NYC’s Culinary Scene: Sweet Shops, New openings & a Farewell
New York — May 16, 2024 —
The culinary landscape in New york City is experiencing changes, with new sweet shops emerging, highly anticipated restaurants opening their doors, and the closure of a beloved establishment. From the Upper East Side to Greenpoint, food enthusiasts are witnessing a dynamic shift in the city’s dining scene. This wave of evolution includes new candies, an Ethiopian opening, and a polish farewell. Read on for more details.
New York City’s Culinary Landscape: A Sweet Expansion, Long-Awaited Openings, and a Fond Farewell
A New Generation of Sweet Shops on the Upper East Side
The Manhattan candy scene is evolving. following the popularity of Sockerbit in the West Village, the multiple locations of BonBon, and Lil Sweet Treat, a new contender has emerged. Glace, owned by Sasha Zabar, a member of the Zabar family, has expanded its Upper East Side presence to include a candy store at 1266 Madison Avenue, between 90th and 91st Street.
Glace initially gained attention for its hot and frozen chocolate drinks. Now, the new candy selection features items from around the world. According to a spokesperson, the selection is influenced by Sasha’s love of unique flavor profiles and shapes, and also his nostalgia for his favorite childhood candy spot, Millionaire Deli, the space Glace currently occupies.
The store also allows customers to use the candies as mix-ins at the ice cream bar.
Sunnyside’s Makina Cafe Finally set to Open
After years of anticipation, Makina Cafe, a restaurant from the popular Ethiopian Eritrean food truck, is nearing its opening. Eater had previously listed Makina Cafe on its anticipated openings list. Eden Gebre Egziabher is preparing to open her restaurant at 46-11 Skillman avenue, near 46th Street, in Queens. A video showcasing the build-out was recently shared on the company’s Instagram.
Ms. egziabher first launched Makina as New York City’s first Ethiopian Eritrean mobile restaurant in 2017. The signature yellow food truck became a familiar sight throughout the boroughs, and later expanded with a location on Governors Island.
filipino Chinese Cuisine Arrives in Lower Manhattan
Binondo, a new sit-down Filipino chinese restaurant, opened its doors on May 8 in Chinatown at 50 East Broadway, near Market Street. The restaurant serves both food and cocktails. The team behind Binondo previously operated Kabisera, a Filipino food stand inside the now-closed Canal Street Market. Kabisera had transitioned to a catering and pop-up model before the opening of Binondo.
Greenpoint Loses a Polish Staple
Polka Dot, a fast-casual pierogi restaurant on Manhattan Avenue in Greenpoint, has closed after nearly 30 years in business, according to Greenpointers. the restaurant had attempted to raise $250,000 on GoFundMe earlier this year to cover debts incurred during the pandemic, but the campaign fell short of its goal.
Frequently Asked Questions
Did you know?
The pierogi, a staple at Polka Dot, is a filled dumpling of Central and Eastern European origin, traditionally made with unleavened dough and various fillings such as potato, cheese, or meat.
Pro Tip
When visiting Binondo, try their signature cocktails that complement the filipino Chinese cuisine for a complete dining experiance.
