It’s hard to pinpoint a precise reason for my spectacular experience at Bobwhite Lunch and Supper Counter in the East Village. My loyal fans will have noticed that I’ve been off the blog for a bit, abstaining from eating bread for a grueling three weeks. Today, an exception had to be made.

Instead of referring to this tiny establishment as its full name, I’ll simply call it Bob, because Bob is friendly and approachable. And because my buffalo chicken sandwich with a side of macaroni and cheese was like a warm, “welcome home” hug from a lifelong friend — Bob.

Presentation was unpretentiously perfect. This comfort food oasis served all its delicacies on southern-style floral ceramic plates. The sandwich consisted of 3-4 chicken tenders doused in house-made buffalo and ranch sauce. I scrapped the useless piece of lettuce it came with. The buns were buttered and toasted like the kitchen had the process down to a science. The second your fingertips press into the bun, its clear that the heavy concoction was going to stay organized and intact, despite the generous application of sauce. I had a little Zaxby’s Kickin’ Chicken Sandwich nostalgia on that initial bite.

The chicken was juicy and tender. The all-to-common mistake of over-frying or over-breading chicken was far from my train of thought. This quality meat was cooked appropriately. The portion size was okay, but similarly to my Anchored Inn review, I could’ve had another half of a sandwich.

But what I loved most about this sandwich was the bold simplicity of ingredients. Chicken. Buffalo sauce. Ranch. Bun. This sandwich had the confidence to say to any customer, “If you don’t like me, it’s your fault.” And it wasn’t wrong. Dynamite flavor with a Lousiana-style hot sauce on the table (with perhaps a hint of haberno) to help polish off that last bite.

Now onto one of the best side dishes I’ve had in New York — Bob’s Mac N’ Cheese. I had the pleasure of discussing this dish in greater detail with one of the friendly staff members. It’s apparently made in small batches with two sauces and three additional cheeses mixed in. By cooking in small batches, Bob’s is able to ensure consistent heating, and therefore taste, in every bite.

It’s thick, creamy consistency puts your mind in a trance, hunting every which way to pinpoint every flavor. Traces of red and black spices are mixed throughout. The crispy upper layer, exposed to a gentle broil, is the best part. That crunchy/creamy combo, on top of the buttery flavor filling your mouth, made me wave my fork around for no apparent reason. That good.

I’m very please to give Bob a 9 out of 10 for this incredible meal. The sandwich was phenomenal and the mac n’ cheese put it over the edge. I recommend Bobwhite Lunch and Supper Counter to all of the Buffington post faithful. Big fan Monty even ordered the same meal after seeing me enjoying it on Instagram!