I’ve lived in NYC my entire life, but I only first heard about 188 Bakery Cuchifritos in 2019 from Anthony Bourdain of all people. He made a visit on “Parts Unknown,” and I immediately knew I had to make a pilgrimage. Not to say that it would be out of the ordinary to hear about […]
Chef Jose Luis Flores has every single reason to be proud of what he’s brought to Williamsburg’s restaurant scene. The food at De Mole is some of the best Mexican in NYC, period. It’s also one of the best first date spots in the city (especially if you want to keep it somewhat casual), with […]
For Caribbean expats, Lolo’s Seafood Shack will bring you back home. Owner Leticia Skai Young and her husband bring the coast of St. Martin to the streets of Harlem with a colorful shopfront that stands out from the urban landscape. Fresh and spicy seafood, from crispy shrimp in a ghost pepper glaze to crab cakes […]
For Ethiopians in NYC, Abyssinia will transport you back home. The restaurant feels built from living love for the food, the spaces, and the people of Ethiopia and Eritrea. Think platters of injera, lamb awaze tibs, and gomey served up on white tablecloths that feel homey, not fancy. Throughout the menu you’ll find robust, spicy […]
Founded by a school librarian who realized her students needed more spaces to express themselves, Word Up Cafe invites event-planners looking to feed both stomach and spirit. With Afrocentric artwork and bohemian purple and yellow walls, the cafe curates a nonconformist vibe through and through. Entrees feature health conscious cuisine such as the black bean […]
Come alive with a cup of coffee and a side of culture at Lips Cafe, a creative, artsy and Caribbean coffee shop and bar built to satisfy all five senses. Walking in, you’re met with juicy pop art, chill music, and the aroma of freshly roasted specialty blends and designer drinks. Beyond the sips, Lips […]
Silvia’s has been serving soul food to rival grandma’s cooking since 1962. Black Southern values are at the heart of everything Silvia’s does, from the indulgent menu, to the intimate, family-style service. White tablecloths outfit a charming dining room that’ll make you want to say grace before you eat. When you’re ready to dine, expect […]
Serving up some straight-up, slammin’, classic Dominican dishes that I could not recommend enough, this spot’s amazing food is only matched by their awesome staff (family-owned and almost entirely family run). I just keep coming back, and at this point, I absolutely intend to taste the entire menu. First and foremost, you MUST have their […]
B Squared masterfully combines an indulgent seafood menu with a speakeasy-like vibe, all accented by a hint of celebrity. The venture is the brainchild of restaurateur Adriane Ferguson and HGTV celebrity designer Mikel Welch. It’s rapidly become known for elevated seafood served with a touch of soul. With satisfying flavors and dishes presented with panache, […]
The Burger House is NOT what it sounds like. Disguised as a humble takeout restaurant, it’s really a dope, Black-owned, speakeasy. The staff are not just friendly, but ACTUALLY funny, and yeah, there’s still great food. We loved the Lobster Mac that (for once) comes with actual chunks of fresh lobster. There’s also a pretty […]
We think vegan Ethiopian chic when it comes to this eatery as its beautifully presented cuisine and habesha decor are set in a contemporary ambience with brick walls and a sleek wooden bar. Known for live performances and trendy presentation, this eatery pulls quite the multicultural crowd. Cuisine boasts plant-based Ethiopian dishes with options such […]
When the alarm clock just isn’t enough, BKLYN Blend provides coffee in an environment that is both soothing and welcoming. Brick walls and chic industrial decor surround patrons as they’re served organic and toxin-free salads, shakes, and brewed coffee in a cafe built from scratch with the intent of providing a healthy lifestyle to low […]
Peak Hudson Yards may be new to the City’s dining scene, but it already feels like a staple. Perched on the top floor of Hudson Yards’ tallest skyscraper, Peak combines vaulted ceilings and a bright, airy ambiance with an awe-inspiring view of New York from 1,300 feet above the sidewalks. That unbelievable panorama of buzzing […]
Coexist Gaming Arcade is a reclaimed townhouse nestled between Bushwick and Ridgewood serving as a tech fueled paradise part clubhouse part arcade. Play whatever’s on that night, a selection from an array of nostalgic and trending games or enjoy open mic nights with live music as Grammy nominated co-founder Letta Jaye is there to make […]
A renowned eatery for authentic Italian pizza, Juliana’s is perched next to the Brooklyn Bridge, making its mark as a city cultural point of interest. Here is where you’ll experience that quintessential New York ethos with photos of Frank Sinatra lining the wall, a coal-fire warming the kitchen, and an atmosphere laden with coziness, romance, and […]
Combining creamy coffee and soothing teas with a calendar of events for the community, Boogie Down Grind is a space that nourishes your soul along with your body. A cornerstone of Hunts Point, the cafe is grounded in a love for the Bronx and its people. Order cafe favorites with a hip hop twist (Grand […]
Bachata playing in a beer garden is an unlikely pairing, which is why this snug yet lively Dominican kitchen hits the spot for us. A rare find uptown, its exposed brick, colorful plating, and tropical murals create the perfect visuals for a reggaeton and bachata filled chillout spot in East Harlem. Santiago’s menu features familiar […]
En Ayiti, sa ki pa touye ou, li angrese ou! “In Haiti, what doesn’t kill you, makes you fat!” Zanmi serves authentic Haitian cuisine served with soulful, relaxed vibes. The French Caribbean restaurant will remind Haitians of their families’ cooking, but transported to a contemporary space adorned with bright yellow walls, blue pillows, and eclectic […]
Helmed by the Yamasaki family, Santo Brúklin has easily become Brooklyn’s beloved Brazilian restaurant with a Pinterest worthy setting– vine-covered railings, bohemian lights strung across the ceiling, whitewashed brick, and a heated backyard have this eatery abuzz for brunch and dinner. The menu offers an array well-presented national dishes with hits such as the Hell […]
Dressing up to grab a smoothie? You don’t have to, but the decor of this chic smoothie and coffee destination will make you want to be photo ready. Located a block away from Prospect Park between Flatbush and Lincoln sits the pink-painted, Black-owned Hibiscus Brew. Relatively new to the area, Hibiscus is quickly making a […]
Electric, trendy, and hip, Urban Vegan delivers a decidedly cool take on vegan cuisine. Graffiti-adorned walls and prints of icons like Bob Marley, Jimi Hendrix, and Muhammed Ali bolster the eatery’s celebration of veggie-forward food’s funkier side. The menu is an all veganized, ethnic mashup of sorts—try the korean BBQ wings, jackfruit fajita quesadilla, or […]
A relaxed vegan venture in Brooklyn’s Little Caribbean, Aunts et Uncles is a chic combination of bar, cafe, and lifestyle shop. The menu highlights natural Caribbean flavors as well as soulful seasonings, with something to remind just about everyone of home. Try the trademark “lobster” roll (made from heart of palm and sweet potato oatmeal), […]
This Latinx owned gastropub serves as a cool hangout spot for West Midwood locals. Known for great vibes and American-Latin comfort food, our favorite plates include their crispy cauliflower, mango habanero wings, and lobster rolls. And of course, they also whip up an eclectic assortment of cocktails, bringing top-shelf spirits to life with Mexican ingredients […]
A hidden gem in the Chelsea/Hudson Yards area, this Mexican restaurant channels their namesake Frida Kahlo through their elegant and surrealist decor. The exposed brick, jade green furniture, touches of neon lighting, and Kahlo influences in the right places transport you to a relaxed, soothing ambience you didn’t know you needed. Pairing nicely with the […]
Take hip-hop, combine soul food with the best of Puerto Rican cuisine, and you have Beatstro. Known as the “Hip-Hop Restaurant,” Beatstro is bringing great food and even better vibes to the Bronx. Founded by Bronx natives, the space celebrates Mott Haven’s cultural roots, paying homage to the block parties of the 70s and 80s. […]
For experienced sushi eaters looking for a new experience, we loveeee Moko NYC. Starting at just $65 for a fifteen-course meal, the restaurant serves a stripped-down selection of nigiri, along with a few simple appetizers and desserts. You won’t find any souped-up rolls here; just beautiful, fresh seafood on flavorful rice. The fish is flown […]
Seis Vecinos made me do something I thought I’d never do: eat a whole fish, face and all. And it was absolutely delicious. On previous trips to this Central American and Mexican restaurant, I’ve tasted Baleadas (a traditional Honduran handmade flour tortilla stuffed with mashed refried beans, crema, and crumbled cheese with your choice of […]
A cozy spot complimented by ambient lighting and colorful urban wall art, there’s always a vibe at the Bronx Public. Open for lunch and dinner, and (bottomless) brunch on the weekends, this restaurant serves a variety of delicious American comfort foods, including burgers, wings, and macaroni & cheese to name a few. Food can be […]
I’ve been following Next Stop Vegan for years and have always been impressed with their dedication to bringing vegan options to the Bronx and their awareness of meat’s impact on the environment. I’ve sampled some of their food in the past (specifically their Vegan Chimi Burger) and I was excited to head over to their […]
Buvette is for the bougie black Francophile. More people of the diaspora dine here than you’d think. It’s cozy, provides a quality Franco-American dining experience, and won’t break the bank. And the waitstaff is just as lovely as the interior. Set in West Village, it’s brick wall and dainty bistro chairs give Buvette a charming […]
An explosion of authentic cultural expression set in a snug restaurant, we’re really feeling this Senegalese-French vibe. From the West-African ancestral deco to the cozy wooden bar to the Afrobeat playing in the background, the aura is a win. The menu boasts traditional and Senegalese fusion cuisine as well as American and French favorites — […]
“Eat Well, Eat Clean, Eat Greedi” — is a fitting slogan for this Bed Stuy vegan eatery where soul food is re-birthed. With exposed brick walls and red tables that set a hip and casual atmosphere, this is the spot for those craving a non-carnivorous meal made with compassion and care. The aura is friendly—we […]
Owner Josh Montalvo opened up his Colombian restaurant in the Morris Park section of the Bronx with a few things in mind. One of the most important ones was to offer vegan options while not sacrificing any Colombian flavors. What I love about the BX food scene is that the local spots – the ones […]
FIELDTRIP Harlem is an ode to an under-appreciated global staple: rice. Chef JJ Johnson travelled the world collecting recipes and spices, and then returned to NYC to create the restaurant we know (and love) today. Dishes are inspired by JJ’s journeys through Africa, Asia, and America. The spot is casual and straightforward—a Chipotle-style quick order […]
I’ve never waited an hour for food (I start protesting at 45mins). Add in that this particular wait happened in the early afternoon, on a weekday, on White Plains Road in the Bronx…well, if someone had told me what I was about to go through, I would have thought they were lying. But now I […]
Nomad’s Gaonnuri offers an upscale rendition of Korean BBQ in an extraordinarily designed penthouse location. Set atop the 39th floor of a tower in Herald Square, the restaurant glows a romantic blue with panoramic views of the city catering to an upbeat and sophisticated crowd but still retains a chill and welcoming atmosphere due to […]
Vibrant, well-seasoned food with convenient outdoor dining, Chavela’s brings us both classic and clever Nu Mexican cuisine in Crown Heights, Brooklyn. It’s plush booth seating, colorful ceramic plating, ethnic sculpture, and talavera tiled bar invite patrons into an original experience from entry to exit. As for their food, options such as shrimp tacos, chips and […]
Spudz is Brooklyn’s only french fry shop featuring classic and specialty twists in their namesake fries. The usual menu hosts plain and battered shrimp recipes, but may test you with El Frito Loco (jalapeno cheese, corn, and black bean sauce), The Brunch (waffle fries, chicken tenders, and honey syrup), Jamaican jerk flavored fries, and mango […]
Claw Daddy’s is the place to go if you’re missing good old seafood boils in Houston or NOLA. It’s cool concrete floors and wooden tables exude a laid back feel while serving patrons Southern comfort and fresh seafood—a freshness hard to come by in Manhattan. Crawfish mac topped with ritz crackers, spicy crab legs, and […]
Encapsulating the Lower East Side’s demographic eclecticism in a single restaurant/bar, the Sons of Essex issa vibe. The contemporary casual spot is perfect for those who like their food lively. An ode to the LES of the 1980s and early 90s, there’s no stuffiness here, just real New Yorkers who want to have a good […]
A cozy lounge with a living room feel, Ode to Babel is beautiful courtesy of its relaxed vibe and focus on celebrating collective identity. Cafe and co-working space by day, lounge by night, the eatery is built to accommodate the needs of its patrons. On a Saturday night, dim lights and brick walls keep the […]
Laying its Latin roots deep in Queens, The Cuban brings such a tasty slice of Cuba to the district. Inside its flamboyant walls holds an undeniably pulsing atmosphere, energetic music, and vibrant art that set the mood for an exciting culinary experience. The starters took us straight to the island- one bite of the Tostones […]
There’s something about Bua Thai Ramen we just can’t get enough of! Rich spices that tickle the lips, aromatic scents, the sharp flavors that rest on the tongue long after; Bua Thai on the Upper East Side works feverishly to entice all our human senses. The menu is epic but to help narrow down your […]
Cantina 33 dishes out brunch, Peruvian style! Queens is famously known for its eclectic cultural fusions, cuisines, and food under its belt, and this spot in Ridgewood adds yet another notch. The menu is thoughtfully curated with modern twists on classic Peruvian eats. The Lomo Saltado and Ceviche Mixto were some of the traditional dishes […]
Gazab manages to dish a fabulous taste of India out of its tiny but formidable walls here in New York. Where it may fall short in physical space, it’s highly compensated by its impressive menu of unique South Asian eats that hit a special spot, coupled with that warm Indian hospitality that makes you feel […]
Jamaica meets Britain mashup but set in New York, The Edge’s menu boasts a cohesion of Jamaican specialties such as ackee & saltfish, codfish fritters, and jerk salmon as well as British specialities such as the savory pie of the day, avocado smash, and fish and chips. We also love the ode to New York […]
A fairly new and very cozy authentic Naija spot, Hills’ has the fresh and savory food that reminds many Nigerians of home serving us classics like jollof, pounded yam, and their savory chicken pepper soup. Its dining area is homey and snug— a simple cafe area that seats about 10-12 patrons at a time, but […]
This glamorous and exquisitely pink paradise invites cosmopolitan women to embrace their inner girly girl. Decked out with floral accents and marble tabletops, the vibe is flirty, yet sophisticated. In an era where social media fame can quickly alter the spirit of a spot, While We Were Young NYC generates hype while retaining its original […]
Lido is Italian food with soul, and those who taste it, know it. Flooded with millennial energy and situated on Harlem’s see-and-be-seen Frederick Douglas Blvd strip, the eatery serves up delicious Italian-American comfort food, bottomless drinks, and a buzzing ambiance. A lower Harlem staple, Lido is loved for their highly-praised bubbly brunch menu, featuring buttermilk […]
On the edge of the Lower East Side, sits the celebrity-frequented, two-level Las’ Lap, a Caribbean infused cocktail bar where you’ll feel like you’re in on a best-kept secret. The trendy spot draws a young, eclectic crowd of bohemian and urban professional patrons who come for good drinks and small bites like the jerk chicken […]
Empanada Mama is another Hell’s Kitchen gem, this time bringing the heart of Latin America to a cozy new venue. Wood flooring, neon lighting, and Columbian murals set the tone, and the sounds of reggaeton, bachata, salsa, and reggae welcome everyone with a penchant for Latin American cuisine. Appropriately, the empanadas are the plat du […]
As featured on Netflix’s She Did That, The Crabby Shack is owned by two African- American women who are your crab connoisseurs. Their claim to crab is reflected in the fare which boasts flavorful and fresh crab, clobster, lobster rolls, and a variety of seafood options, homemade sauces, sides, and drinks. As though someone brought […]
Everyone on the UPW loves Thai Market, an immersive and buzzing Thai restaurant perfect for anything from date night to takeout. Our Thai contributors confirm that the cuisine reminds them of grandma’s kitchen. With authentic specials including Kow Pad Poo (crab fried rice) and Tom Yum Goong (hot and sour shrimp soup), as well as […]
A West Indian gem, Dunns River has reminded so many of their families’ cooking, but presented in a cool and inviting atmosphere with vintage photos of the reggae greats lining the walls and an open, white-countertopped bar. “Good foods, good friends, good reggae” is a fitting slogan for this eatery which hosts soulful reggae concerts […]
Do happy hour the right way at Harlem Nights, a cozy neighborhood bar featuring live music and a relaxed lounge atmosphere. This spot is perfect for a first date and has a menu full of fairly priced handcrafted cocktails and small bites including their bomb chicken wings. The drinkery features happy hour specials on weekdays […]
Filé is bringing true, authentic New Orleans flavor to downtown NYC. Chef & Owner Eric McCree isn’t one to stay in the kitchen. At the bar, he’ll strike up a conversation while making bespoke gumbo to your exact specifications, right in front of you. If it’s your first time, definitely make that happen, but expect […]
Jacob Restaurant is a Harlem staple for buffet-style Southern and Caribbean cuisine. The no-frills restaurant sells fresh and flavorful entrees by the pound (literally). With 35-40 trays of food at your fingertips you’ll be spoiled for choice, but count on fried and jerk chicken, oxtails, collard greens, fried rice, ribs, and mac n cheese. The […]
Let’s start the conversation at Agaveria—a hubspot for artisanal Mexican spirits, centered around Agave. And you certainly feel the spirit of this spot from it’s saltillo tiled floors to the arched window, tastefully transporting you to Mexico. La Diagonal is a sultry, upscale Nu Mexican restaurant known for traditional dishes as well as exploratory entrees […]
2 Chix brings a super adorable and girly atmosphere to the brunch scene. They’ve been doing catering and pop-ups for years before setting up a brick and mortar location, so the restaurant combines a fresh attitude with serious culinary expertise. I’ve been by with the girls, and we loved the bake & salt fish sliders, […]
Omar’s is an exciting spot steeped in a vibrant love for the Caribbean. Guests are saturated with a taste that places heritage at the fore with lush afro-artworks from portraiture to subtler details like their underlying zinc paneling. Pastel shuttered windows frame landscapes “seen” through walls of exposed brick, as if windowed in a home […]
For those looking for a discreet and cozy meal, go to Peaches Grand, a more elevated extension of Brooklyn’s beloved fried chicken institution, Peaches Hothouse. Situated on Grand Avenue, we love this spot for calm weeknights and good conversations against brick walls, open windows to look out at Brooklyn, and candlelights. The windows add a […]
Since 2003 Cuba has held onto Old Havana in the heart of Greenwich Village. The menu features Cuban, Latin, and Spanish dishes set in a comforting atmosphere that mimics a Cuban terrace with its greenery, brick, and live music. With classics such as paella and empanadas served alongside modern twists such as the passion fruit […]
Since the 90s, this locally owned independent Ethiopian restaurant has been one of New York’s staples for slowly simmered wetts and rich, butternut squash stew that keep folks coming back for more. Ghenet translates to “Highest Unknown Paradise” and lives up to its name as its flavorful aletcha dishes remain somewhat of a mystery to […]
Just a few blocks from the Nostrand Ave 3 and 4 trains, Meme’s Healthy Nibbles is a destination for tasty Black-owned artisanal food. Though the cafe space is unassuming, it is comfortably casual and quaint with a menu personalized with black empowerment messaging and affirmations. Try the I Am Strong Shake or the I am […]
Located in the heart of Rosedale, Panash is a great spot for locals looking for a Manhattan-chic vibe without foraging all the way to the city. This neighborhood treasure curates a unique dining experience with its creative vision of merging Mediterranean, Moroccan, Caribbean, and soul food. And with a light-filled bar, high white ceilings, and […]
Your grandma’s Southern comfort food outside of Harlem in a neighborhood where it is needed, Peaches HotHouse is your destination for a piece of the South in Brooklyn. No-frills and outfitted with light wood tones, Peaches creates a neo-country, snug ambience that allow patrons to tuck themselves away into the classics—Hothouse fried chicken, crispy shrimp, cornmeal […]
Ponty Bistro is where French and West African cuisine come together in Harlem. A myriad of mussels are on the menu, taste them cooked in African spices if you can stand the heat or served in white wine if you’re in the mood for a classic plate. Cultural staples include poisson yassa, a Senegalese style grilled […]
An eclectic French-American restaurant with unique African decor, Yatenga is proving that there’s beauty in simplicity (and that French doesn’t have to be posh). The menu highlights classic entrees done right. For brunch, try the croque monsieur, fluffy French toast, and pancakes. At dinner, we loved the seafood pasta and steak au poivre. The decor […]
An authentic steakhouse with the soul and culture of Harlem, Ricardo’s is perfect for upscale casual dining. Exposed brick lined with artwork from local Harlem artists, combined with classic r&b tunes allow for a great ambiance on a date night or a sit down with close friends and family. The menu features bonafide steakhouse classics […]
This black-owned restaurant feels like its name, a rustic laidback tavern and a chill spot for a group brunch or dinner for two. Warm wood benches and brick walls curate coziness while delicious American fare, good music, and board games keep the mood light. Here, you’ll find refuge in classic comfort foods– hot crab cakes, […]
Mom’s Kitchen & Bar is hands down one of Astoria’s best breakfast spots. Set in a modern and simple atmosphere, the eatery feels like a familiar diner that you’ve seen in every New York City movie. But open a menu, and you’ll find yourself pleasantly surprised by all of the fresh spins on diner classics…and […]
Located in the Financial District, Brooklyn Chop House is a star-studded steakhouse attracting celebs such as Cardi B, Jamie Foxx, Busta Rhymes, and Wendy Williams— some of whom have voiced their high regards for the eatery. Tastefully combining modern American cuisine with Chinese cooking, the menu touts idiosyncratic options (because really, the odds of finding […]
The Boil boasts three locations, but our favorite is in NoHo, tucked between Smith and Mercer on buzzing Waverly street. Southern transplants in NYC will find a taste of home, while native New Yorkers get to sample Louisiana seafood staples once out of reach in the North. The Boil fully embraces Low Country tradition, right […]
Vinateria sits on the corner of 119th street, one of the many restaurants studding Frederick Douglas Boulevard. The Black-owned eatery stands out by curating a calm and intimate ambiance, in contrast to the strip’s usually high-energy vibe. Inside the romantically lit interior, you’ll find what we call “a high class family restaurant”—both stylish and welcoming. […]
SoCo brings Southern flavor to Brooklyn’s buzzing Clinton Hill neighborhood. Southern, Cajun and Creole inspired fusions like chicken and red velvet waffles, jalapeno n’ cheddar cornbread, and creole gumbo are unapologetically decadent, indisputably delicious– and, if you keep coming back, might just get you thicc. There’s just as much creativity behind the extensive cocktail menu, […]
If you’re looking for affordable vegan cuisine, you have to try Veggie Castle. The casual vegan eatery serves entrees inspired by Caribbean flavors in generous portions. Lauded as a must-visit for both meat eaters and die-hard vegans, the eatery frees you from having to choose between lifestyle improvement and culinary tradition. Standout dishes like rice […]
More than just vegan food, this plant-based refuge shows locals that soul food is an ever-evolving concept with endless possibilities. This black-owned eatery artfully convinces anyone unsure about eating vegan food as co-owner Brenda Beener brings her NOLA bayou roots to give us a vegan soul food cuisine that we never knew could exist. With […]
You might know Negril Village, a downtown hub for Jamaican cuisine and cocktails. Now, visit Negril BK, where the same team has crafted a more free-spirited Caribbean restaurant and bar. The menu moves away from Jamaica to pay tribute to the other islands, with Trinidadian-accented dishes like Bake and Shark and Red Curry Bahamian shrimp […]
If you’re craving breakfast for dinner, you can’t go wrong by heading to Amy Ruth’s. Set in an open and casual food hall where Harlem icons smize on the murals, this eatery serves Southern cuisine that fills the belly and soothes the soul. Though the chicken and waffles are perfection, we also recommend substituting in […]
The Horny Ram is good for a low-key yet risqué vibe. Located in midtown Manhattan, it is a great place to go if you’re looking to eat tasty American cuisine—the double smash burger, m&m pancakes, brussel sprouts with toasted almonds—are essentially, entrees that amuse as much as they fill. Known for its hip and fun […]
If you love ramen, Caribbean food, or just a great vibe, Roc N Ramen is a can’t miss. Here, a collision between authentic Japanese ramen and Caribbean cuisine inspires noodle soups topped with BBQ chicken or curried oxtail. If spice is your thing, don’t miss the jerk chicken or shrimp, which both pack a serious […]
Nuyorican brings living history and unmatched soul to the slam poetry scene. A low-key spot on the Lower East Side, it’s less a cafe than an institution. A diverse urban crowd fills the room each night, bringing poetic passion born of love and pain. From the dim lighting to the weighty words spoken in the […]
An inviting, quaint Italian spot off Lenox Avenue, Babbalucci is the perfect destination for a sultry date night, or just for unwinding on your own. Soft music and gentle lighting create a cozy atmosphere you’ll want to sink into. The menu is a mix of traditional Italian classics and New York flavors. Unexpected options like […]
Verde on Smith serves up hearty cuisine in a warm, welcoming space reminiscent of a traditional Italian kitchen. Along with dinner classics like shrimp fettuccine alfredo, spaghetti carbonara, and chicken parmigiana, Verde on Smith boasts bottomless brunch every day of the week. That, of course, means a great mimosa, but you’ll also have the option […]
This Hell’s Kitchen Caribbean eatery is an escape to an island paradise if you can’t book that flight. The warm oranges and tropical blues alongside vibrant wall murals are the splash of Caribbean that we didn’t know we needed. The menu boasts a mashup of West Indian cuisine— with beautifully served dishes from Dominica, Antigua, […]
Visit the basement of the iconic B2 restaurant and you’ll find one of Harlem’s best kept secrets– Room 623. A reservation-only, sultry bar with live jazz music, Room 623 caters to old souls, jazz aficionados, and newcomers. The speakeasy began as a collaboration between restaurateur Adriane Ferguson and jazz artist Marcus Goldhaber, who aimed to […]
“If you can’t travel to the motherland, Joloff Restaurant is the next best thing” – Essence Magazine. And we agree. Joloff Restaurant in Bedford-Stuyvesant is truly a taste of Senagalese food and tradition. The playful textile patterns on the tables and contemporary African sculpture and prints immerse patrons in the heart of West African art. […]
Since soda bars were a thing and trendy young people were called “boppers,” Junior’s has been a family friendly destination for comfortable eating. The original Brooklyn site dates back to 1950, where they still reign through the class of their cheesecakes. Junior’s locations offer a competitive diner experience with one of the richest history’s the […]
For ramen lovers who happen to be in the Chelsea area, Jun-Men offers an excellent contemporary menu serving the traditional bowls of noodles from the spicy pork bone to the uni mazemen (sea urchin ramen) that New Yorker’s have come to love. Sit at the counter and watch the cooks do their thing or chat […]
Serving up a litany of Caribbean dishes packed with flavor such as plantain chips with guacamole, jerk chicken & fish tacos, Imani is a spot you have to visit whenever you’re in Fort Greene, Brooklyn, or live in the borough. Executive Chef and part owner Chef Banta, has done an amazing job curating a menu […]
Miss Lily’s vibrancy and style has made it the place in the East Village for Jamaican-American fusion and Caribbean brunch. The menu is more Jamaican-accented than traditional, with twists on classics like cod fish fritters with curry sauce, jerk brisket, jerk ramen, and jumbo pepper shrimp. Vibrant rastafari colored walls, decorated boombox speakers, yaadie miscellanea, […]
Brown Butter NYC, where Haiti meets Brooklyn, is the spot to pair a perfectly-brewed cappuccino with a buttery homemade biscuit. A native of Haiti, owner Myriam Nicola infuses American breakfast traditions with the flavors of the Caribbean, serving up hot chocolate made with Haitian cocoa and biscuits topped with anything from fried chicken to strawberries […]
Chill is an understatement for this artsy restaurant and bar, making this spot so true-to-type Brooklyn. At Basquiat’s Bottle, you will find yourself in a whimsical black-owned setting —folks who love modern and eccentric art will appreciate the imaginative afro-futuristic vibe of this place and the 90’s and 2000’s hip-hop, and r&b ambience. Great for […]
This restaurant prides itself on offering lively Caribbean-American fusion fare and experience, drawing inspiration from islands such as Barbados, Jamaica, and Haiti to name a few, but with inventive deviations. Try any West Indian inspired creative dish such as the Guinness steak, jerk chicken empanadas, and oxtail tacos, or have the classics like braised oxtails […]
Caribbean Soul Rooftop and Lounge is exactly what it sounds like – a staple for Caribbean soul food with classics such as braised oxtail, rice and peas, and curry goat and imaginative dishes such as cod fish cakes, lemon pepper wings, and jerk french fries. The space is warm and welcoming, with emerald greens accents […]
One minute you’re indulging in sweet plantains and queso frito straight out of a Dominican grandmother’s kitchen. The next, you’re savoring Japanese delicacies like gyoza, tempura, and yakisoba. Mamasushi makes this unexpected fusion work, delivering the perfect Dominican-Japanese lounge and restaurant that we never knew we needed. Variety is one of their strong suits, but […]
If you’re on the 125th strip and want to catch a vibe, you will love Corner Social. Brace yourself for a night out that’s more lit than the name implies as you may find yourself yelling over the DJ. A mood-lifting and turn-up atmosphere, Corner Social is characteristically a clubstaurant pulling in a down-to-earth crowd that […]
For Trinis, Sugarcane will take you back to limin’ at the bars. Clearly built with a living love for sweet, sweet TnT, the stylish Park Slope eatery is one of NYC’s best Caribbean restaurants. Savory chana, rich curry, hearty macaroni pie, and fresh roti are all standouts. The lively oasis also serves modern spins on […]
Critically acclaimed by Food Network as one of New York’s best bars, Cove is where people come for American and Caribbean accented food and music. Set in the middle of Harlem’s Heartbeat strip, Cove is a local favorite for an unplanned, and perhaps wilder night out where a good vibe is guaranteed because the DJ […]
For an iconic NYC dinner experience, stop by STK Steakhouse’s Midtown location, an upscale multi-room bar, lounge, restaurant, and patio located in the Grace building. Enjoy dinner to the sounds of a DJ in the stylish and clubby dining room and enjoy winning entrees like the tuna tartare, truffle fries, the Wagyu Flat Iron steak, […]
Once known as the Dumpling Shop, the eponymous Dumpling Cove is named for its famous hot and fresh dumplings. Set in a family-friendly, clean reggae atmosphere, this spot only serves the Jamaican classics—bammy, brown stew chicken, curry goat, steamed fish, cornmeal porridge, and of course fresh and flaky yet soft dumplings. With polished wood floors […]
Grandma’s house got a makeover, but the food didn’t lose its taste! Blvd Bistro preserves traditional flavors of classic soul food.The candied yams, catfish, shrimp and grits (salt no sugar), and did we mention the biscuits?! Them fried chicken biscuit sliders, baby back ribs and mac & cheese are sensational. Founder Chef Carlos planted his […]
Upbeat, buzzy, and black-owned, Hendrix House is theeee place to catch a dope vibe. The restaurant and lounge makes our top five for the music and vibe alone. The menu is Caribbean American, specializing in quick, meaty bites like chicken wings and lamb chops, as well as near perfect crab cakes and lobster rolls. But […]
Outfitted in colorful upholstered booths and modern lighting, Negril Village was among the first Caribbean restaurants to bring elevated West Indian dining to New York back in 1979. For this reason, the eatery is known and loved in the tri-state area for setting a scene that reminds so many of home with delicious fare and […]
This Spanish-inspired tapas restaurant is a high-energy spot. Poco has the swag for groups looking to have a boozy brunch while jamming to a live DJ. While their trivia and comedy nights attract a widely diverse crowd, Poco’s weekend music attracts younger millennials willing to wait sometimes hours for a table during peak times. And […]
Queens Bully is a neighborhood institution, uniting Forest Hills denizens with the gift of a multicultural gastropub where patrons are bound to find a dish that reminds them of home in some way. The restaurant’s fare has been called “American BBQ fusion,” and the true emphasis is on fusion— serving dishes seasoned with the eclectic mix […]
Welcome to Red Rooster where family reunion meets chic dinner party. Multigenerational and with an eclectic jazzy spirit, Red Rooster physically and metaphorically situates itself in the heart of Harlem and like it’s neighborhood, is reflective of how Southern identity takes on a new form as it migrates North. With entrees such as mac & […]
Smack dab in Harlem’s Restaurant Row sits the aptly named Row House set in contemporary decor, dark wood flooring, and complemented by dope music. The menu serves locals seasonal American comfort cuisine accented by the melanated metropolis that surrounds the eatery—try the chicken n waffles, jerk shrimp tacos, or short ribbed rigatoni mac. Row House […]
Right in the backyard of Columbia University, college students wax poetic about the live music, multicultural crowds, and free wifi. Black and white ceilings emblazoned with eclectic bric a brac and communal benches set the scene for a bohemian oasis. The fare is Lebanese, serving plates such as baba ganoush, hummus, and falafel while reggae […]
Nestled in the heart of Harlem, Angel of Harlem is known for its party vibe and solid food. As people often come in large groups for various celebrations, this restaurant is usually packed and reservations are a must. The menu is a mix of American, Caribbean, and Latin flavors with entrees ranging from buttermilk pancakes […]
With spicy jollof rice, peppery suya, savory moimoi, and cocktails like “slay mama” and “wahala dey,” Lagos Restaurant and Lounge is bringing Nigeria to NYC. A cross between a Nigerian restaurant and a typical Lagos nightclub, Lagos locals testify that the lounge recalls the tastes, rhythm, and energy of their city. Here, soft blue light […]
Filled with passion and fire, Zona de Cuba is a Bronx rooftop restaurant serving a menu of first-class Cuban cuisine. We loved the croquetes, seafood paella, mofongo, and pan-seared chicken breast, especially because they all came with the essential accoutrements–platanos maduros or fritos, savory black beans, yuca, and more. An ambitious undertaking, this restaurant captivates […]
If Cz stands for cozy, then this snug, modern Jamaican eatery lives up to its name. Known for a lively Caribbean atmosphere serving Jamaican staples and flavors from various parts of the West Indies— oxtail, rice and peas, jerk chicken, and callaloo as well as rum-infused cocktails such as the Liquid Marijuana and Call A […]
Barawine is synonymous with community and versatility. This French restaurant offers a full and flavorsome menu of well-presented food, vibe, and wine that offers something for everyone, uniting Harlem denizens and newcomers alike. With an extensive wine list of 40 wines by the glass and over 200 by the bottle, you are bound to find […]
Food, drink, and vibes abound on this rooftop in Brooklyn. A rooftop in BK is a rare find, and for this reason, it pulls in a multicultural crowd of those who need to refresh with city vistas and cocktails. Transport yourself to what feels like a zen green Japanese terrace with gorgeous lighting and oriental […]
Launched in 2020 and in the heart of Williamsburg sits the colorful and chic Kokomo— one of the glammest presentations of Caribbean cuisine that New York has to offer. The atmosphere is sophisticated yet casual with dark floral wallpaper contrasted against tropical orange seating, a fireplace by the bar area, and stylized chandeliers that dim […]
Honestly, go here strictly for the food which boasts some of the best Italian in all of the city. Nestled on Bowery Street and not a long walk from Soho, treat yourself to some to-die-for pasta at this eatery. Delicious dishes paired with a down-to-earth vibe pull a diverse crowd who came for the breakfast […]
Elite Williamsburg is an interesting “restaurant” in the sense that it’s clearly a club, and then somehow during construction a bar and restaurant fell smack dab in the middle of it all. It’s been lively every time I’ve stopped by. A bouncer – sorry, doorman – greets you at the front. When you walk up […]
This is, for all intents and purposes, a true Mexican grocery store dressed up as a classic NYC bodega. You’ll find shelves adorned with Mexican products and a small selection of imported colas (including Mexican versions of Coke & Pepsi – which are hands down superior to the ones produced anywhere else). Its humble location […]
Right in the heart of West Harlem, this pub and beer garden is a reliable spot for chill vibes and American fare. Calamari, shrimp & grits, macaroni & cheese, and the truffle burger are all winning entrees especially when paired with live jazz music and good hip hop depending on the day of the week. […]
For those who want Caribbean culture with the classic charm of polished dining, The Door is a landmark restaurant with over 20 years in business. Set in a formal dining room aesthetic with white tablecloths, the eatery pulls a family-oriented and mature crowd. Entrees feature the classics—oxtail, curry goat, jerk chicken, escovitch fish, and their […]
At this French bistro-style restaurant, you’re greeted by simple and open decor that invites you to unwind. Here, the only priority is to relax and enjoy great quality French-American fare in a comforting and casual setting, which positions Maison one of those places where having company is a plus but not needed. Being a French […]
“French Dining, Redefined,” is a slogan that announces the contemporary and re-inventive touch that Le Privé brings to traditional French dining. For one, the owners are Guyanese and Haitian, which is why the food has been described as “Haitian accented French cuisine” with fork-tender meats, rich flavors that mesh easily, and hints of African diasporic […]
Walk a few blocks from the 2nd Avenue F and you’ll find Sweet Chick, boasting “the best chicken and waffles on planet Earth.” It’s a bold claim, but Sweet Chick delivers, with crispy yet juicy chicken and perfectly fluffy waffles in a multitude of flavors. We also loved the mac n’ cheese (served in a […]
Suede is a spirited and sexy Nu Caribbean dining experience set in a flashy space. An outdoor patio, waterfall, and colorful mood lights set the tone for a West Indian style TUN UP. Don’t expect the typical Caribbean menu— think spicy, sugary, and savory, in new textures and new places. Do expect creative fusion plates […]
When it comes to Bad Habits, “Instagrammable” is the first word that comes to mind. The newly opened sports bar and lounge brings a clubby ambience to Astoria. The black and neon interior sets a party vibe without being tacky. A place for people who don’t mind spending extra for picturesque backdrops and a mix […]
Recommended everywhere from Amsterdam News to the New York Times, this small artisan ice-cream shop is making a big impact. A cozy-sweet shop outfitted in pink, Sugar Hill Creamery is a family-oriented ice cream parlor shaking up the classic dessert shop experience. Expect spirit lifting artisanal flavors like blueberry cheesecake, coffee turmeric ginger, and honey […]
On the quiet side of one of Caribbean Brooklyn’s streets, Lakou Cafe serves Haitian inspired and enhanced American comfort food. Lakou, which means “the courtyard” in Creole, has quickly become a hangout spot for millennial WFH types, pulling melanated folks who cherish good smoothies with authentic Haitian chocolate. Owned by a young black woman, this […]
