New York City, known for its diverse culinary landscape, has embraced a plethora of exotic fruits, with durian making a notable presence in various neighborhoods. This unique fruit, often dubbed as the “king of fruits,” is both loved and loathed for its distinctive aroma and creamy texture. Here’s a look at ten places in New York where you can explore this intriguing tropical delicacy.
1. Kalbi BBQ
Address: 346 W 37th St, New York, NY 10018
Contact: (212) 564-4848
Website: www.kalbibbq.com
Known primarily as a Korean barbecue spot, Kalbi BBQ occasionally features durian ice cream on its dessert menu. Patrons can expect a delightful scoop of creamy, durian-infused goodness that perfectly complements their grilled meats, creating a savory-sweet experience.
2. Dessert Oasis
Address: 31-07 37th Ave, Astoria, NY 11101
Contact: (718) 361-6888
Website: www.dessertoasis.com
This dessert haven is famous for its array of Asian-inspired treats, including durian crepes. These delightful parcels wrap the rich flavor of durian, paired with whipped cream or coconut, making for a decadent and portable snack that encapsulates the essence of tropical flavors.
3. Tropical Israeli Restaurant
Address: 9925 62nd Dr, Rego Park, NY 11374
Contact: (718) 896-3333
Website: www.tropicalisraeli.com
Tropical Israeli offers a range of exotic dishes, featuring durian in their smoothie selections. Blending the rich, custardy fruit with refreshing tropical flavors results in an invigorating drink, but be advised; it’s a potent flavor that may not suit everyone’s palate.
4. The Good Batch
Address: 251 E 7th St, Brooklyn, NY 11218
Contact: (347) 689-2704
Website: www.thegoodbatch.com
This artisanal bakery pushes the boundaries of traditional pastries with their innovative durian pastries. With flaky crusts and a rich durian filling, these offerings highlight the versatility of this tropical fruit, making for a unique addition to their baked goods.
5. Sook & Porridge
Address: 5 W 27th St, New York, NY 10001
Contact: (646) 678-4639
Website: www.sookandporridge.com
At Sook & Porridge, the culinary approach favors textures and flavors inspired by Southeast Asian cuisine. Their durian pudding is a creamy, luscious treat garnished with toasted coconut, melding the richness of the durian with delightful textural contrasts.
6. Little Indonesia
Address: 2124 65th St, Brooklyn, NY 11204
Contact: (718) 438-1945
Website: www.littleindonesianyc.com
With an authentic Indonesian flair, Little Indonesia is one of the go-to places for acquiring fresh durian. This market not only provides the raw fruit but often has durian-based snacks and dishes, allowing patrons to truly immerse themselves in the fruit’s myriad offerings.
7. The Bronx Night Market
Address: Fordham Plaza, Bronx, NY 10458
Contact: N/A (check website for updates)
Website: www.bronxnightmarket.com
A bustling hub for gastronomes, this night market features a rotating selection of food vendors, some of which serve durian delicacies. From durian smoothies to durian-flavored pastries, this is the perfect venue to explore new durian-inspired dishes each weekend.
8. Spicewalla
Address: 145 N Birmingham Rd, Brooklyn, NY 11211
Contact: (718) 684-2226
Website: www.spicewalla.com
Specializing in spices and exotic seasonings, Spicewalla offers a durian powder that can be used in culinary creations. For those who appreciate cooking, this product allows you to experiment with durian in savory or sweet dishes, expanding your horizons on how to utilize this unique ingredient.
9. Asia Mart
Address: 166 Baxter St, New York, NY 10013
Contact: (212) 431-2900
Website: www.asiamartny.com
This Asian grocery store stocks a variety of durian products, from frozen whole fruits to durian candies. A great spot to discover new durian snacks or ingredients to take home for culinary experiments, Asia Mart is a treasure trove for durian enthusiasts.
10. Super Taste
Address: 88-02 45th Ave, Elmhurst, NY 11373
Contact: (718) 441-2105
Website: www.supertastes.com
Super Taste is renowned for its incredible selection of Asian-style desserts. Often serving durian desserts, including fluffy durian pancakes, this venue is a must-visit for those wanting to experience a sweet take on the beloved fruit.
Exploring the durian scene in New York can be a thrilling quest for food lovers. From savory dishes to innovative desserts, each of these establishments brings a unique approach to this notoriously pungent fruit, ensuring that there’s something delightful for every durian enthusiast to discover.
