OM (Old Mates Pub) — Review by Jack's Dining Room
New York, United States — Australian/Pub
OM serves what the reviewer considers the second-best chicken sandwich in America, behind only Lake Coupe in LA. The sandwich features Australian-style preparation with a 24-hour buttermilk curry marinade, housemade chili honey, and a perfectly crafted seeded brioche bun that holds up to the generous, meaty sandwich.
What was great: Exceptional chicken sandwich with 24-hour buttermilk curry marinade, housemade chili honey, and custom-made seeded brioche bun. The chicken is incredibly crunchy and juicy despite using breast meat. Pickles provide great balance to the fat and spice.
What could improve: Nothing mentioned
The Dishes
The star of the show is OM's signature chicken sandwich, which left a lasting impression on the reviewer. The chicken breast is marinated for 24 hours in a buttermilk curry sauce, a technique that delivers exceptional flavor and moisture despite using the leaner breast meat rather than thighs. The sandwich is topped with housemade chili honey that adds a perfect sweet and spicy component. What sets this sandwich apart is the custom-made seeded brioche bun, which is light and structurally sound enough to hold up to what the reviewer describes as a generously girthy sandwich without falling apart or becoming soggy.
The Experience
The kitchen is run by an 'epic Australian dude' who clearly knows his craft. The casual pub atmosphere of OM seems to be the perfect setting for this elevated sandwich experience, creating an approachable yet quality dining environment.
Value & Pricing
Pricing information was not mentioned in the review, though the quality and preparation suggest premium pricing for a sandwich establishment.
Notable Moments
The chicken itself is so crunchy and so juicy. But they use chicken breast, not thigh. This brioche seeded bun is like perfect. Super light. Holds the sandwich well. Absorbs the juices.
The reviewer was genuinely shocked that the chicken breast could be both crunchy and juicy, noting that the pickles cut through the fat and spice perfectly.
The Verdict
OM's chicken sandwich ranks as the reviewer's second-favorite in America, just behind Lake Coupe in LA. The combination of Australian-inspired preparation, quality ingredients, and impeccable execution makes this a must-try for chicken sandwich enthusiasts in New York. The sandwich is undeniably large and messy to eat, but the flavors and textures justify every bite. This restaurant is best for anyone seeking an exceptional, elevated chicken sandwich experience in NYC.