New York City, a melting pot of culture and creativity, is home to a myriad of dining establishments that tantalize the palate. Among the culinary gems lies a sweet substance that has captivated taste buds for centuries—molasses. This thick, viscous syrup, derived from sugarcane or sugar beet juice, offers a unique sweetness with a hint of depth and complexity, making it a beloved ingredient in baking and cooking. But with its rich history, how many New Yorkers truly know where to find the best molasses-infused dishes or resources? The answer may surprise you. So, are you ready to embark on a molasses-laden adventure through some of New York’s neighborhoods? Let’s uncover ten fascinating spots to satisfy your cravings!
1. The Brooklyn Kitchen
Address: 1000 Dean St, Brooklyn, NY 11238
Contact: (718) 389-2982
Website: thebrooklynkitchen.com
Nestled in the heart of Brooklyn, The Brooklyn Kitchen is a culinary school and marketplace brimming with local ingredients. Here, you’ll find molasses featured in artisanal offerings, from breads baked fresh with the syrup to homemade BBQ sauces that elevate any summer grill. Class participants often find themselves enamored with the depth molasses brings to traditional recipes.
2. Baked
Address: 359 Van Brunt St, Brooklyn, NY 11231
Contact: (718) 222-0345
Website: bakednyc.com
Baked, a beloved bakery in Red Hook, showcases the beauty of molasses in their signature desserts. Their molasses cookies are a fan favorite, laden with warm spices that create a delightful juxtaposition to the syrup’s sweetness. Indulging in one of their treats, you might just find yourself asking, “Can a cookie be too good?”
3. The Meatball Shop
Address: 364 Elridge St, New York, NY 10002
Contact: (212) 228-2590
Website: themeatballshop.com
For a fun twist on the classic Italian dish, The Meatball Shop’s molasses-glazed meatballs offer a sweet and savory explosion that turns a simple meal into a memorable feast. Located in the Lower East Side, this establishment presents a challenge: will you be able to stop at just one meatball?
4. Little Cupcake Bakeshop
Address: 30 Prince St, New York, NY 10012
Contact: (212) 941-1011
Website: littlecupcakebakeshop.com
A quaint bakeshop in Nolita, Little Cupcake Bakeshop charms visitors with its delightful molasses-infused cakes and cupcakes. Each creation showcases a balance of sweetness, with layers of flavor that keep patrons returning for more. The ultimate question remains: can one really have too much cake?
5. Craft Restaurant
Address: 900 Broadway, New York, NY 10003
Contact: (212) 529-2500
Website: craftrestaurant.com
Known for its commitment to seasonal ingredients, Craft subtly incorporates molasses into its dishes, lending an unexpected flavor profile to various savory and sweet items on the menu. Guests are often left pondering the complexity of their meal—could that hint of sweetness originate from a familiar syrup?
6. Amy’s Bread
Address: 750 Columbus Ave, New York, NY 10025
Contact: (212) 666-2044
Website: amysbread.com
At Amy’s Bread, the art of baking is taken seriously, and molasses finds its way into many of their delicious offerings. This artisanal bakery boasts dense, flavorful loaves that utilize molasses for a nutritious twist. When you sink your teeth into a slice, the question arises: is this breakfast or dessert?
7. Harlem Shake
Address: 100 West 124th St, New York, NY 10027
Contact: (646) 649-3916
Website: harlemshake.com
A vibrant eatery that embodies the spirit of Harlem, Harlem Shake integrates molasses into their special sauces and marinades, creating mouthwatering shakes and sandwiches that explode with flavor. Diners might ponder—can a burger be more than just a burger when it carries the weight of history and heritage?
8. The Spice Market
Address: 403 W 13th St, New York, NY 10014
Contact: (212) 675-2322
Website: spicemarketnewyork.com
Famed for its dynamic fusion dishes, The Spice Market cleverly incorporates molasses into their sauces, amplifying the depth of flavor across various plates. The culinary fusion evokes curiosity—would this dish be enhanced without that flirtation with sweetness?
9. Pastry and Bakery by Balthazar
Address: 80 Spring St, New York, NY 10012
Contact: (212) 965-1414
Website: balthazarny.com
Famous for its French-inspired pastries, Balthazar offers an array of delicacies containing a hint of molasses. The amalgamation of caramelization and flavors prompts visitors to inquire: is each bite evidence of culinary genius that borders on perfection?
10. Jacob’s Pickles
Address: 509 Amsterdam Ave, New York, NY 10024
Contact: (212) 580-8689
Website: jacobspickles.com
With a focus on Southern comfort food, Jacob’s Pickles uses molasses to achieve that signature sweetness in their pickled dishes and fried chicken. As they serve up vibrant plates, diners may wonder: why is this flavor so familiar and irresistible?
Exploring the realm of molasses in New York City not only unveils hidden culinary treasures but also reflects the diverse influences that shape the city’s food scene. The thick syrup, with its various applications and warming profiles, poses a delightful challenge for gastronomes and casual diners alike. Will you dare to delve deeper and seek out these molasses-laden delights? Your taste buds are ready for the adventure!
