Discover New York’s Hottest New Restaurant: The Perfect Prelude to an Unforgettable Dining Experience!

At Ha’s Snack Bar, the dishes are exciting. I tried tamarind-butter snails that burst with flavor and a bread pudding that was perfection. I almost wanted to give the chefs a high five, much like how Paul Hollywood does on “The Great British Bake-Off.”

Usually considered a simple dish, escargots here are anything but dull. The tamarind adds a zesty kick that brings out the natural flavor of the snails. And that bread pudding? The edges were perfectly crispy, while the inside was soft, paired with creamy coconut ice cream. It was sweet but not overwhelming.

Ha’s Snack Bar in the Lower East Side blends Vietnamese and French influences. The menu changes based on what chefs Sadie Mae Burns-Ha and Anthony Ha feel like cooking. Their approach is fresh and innovative, showcasing their unique skills.

The couple has gained a strong following since launching their roaming pop-up, Ha’s Đặc Biệt, back in 2019. The term “Đặc Biệt” means “house special” in Vietnamese. Since opening Ha’s Snack Bar in December, it has been busy, relying mostly on word-of-mouth, with just a simple Instagram post to announce its arrival. The cozy spot feels like a charming French bistro, even without a full kitchen; they have portable cooktops, a rice cooker, a small fridge, and a Wawa oven.

Initially, Ms. Burns-Ha and Mr. Ha were hesitant to chat for this review, considering the Snack Bar a trial run. They plan to transform it into a more casual venue offering “wine bar fare” like oysters and pâté as they prepare to open a larger, more ambitious restaurant nearby.