As the vibrant energy of spring fills the air, join us as we embark on a journey to support the thriving community of Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI)-owned businesses nestled near NYC Ferry landings. Throughout the month of May and beyond, let’s celebrate the rich cultural tapestry of the AAPI community by patronizing these establishments. From tantalizing eateries serving up traditional delicacies to boutique shops offering unique treasures, each visit is an opportunity to not only savor exquisite flavors and discover one-of-a-kind finds but also to uplift and empower local entrepreneurs.
Baby’s Buns & Buckets
Route: South Brooklyn
Landing: Atlantic Ave
Baby’s Buns & Buckets, a multi-generational women-owned business, has been renowned for serving the best Thai food in NYC since the 80s. In August 2022, the three daughters of the founder introduced a modernized version of their mother’s culinary delights, aiming to provide both delectable cuisine and vibrant ambiance for patrons to enjoy.
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Jubilee Marketplace
Route: East River
Landing: Green Point
Since 1999-2000, Jubilee Marketplace has been a cornerstone of the community, offering organic and gourmet products. In 2023, they expanded to Greenpoint, Brooklyn, introducing innovative offerings like local pasture-raised butchery and sustainable seafood.
Gurumé
Route: St. George
Landing: Midtown West
In Hell’s Kitchen, Gurumé stands as a cozy tapas bar, offering a cultural oasis amidst the city’s hustle. Chef Joon’s innovative take on Korean tapas, infused with New York flair, delights patrons with every dish.
Tea Dealers & Ceramics
Route: Sound View
Landing: Stuyvesant Cove
Founded in 2015 by Shin Won Yoon and Stefen Ramirez, Tea Dealers is a New York City-based tea company. Focusing on sourcing premium teas directly from small farmers in China, Korea, Japan, Taiwan, and India, they offer a unique selection. Their love for tea has taken them around the globe in search of traditionally crafted blends and exquisite handmade teaware and ceramics.
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Patisserie Tomoko
Route: East River
Landing: North Williamsburg
Chef Tomoko combines French and European style pastries with Japanese-inspired tastes and flavors, offering an exotic open space design with separate Dessert Bar and Take Out counter sections. The Dessert Bar features a three-course flight of delectable desserts, complemented by optional wine or sake pairings, while original pastries and baked goods are available at the Take Out counter.
Yu and Me Books
Route: South Brooklyn
Landing: Corlears Hook
Yu and Me Books, the first female Asian-American NYC-based bookstore, bar, and cafe, was founded with a vision to create a welcoming space for diverse voices, particularly immigrant stories. With a passion for representation and justice, they aim to foster a community where everyone feels heard and represented through literature, creating a safe space for sharing stories and sparking meaningful conversations for years to come.
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Verge
Route: East River
Landing: Green Point
Indulge in fresh sushi and delicious dishes from the kitchen at this tasty sushi restaurant in Green Point.
Go Go Curry
Route: St. George
Landing: Midtown West
At Go! Go! Curry!, Japanese curry is a beloved comfort food, bringing smiles to customers who return for authentic katsu curry.
Dun Huang
Route: Astoria
Landing: Brooklyn Navy Yard
Dunhuang Lanzhou beef noodles, originating from Lanzhou, Gansu Province, ranks among China’s “Top Ten Noodles”. Praised globally for its signature blend of “one clear, two white, three red, four green, and five yellow” ingredients, it has earned recognition as one of the top three Chinese fast food dishes by the Chinese Cuisine Association, often hailed as the “Number 1 Ranking Chinese Noodle”.
NYC-Based Online Businesses to Support
Rooted
Sign up for a plant subscription and get a mystery plant every month—or choose your favorite plant from their large selection.
Keyks
Chef Jae serves up nostalgic cookies and treats that you are sure to love. Be sure to try the Keyks, a twinkie-inspired dessert.
The Woobles
This Female AAPI co-founded small business specializes in creating kits to help you learn to crochet. As seen on Shark Tank!