NYCReview
photo credit: David A. Lee
Teranga
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If we had a guide to NYC's Grain Bowl Restaurants That Won't Suck Out Part Of Your Soul, Teranga would top the list. No such guide exists, unfortunately. But take our statement as a sign to ignore most other fast-casual places in favor of this cafe in The Africa Center near the East 110th Street entrance to Central Park.
photo credit: David A. Lee
Teranga’s bowl components range from Nigerian beef suya to Moroccan chermoula and ancient grains eaten all over West Africa. Nothing on the menu costs more than $18, and there are plenty of vegan and gluten-free options. Choose from a curated list of specialty combinations (we put our favorites below), or take the mix-and-match approach and combine protein bases with hearty stewed black eyed peas and okra or spicy-sweet fried kelewele. Whichever path you choose, make sure it includes a heap of Teranga’s jollof rice. It's fiery and herbaceous, and it'll be the true star of your meal. If we used even a quarter of the time we dedicate to thinking about Teranga's jollof, we'd be able to write a children's book or maybe even develop a better personality.
photo credit: David A. Lee
As incredible as the food is, Teranga's communal tables, counter-setup, and cafeteria-looking space make the restaurant a bit too casual for an important dinner or lunch. We love this restaurant for a quick solo meal or a relaxed business meeting uptown. Teranga is also a great place for takeout the next time you’re planning a picnic in Central Park (which happens to be located across the street).
Food Rundown
photo credit: David A. Lee
Suya Super Bowl
Roast Salmon Bowl
photo credit: David A. Lee
Yassa Yassa Grilled Chicken Bowl
photo credit: David A. Lee