Harlem is known for its unforgettable history and a destination spot for soul food. There has been a hospitality movement in Harlem that is showing 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 to tells a story that rice is universal regardless of the community you come from.

Located a short distance from the 2 and 3 train stop of 116th, lies Fieldtrip, and above the threshold of the door is Chef JJ's mantra, which is "Rice is Culture." After entering Fieldtrip, you are greeted by a pleasant and helpful staff while the soundtrack of Harlem plays in the background. When I think of the soundtrack of Harlem, I think of what would be playing on the boombox of a street corner on Lenox. Just image some smooth R&B to classic hip-hop legends playing while ordering from their menu.

Fieldtrip’s menu consists of rice bowls, salads, and popular sides such as crab pockets and Nana's bread. Previous to attending Fieldtrip, I have been 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, no bleaching, no GMOs, and 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 does offer plenty of vegetarian and Gluten-Free options, and they are regularly adding new items to the menu. The newcomers to the list include Seafood Gumbo, Plantain with hot honey, BBQ Brisket Bowl, and my personal favorite is the Fried Fish Bowl. I always pair my rice bowl with their signature Dragonfruit Lemonade - get a large, and thank me later.

At Fieldtrip the team is committed to providing Harlem with healthier and 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.