Harlem Chocolate Factory New York
Edible Harlem history
I was speeding along Adam Clayton Powell Boulevard on an electric CitiBike---along Striver's Row---on a hot, sweaty Autumn evening when I noticed a glint of gold on my left around 139th Street, then spied the Harlem Chocolate Factory distinguished by its shiny gold and chocolate brown awning.
In the patois of an authentic New Yorker, chocolatier Jessica Spaulding says “I’m nevva gonna stop making and eating chocolate, evva!” followed by “Beauty is the bittersweetness of... opportunity and poverty” in her YouTube video, here.
Jessica is a ‘breakout boss’, who even personally photographs the Harlem scenes showcased on the wrappers that adorn her chocolate bars and who specifically crafts the recipes encompassing everything she finds in those areas, her effort being to convey the spectrum of cultural experiences available in Harlem. "I need to make sure everyone along the line is treated fairly. Things like non-fair trade practices are something I think we can eliminate in our lifetime", she adds.
You oughta see her marbled chocolate and her chocolate and cayenne ganache in her sparkling shop with its open kitchen from which everything comes.
There is a collection of truffles called the Sunday Soul Collection. They’re inspired by classic desserts like the Sweet Potato Pie, Red Velvet Cake, and Banana Pudding. And upcoming? Possibly the 'Harlem shuffle truffle' with hints of booze and allusions to the dance.
Any choice here is a terrific NYC souvenir/gift for yourself and friends back home. It will take time before these appear abroad.
About this spot
Find your way with 304 Insider Tips from our Local Spotters
Nice place right!? There’s so much more to discover:
Discover all other hidden gems in New York
Fall Foliage
Central Park
A walk through Central Park in New York is probably your best way of appreciating the folliage change colors. I recommend walking along the allée of elms.
by
Geoffrey
Dunbar
American Folk Art Museum
Free recitals
The American Folk Art Museum in New York hosts free live jazz and eclectic concerts, with thoughtful exhibits and a folksy gift shop worth browsing.
by
Geoffrey
Dunbar
Sisters
Soul/Jamaica Fusion in Harlem
"Sisters" in New York is a Jamaican restaurant. Let's put it like this: when I go to Jamaica, I don't seek a restaurant until I come back!
by
Geoffrey
Dunbar
Patisserie des Ambassades
Senegalese/French café
"Patisserie des Ambassades" in New York has extensive opening hours and prepares dishes & desserts for every time of day. It's refreshingly old-fashioned.
by
Geoffrey
Dunbar
Loeb Boathouse
Central Park
"Loeb Boathouse Restaurant" in New York's Central Park is in the vicinity of the Bethesda Fountain and I think it's best for a warm-weather drink...
by
Geoffrey
Dunbar
1166 Sixth Avenue
Lichenstein & Otterness
In the lobby of 1166 Avenue of the Americas in NYC hang some significant tapestries by Lichtenstein & a large bronze homage to capitalism by Otterness...
by
Geoffrey
Dunbar
Subway Nostalgia
Vintage subway train excursions
The MTA in NYC offers subway "nostalgia rides" during the summer months on old cars from the '30s and '40s. Book your ticket now!
by
Geoffrey
Dunbar
Teranga
Senegalese food at the Africa Center
"Teranga" in New York City, in the Africa Center, is a restaurant as well as a library. It feels musical and maintains a feeling of communal comfort...
by
Geoffrey
Dunbar
S&P Lunch
1928 Lunch Counter
S&P Sandwich Shop, opened in 1928, serves Jewish classics like matzoh ball soup and latkes in a nostalgic setting that feels like stepping back in time. A must-visit!
by
Geoffrey
Dunbar
Dive 75
Quality trivia contests
"Dive 75" in NYC is a noteworthy sports bar for its Tuesday Night Trivia contests. Clientele is also big on board games, and the beer is relatively cheap!
by
Geoffrey
Dunbar
Rubenstein Atrium
Lincoln Center free concerts
"Rubenstein Atrium" in New York's Lincoln Center has a free performance every Thursday night. I recommend you try to arrive around 18:30 to catch a seat.
by
Geoffrey
Dunbar
Heading to New York?
304 Insider Tips from our local Spotters
Authentic Stories by Real People
Escape the Crowd & Travel Slow 🐌
... for just €9.99
Heading to New York?
✓ 0 Insider Tips from our local Spotters
✓ 304 Insider Tips
✓ Escape the Crowds
✓ Find Spots nearby
✓ Authentic Stories
... for just €9.99
City guides by those who know the city in and out!
Our Locals' Favorite New York
Our team loves New York
Get to know our other Spotters from New York
As featured on:
