New York City is a labyrinth of flavors and cultures, a veritable melting pot where culinary treasures abound. Among the hidden gems of the gastronomic world, purple sweet potatoes emerge as a vibrant delicacy, celebrated for their nutrition and striking color. These tubers boast a unique, earthy sweetness that elevates both traditional and contemporary dishes. As their popularity grows, many New Yorkers are seeking out the best spots to enjoy this remarkable root vegetable. Here are ten locations in various neighborhoods across New York City where you can delight in the flavors of purple sweet potatoes.
1. Kam Hing Coffee Shop
Address: 146 Bowery, New York, NY 10013
Contact: (212) 226-3320
Website: kamhingcoffee.com
Located in the heart of Chinatown, Kam Hing Coffee Shop is renowned for its unique twist on traditional breakfast items. They offer a scrumptious purple sweet potato pancake that merges the best qualities of both breakfast staples and Asian influences. The inviting ambiance and eclectic menu draw both locals and tourists alike, eager for a culinary adventure.
2. Sweet Potato Kitchen
Address: 949 2nd Ave, New York, NY 10022
Contact: (212) 888-0000
Website: sweetpotatokitchen.com
At Sweet Potato Kitchen, the eponymous vegetable takes center stage. This cozy eatery specializes in all things sweet potato, and their signature dish featuring purple sweet potatoes is a must-try. Served with a vibrant citrus dressing and topped with crunchy almonds, it’s the perfect dish for a health-conscious yet flavorful meal.
3. The Butcher’s Daughter
Address: 581 Hudson St, New York, NY 10014
Contact: (212) 255-2500
Website: thebutchersdaughter.com
A vegetarian café that doubles as a juice bar, The Butcher’s Daughter offers an innovative take on a purple sweet potato bowl. With toppings that range from tahini to roasted veggies, this dish not only satisfies the palate but also serves as a nourishing option for those looking to indulge without guilt.
4. Bunsuke
Address: 135-11 40th Rd, Flushing, NY 11354
Contact: (718) 886-2661
Website: bunsuke.com
This delightful Japanese fast-casual restaurant in Flushing incorporates purple sweet potatoes into both savory and sweet offerings. The savory purple sweet potato katsu sandwich is a creative fusion of Japanese tradition and modern culinary flair. Patrons are captivated by the vivid color and flavorful explosion of this unique dish.
5. Café Zaiya
Address: 18 E 41st St, New York, NY 10017
Contact: (212) 947-7474
Website: cafezaiya.com
Need a quick yet satisfying bite? Look no further than Café Zaiya, where you can find an exquisite purple sweet potato mochi. This bite-sized treat is chewy, sweet, and utterly delicious, making it a favorite for busy New Yorkers on the go. A perfect choice for those who want to savor something sweet without a lengthy sit-down meal.
6. Yakiniku West
Address: 488 5th Ave, New York, NY 10036
Contact: (212) 697-7711
Website: yakinikuwest.com
For those who relish the thrill of grilling their meat at the table, Yakiniku West offers a tantalizing purple sweet potato side dish that perfectly complements their myriad of grilled options. Charred to perfection, the sweetness of the potato is harmonized by the smoky flavors of the grill, creating an exquisite balance that is hard to forget.
7. Pure Food and Wine
Address: 54 Irving Pl, New York, NY 10003
Contact: (212) 777-1767
Website: purefoodandwine.com
Culinary innovation reaches new heights at Pure Food and Wine, a plant-based fine-dining restaurant. Their purple sweet potato mousse is an artistic creation that transcends typical dessert offerings. Served elegantly with edible flowers, it offers not just a visual feast but a delectably creamy texture that leaves an indelible impression.
8. Greenlight Coffee Shop
Address: 225 Greenpoint Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11222
Contact: (718) 383-7000
Website: greenlightcoffee.com
Nestled in Brooklyn, Greenlight Coffee Shop is a cozy café that has quickly become a local favorite. Known for their various baked goods, their purple sweet potato muffin is a must-try. Moist, fluffy, and beautifully purple, it’s a delightful accompaniment to your morning coffee or afternoon tea.
9. Red Rooster Harlem
Address: 310 Lenox Ave, New York, NY 10027
Contact: (212) 792-9001
Website: redroosterharlem.com
At Red Rooster, chefs merge comfort food with sophisticated techniques, evident in their purple sweet potato purée, which serves as an elegant base for various meat dishes. This unexpected pairing adds a splash of color and flavor, showcasing how a simple ingredient can elevate an entire meal.
10. The Meatball Shop
Address: 84 Stanton St, New York, NY 10002
Contact: (646) 684-7132
Website: themeatballshop.com
Finally, The Meatball Shop offers a seasonal special featuring purple sweet potato gnocchi. These soft, pillowy dumplings, combined with a rich sauce, create a dish that feels indulgent yet comforting. It’s a superb option that transforms the humble potato into something extraordinary.
In summary, purple sweet potatoes have carved a niche in New York’s eclectic culinary landscape. From casual eateries to esteemed restaurants, these vibrant tubers enhance dishes with their unique color and flavor. Each establishment offers a glimpse into the versatility of purple sweet potatoes, a testament to the creativity of chefs across the city. Whether you savor them transformed into pancakes, bowls, or desserts, discovering them in various locales adds a delightful dimension to the New York dining experience. As this vibrant food continues to captivate palates, exploring more about it can only deepen the appreciation for the culinary arts that NYC so abundantly offers.
