Is the vibrant tapestry of New York City's culinary scene incomplete without a taste of Somalia? The answer, unequivocally, is no, not anymore, thanks to the burgeoning presence of Somali cuisine, with Safari Restaurant leading the charge as a must-visit destination.
New York City, a global melting pot of flavors, has long celebrated its diverse food scene. From the bustling streets of Chinatown to the aromatic spice routes of Jackson Heights, the city offers a culinary journey around the world. Yet, until recently, a significant culinary voice was largely unheard: the rich, complex, and flavorful cuisine of Somalia. This is changing, and at the forefront of this delicious revolution stands Safari, a restaurant that has not only introduced New Yorkers to the delights of Somali food but has also become a cultural touchstone within the city.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Restaurant Name | Safari |
| Cuisine | Somali |
| Location | Harlem neighborhood, New York, New York |
| Year Opened | May 2015 |
| Notable Dishes | Goat, pasta (akin to carbonara without bacon), sambusa, sabaayad wrap |
| Signature Sauce | BizBaz (zingy, green sauce) |
| Atmosphere | Described as amazingly beautiful, with a new location following a fire |
| Unique Feature | Believed to be the only Somali restaurant in New York City as of 2020. |
| Location in Relation to Immigrant Communities | Located in Le Petit Senegal, home to the highest concentration of West African immigrants in Manhattan. |
| Reference Website | Wikipedia |
Safari, which proudly claims the title of New York's only Somali restaurant, provides not just a meal, but an experience. The provision of utensils, a small detail perhaps, contrasts with the traditional methods of eating, highlighting the restaurant’s accommodation of its diverse clientele. The menu, however, is far from a compromise. The goat, a staple in Somali cuisine, is prepared with a mastery that has won over countless diners. The pasta, described as a flavorful take on carbonara minus the bacon, showcases the Somali ability to blend traditional techniques with creative innovation.
The restaurant's impact extends beyond its culinary achievements. Its location in Harlem, within the area known as Le Petit Senegal, places it in a community rich with West African immigrants. This strategic location adds another layer to its cultural significance. The restaurant serves as a gathering place, a culinary ambassador, and a source of pride for the Somali diaspora.
The story of Safari, and indeed the broader emergence of Somali cuisine in New York, is intertwined with the history of Somali immigration to the United States. As the first African and Islamic immigrants to the United States in the early 20th century, Somalis arrived as sailors from British Somaliland. Mid-century, they began to establish communities, with many eventually finding their way to the United States. The presence of a restaurant like Safari is a testament to their enduring spirit and the increasing recognition of their culture.
Beyond New York, the Somali culinary experience is also making its mark in other parts of the United States. In Stone Mountain, Georgia, the Somali Plaza offers another glimpse into the community’s business ventures and its contribution to the American landscape. Located at 424 N Indian Creek Dr, the plaza provides a space for commerce and community building. It reflects the diverse range of businesses that are flourishing within the Somali diaspora. It is an indicator of the diaspora's growth and integration into the American economy and society.
The reviews of Safari resonate with a sense of discovery and delight. Diners consistently praise the food, the service, and the ambiance. One Google review particularly highlights the lovely intro to Somali food in an amazingly beautiful space, singling out the sambusa and sabaayad wrap as personal favorites, all made even better by the BizBaz sauce. The positive experiences contribute to Safari's growing reputation as a culinary destination.
The affordability of the restaurant further enhances its appeal. It makes Somali cuisine accessible to a broad audience, encouraging more people to try this unique culinary experience. The combination of delicious food, excellent service, and reasonable prices ensures that Safari continues to be a popular choice, with its reputation spreading through word-of-mouth and online reviews.
The emergence of Somali cuisine, spearheaded by establishments like Safari, marks a significant moment in New York City's ongoing culinary evolution. It reflects the city's commitment to diversity and its ever-growing palate. As more people discover the complex flavors, the warm hospitality, and the cultural richness of Somali food, its place in the city's gastronomic landscape is now secure. The future looks promising, with the increasing popularity of Somali food paving the way for new ventures and further exploration of this unique and captivating culinary tradition.
