrot and daikon, and a side of Little Kirin’s house-made fish sauce. “Every time someone orders it, they’re saying his name—even if they don’t know him,” Brendan says. The dish offers a perfect combination of smoky, tangy, and savory flavors.
Little Kirin’s menu is more than just food—it’s a celebration of Brendan’s heritage, memories, and the people who’ve influenced his life. Whether it’s a beloved family recipe or a tribute to a cherished friend, every bite tells a story.
Why Little Kirin Stands Out in NYC’s Food Scene
Opening a restaurant during a challenging time didn’t deter Brendan and Patrick—instead, it brought out their resourcefulness. “The pandemic reminded us how important it is to connect with people,” Brendan says. Social media became their bridge to the community, spreading the word about their unique and heartfelt offerings.
“Social media is such a powerful tool,” Brendan notes. “One video going viral changed everything for us. It confirmed we were doing something special.”
Today, Little Kirin is celebrated not just for its delicious menu but also for its strong community presence and dedication to quality.
The Heart Behind Little Kirin NYC
For Brendan, Little Kirin is more than a restaurant—it’s a celebration of his heritage and a tribute to his family’s sacrifices. As a first-generation American, he feels a deep sense of pride in his journey. “My mom’s incredible story of coming to America inspires me every day. Little Kirin is my way of showing that her journey was worth it.”
Even the restaurant’s name reflects Brendan’s love for his family. The kirin, a mythical creature in East Asian culture, represents his sister and her zodiac sign, the horse. “It felt right to name the restaurant after her. Little Kirin is all about family.”
Visit Little Kirin in NYC’s East Village
Whether you’re searching for the best Pho Sandwich in NYC or craving a unique take on Asian-inspired flavors, Little Kirin East Village is the place to be. Their menu is packed with bold flavors, heartfelt stories, and dishes you won’t find anywhere else.