Blackstrap molasses, often dubbed the underdog of natural sweeteners, carries a wealth of flavor, nutrition, and culinary potential. Its rich, dark flavor profile, combined with a plethora of health benefits, has garnered attention from chefs, health enthusiasts, and home cooks alike. If you find yourself in New York, a city renowned for its diverse culinary tapestry, visiting some local sites that feature blackstrap molasses can inspire a shift in your culinary perspective. Here’s a curated list of ten remarkable establishments across various neighborhoods, each with their distinct offerings that showcase the magic of this unassuming ingredient.
1. Whole Foods Market – Bowery
Address: 95 E Houston St, New York, NY 10002
Contact: (212) 477-2400
Website: wholefoodsmarket.com
Nestled in the vibrant Bowery neighborhood, Whole Foods Market presents blackstrap molasses among its myriad organic offerings. Known for its commitment to sustainable sourcing, this market provides a range of health foods. Visitors can explore various products featuring molasses, from granola bars to marinades, allowing for both tasting and experimentation.
2. Sunday in Brooklyn
Address: 348 Wythe Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11249
Contact: (718) 388-2500
Website: sundayinbrooklyn.com
At this chic brunch spot in Williamsburg, chefs artfully blend blackstrap molasses into their signature dishes. The restaurant encapsulates the essence of Brooklyn’s culinary innovation. Their molasses-infused baked goods, particularly the pancakes, promise a delightful contrast of sweetness and depth, offering an extraordinary twist on brunch staples.
3. The Spice House
Address: 105 Greenwich Ave, New York, NY 10014
Contact: (212) 929-1000
Website: spicehouse.com
Delve into a treasure trove of spices at The Spice House in the West Village, where the allure of blackstrap molasses is further elevated by an array of global culinary influences. This market specializes in premium spices that harmonize beautifully with molasses, from warm cinnamon to cardamom. Discover recipes or simply indulge in the artistry of flavor.
4. Harlem’s Patisserie
Address: 305 W 116th St, New York, NY 10026
Contact: (646) 820-5606
Website: harlempatisserie.com
This charming bakery in Harlem offers a delightful selection of pastries utilizing blackstrap molasses as a base ingredient. The rich, complex flavors imparted by the molasses create a unique palate experience. Rather than typical sweetness, Patrons will appreciate the depth it adds to the signature baked goods, establishing a new benchmark for delightful indulgence.
5. Natural Grocers – Hell’s Kitchen
Address: 630 9th Ave, New York, NY 10036
Contact: (212) 262-9000
Website: naturalgrocers.com
In the heart of Hell’s Kitchen, Natural Grocers champions health and wellness with a diverse range of organic products, including blackstrap molasses. This grocery store not only provides the ingredient itself but also offers workshops and tastings that educate consumers on its nutritional merits. Engaging with knowledge in this vibrant environment encourages a refreshing perspective on health food.
6. Eataly NYC Flatiron
Address: 200 5th Ave, New York, NY 10010
Contact: (212) 490-8500
Website: eataly.com
Eataly, an Italian culinary paradise, introduces blackstrap molasses into select artisanal products. Including it in gourmet sauces and specialty candies, this market showcases the ingredient’s versatility. Take a moment to savor a fresh dessert infused with molasses, showcasing its potential to lend complexity to traditional recipes.
7. Calicutts Spice Co.
Address: 288 E 8th St, New York, NY 10009
Contact: (212) 358-0151
Website: calicutts.com
Dedicated to the art of spices from South India, Calicutts Spice Co. introduces blackstrap molasses in various chutneys and spice blends that spiral beyond typical flavor profiles. Visitors can engage with the proprietors to learn about unique uses of molasses, fostering creativity in their own culinary adventures.
8. Greenlight Bookstore
Address: 686 Fulton St, Brooklyn, NY 11217
Contact: (718) 246-0200
Website: greenlightbookstore.com
While primarily a literary haven, Greenlight Bookstore hosts various food-themed events and book signings where blackstrap molasses takes center stage in recipe demonstrations. This cross-pollination of literature and gastronomy fosters curiosity about the ingredient’s centuries-old uses and inspires attendees in their kitchens.
9. Chelsea Market
Address: 75 9th Ave, New York, NY 10011
Contact: (212) 652-2110
Website: chelseamarket.com
Within the bustling Chelsea Market, a treasure trove of culinary delights awaits. Look for vendors who incorporate blackstrap molasses in their specialty foods, from artisanal chocolates to savory sauces. The exploration of diverse eats reflects the multifaceted uses of molasses, igniting curiosity and encouraging culinary experimentation.
10. The Food Emporium
Address: 750 9th Ave, New York, NY 10019
Contact: (212) 586-6700
Website: thefoodemporium.com
For a quintessential grocery experience, The Food Emporium presents a variety of organic products, including blackstrap molasses. Customers can engage with culinary experts who periodically offer insights and recipes that spotlight the ingredient’s nutritional prowess. Discovering the hidden potential within this unassuming sweetener inspires new culinary adventures.
As you traverse the vibrant neighborhoods of New York, these ten establishments offer more than just a taste of blackstrap molasses—they promise a new lens through which to view this nutritional powerhouse. From sophisticated pastries to health-centric groceries, each venue invites you to explore and experiment with flavors that might otherwise be overlooked. So, take a step into these culinary corners and indulge your curiosity—they might just change the way you think about this ancient sweetener forever.
