photography by so does estella
These days, many businesses rely on creative marketing and fancy-pants branding for at least some portion of their success. When looking at condos a couple of weeks ago, the developer practically had me hook, line, and sinker just with the marketing materials. The information cards were done by letterpress! A stationery geeks dream. This practice is no different for eateries, so I'm putting my favorite (and new) haunts to the test.
Fare: Wins
Mooncake serves Chinese with a slight Vietnamese influence. Usually I shutter at the word diner but this place is a little different. They avoid fried foods and offer favorites like Wonton Soup with watercress, and Vegetarian Peashoot Dumplings. Need I say more?
Interior & Design (as shown above): Wins
1. Charming Storefront In Rich Rouge Color
2. Vintage Pendant Lamp
3. Framed Vintage Oil Painting
4. Adorable Arrangement Of Color-Grouped Supplies
Branding: Wins
Are we eating the brand or what's on the menu?
Both! Have to say, I dig the red Buddah logo designed to resemble a stamp and their overall illustrated branding.
While Mooncake is casual and quaint, the menu is also pretty extensive for a place of it's size. It's great for lunch near the office or a quick meet up with a friend. Five points for the fresh ginger and brown rice tea!
So, Mooncake wins!!
There are two more NYC locations. Hells Kitchen and Chelsea.
Have you been?