Harlem is known for its unforgettable history and a destination spot for soul food. A hospitality movement in Harlem has shown patrons above 110th that there are more food options than just that. The award-winning Chef JJ Johnson and his equally talented business partner, Chef Sam Davis, are here to show you exactly what that looks like. Fieldtrip is a fast-casual restaurant that tells the story that rice is universal regardless of your community.

Located a short distance from the 2 and 3 train stop at 116th Street, you'll find Fieldtrip. Above the door is Chef JJ's mantra, "Rice is Culture." Once inside, you're greeted by a friendly and helpful staff, while the sounds of Harlem play in the background. When I think of the soundtrack of Harlem, I imagine smooth R&B and classic hip-hop legends playing, just like what you'd hear from a boombox on a street corner on Lenox while ordering from their menu.

Fieldtrip’s menu includes rice bowls, salads, and popular sides such as crab pockets and Nana's bread. Before attending Fieldtrip, I was a follower of Chef JJ's culinary work from his days at The Cecil, his residency at Chef's Club Counter, Hotel Henry, and his cookbook Between Harlem and Heaven. Chef JJ is the reason I have a more mindful outlook on rice, and therefore, it was not a surprise he would have requirements for the rice used at Fieldtrip. Chef JJ and Sam require that the rice have no enrichment, bleaching, or GMOs and be freshly milled if possible. With these requirements, Fieldtrip serves black rice, sticky rice, Texas brown, Carolina gold, and aged basmati rice alongside ethically sourced veggies and proteins.

The Salmon Rice Bowl is one of their most popular bowls and sells out fast, so I recommend dropping in often. The Crispy Chicken Bowl is perfect for a BBQ lover, and the Braised Beef Bowl came highly recommended by the staff for the colder months. Fieldtrip offers plenty of vegetarian and Gluten-Free options, and they regularly add new items to the menu. The newcomers to the list include Seafood Gumbo, Plantain with hot honey, BBQ Brisket Bowl, and my favorite, Fried Fish Bowl. I always pair my rice bowl with their signature Dragonfruit Lemonade - get large, and thank me later.

At Fieldtrip, the team is committed to providing Harlem with healthier and more affordable options, and no bowl is over $12.

Make your next trip a FIELDTRIP!

Check out the photos below to see what else I ordered.

www.fieldtripnyc.com/

109 Malcolm X Blvd, New York, NY 10026

IG: @fieldtripharlem

My dining experience was comped, but this review showcases my own opinions.

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