The country of Senegal is located in West Africa, with a population of over 18 million people. And if you take the 2 train to 116th Street, you’ll find yourself in Harlem’s very own Little Senegal, otherwise known as Petit Senegal.
Petit Senegal, NYC
Harlem’s Little Senegal is focused on 116th Street between Malcolm X Boulevard and Frederick Douglass Boulevard. NYC experienced a heavy influx of immigrants from francophone West African countries, including Senegal, in the 1980s, ultimately creating Little Senegal.
Of course, Little Senegal, just as Senegal the country, has a very heavy French influence due to colonization primarily in the 19th century, so you’ll find plenty of baguettes in the bodegas, French-influence in the restaurants, and maybe even hear a bit of French being spoken.
1. Patisserie Des Ambassades
Head over to Patisserie Des Ambassades for flaky French pastries and Senagalese fare. Though it’s considered a full-scale restaurant, we recommend you go straight the bakery section connected to the main restaurant. Pick up a chocolate croissant and an herbal tea to-go and you’ll be all set. Plus, there’s wonderful outdoor seating in the warmer months.
đź“Ť2200 Frederick Douglass Blvd, New York
2. Pikine
Our personal favorite restaurant in Little Senegal has to be Pikine. Revered for its fantastic Senagalese food, we stopped by to order a version of the country’s national dish: thieboudienne, or how they have it written on the menu, thiebou djeun. We were served a hearty plate of rice, marinated fish and perfectly cooked vegetables. Don’t forget to order some Bissap (a West African Hibiscus drink) with your meal. The simple yet effective interior offers a few tables and booths, as locals continuously come in and out to dine-in or pick-up takeout.
đź“Ť243 W 116th St, New York
3. Malcolm Shabazz Harlem Market
No visit to Little Senegal is complete without perusing through Malcolm Shabazz Harlem Market. Here shoppers can find all sorts of African products and textiles. Whether you’re looking for some new jewelry, woven baskets, or crafty wooden figurines, you’ll find all that your looking for roaming the many shops. It’s open everyday from 10am to 8pm.
đź“Ť52 W 116th St, New York
4. Adja Khady
Adja Khady is the shop to pop in for all your grocery needs. Find imported Senagalese products or a quick snack and definitely don’t forget to grab a baguette on the way out. It also operates as a meat and fish market on the shops right side, so you’ll have everything you need to go home and make a delicious meal.
đź“Ť251 W 116th St, New York