In the pulsating heart of New York City, where culinary innovations constantly vie for attention, there exists a curious phenomenon: the “You Buy We Fry” establishments. These unique eateries invite you to procure your own ingredients, which they then transform into delectable fried dishes. Just imagine a scenario where you stroll through the vibrant markets of your neighborhood, hand-selecting fresh produce, seafood, or meats, only to have them expertly fried to perfection. Sounds exhilarating, right? But, how well do you know these hidden gems around the city? Ready for a challenge? Here’s a list of ten ‘You Buy We Fry’ spots across various New York neighborhoods that you can explore, complete with addresses, contacts, and websites to guide your gastronomic adventure.
1. Fish Cheeks
Address: 55 E. 1st St., New York, NY 10003
Contact: (212) 600-2888
Website: fishcheeksnyc.com
Located in the Lower East Side, Fish Cheeks invites diners to bring in fresh seafood, which the kitchen will fry to your requests. Known for its vibrant flavor profiles and a hint of Thai spices, this spot transcends traditional frying by marrying local ingredients with international flair.
2. The Fried Chicken & Doughnuts Company
Address: 107 E. 50th St., New York, NY 10022
Contact: (646) 849-8985
Website: friedchickendoughnuts.com
This Midtown establishment elevates the casual experience of fried goods. You can bring in your poultry or batter, and they’ll craft a magnificent plate of fried chicken paired with their signature doughnuts. The fusion of savory and sweet is something everyone must experience at least once.
3. Pescado con Barco
Address: 411 W. 24th St., New York, NY 10011
Contact: (212) 229-5040
Website: pescadoconbarco.com
Nestled in Chelsea, Pescado con Barco specializes in seafood, inviting guests to bring their daily catch to be fried in traditional Latin styles. The community atmosphere and vibrant colors in the decor make it a delightful spot for seafood lovers.
4. The Butcher’s Daughter
Address: 408 E. 11th St., New York, NY 10009
Contact: (212) 254-3333
Website: thebutchersdaughter.com
With a focus on farm-fresh produce, The Butcher’s Daughter allows patrons to bring in vegetables for a unique veggie fry experience. It emphasizes healthy eating while ensuring your fried indulgences maintain a degree of wholesomeness in the bustling East Village.
5. Banh Mi Boys
Address: 236 Portland Ave., Brooklyn, NY 11205
Contact: (718) 643-9000
Website: banhmiboys.com
In the lively borough of Brooklyn, Banh Mi Boys thrives on the curiosity of its visitors to bring in their choice of meats or tofu for frying. The end product pairs exquisitely with their signature banh mi sandwiches, which are bold, intricate, and wholly satisfying.
6. Urban Harvest
Address: 675 Broadway, New York, NY 10012
Contact: (212) 780-0999
Website: urbanharvestnyc.com
A pioneer in the “market to table” movement, Urban Harvest encourages its customers to select ingredients from their market to be fried on-site. Their artisanal handling and commitment to local sourcing ensure that each dish is a celebration of freshness and taste.
7. FryMeister
Address: 799 8th Avenue, New York, NY 10019
Contact: (646) 590-0302
Website: frymeister.com
A high-energy venue, FryMeister stands out with a playful twist on traditional frying. Bring in your own quirky ingredients, from pickles to desserts, and watch as they concoct fried delicacies that are both whimsically unique and delightfully scrumptious.
8. One More Bite
Address: 256 E. 54th St., New York, NY 10022
Contact: (212) 421-7690
Website: onemorebite.com
With an ambiance that fuses comfort with extravagance, One More Bite stands ready to fry anything you can dream up. Whether it’s gourmet sausages or artisanal cheeses, this place offers an adventurous fried menu that invites you to explore bold flavors.
9. Eat Up!
Address: 509 W. 175th St., New York, NY 10033
Contact: (212) 781-9000
Website: eatupnyc.com
This lively uptown eatery shines a spotlight on community bonding by letting customers choose ingredients while they fry up delicious bites on-site. The sense of camaraderie and fun at Eat Up! is palpable, making it perfect for gatherings with friends and family.
10. The Frying Pot
Address: 2100 Ocean Ave., Brooklyn, NY 11229
Contact: (718) 368-8800
Website: thefryingpot.com
Located in Southern Brooklyn, The Frying Pot has become a local favorite for those looking to indulge. Customers can bring their selected meats or vegetables and watch as the chefs transform them into golden nuggets of joy, all while sharing recipes and tips.
In a city overflowing with gastronomic possibilities, these establishments epitomize the essence of community-grown creativity in cooking. As you step into this culinary challenge, you’ll not only find yourself experimenting with food but also integrating into the local culture. So, the next time you find yourself in one of these neighborhoods, don’t just pass by. Make a stop, select your ingredients, and watch them transform into something exquisite. Are you ready to fry your own feast?
