A Colorful, All-Rice Restaurant You Need To Visit In Harlem

An oft-overlooked ingredient used by cultures across the world is finally getting the recognition it deserves. Acclaimed chef JJ Johnson, of Henry fame, has just unveiled his new fast-casual dining concept where rice takes center stage.

Located in Harlem, FieldTrip is a self-described "community-based dining experience that celebrates culture through the shared experience of rice." The menu is influenced by global flavors and techniques, and focuses on bowls with a base of unbleached, un-enriched, and directly sourced heirloom grains. But this is no basic Dig Inn situation. Carolina Gold Rice is topped with crispy chicken, edamame, and sticky BBQ sauce, while braised beef is paired with Texas Brown Rice, spicy black beans, and turmeric yogurt. 

There are also plenty of vegetarian options, including salads and sides like quinoa bao buns and yucca puffs. And though one wouldn't normally consider all these carbs diet-friendly, don't forget - rice is naturally gluten-free. Even the dessert option, a soft serve rice milk hibiscus raspberry swirl, is considerably healthy (it's totally dairy-free and vegan).

The best part? Nothing, including the rose sangria, costs more than $12. That enough is worth the trip uptown.

FieldTrip, 109 Malcolm X Blvd

[Photo via FieldTrip]