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Writer's pictureSidney Marie

10 Businesses You Didn't Know Are AAPI-Owned in NYC

Updated: Aug 14, 2023

How many of these AAPI-Owned businesses in NYC have you heard of?


AAPI month may be coming to an end but your support for AAPI-Owned establishments should not. We are highlighting not only our wonderful AAPI community members (new feature every Friday on Instagram), but some of our favorite AAPI-owned businesses.


Editor's Note: This post was originally published in May 2022 and has been updated for accuracy and comprehensiveness.

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Photo Courtesy of Den Social Lounge



1. Den Social Lounge

65 W 36th St, New York, map


The perfect place to take the edge off and have fun with friends. Whether you're here for the somaek or just the good vibes its a great lounge to start any night.


2. 886

26 St Marks Pace, New York, map


This East Village spot with the IG-worthy interior design is not only Taiwanese-owned, it is named after the country's international calling code.


3. Besfren Beauty

165-01 Northern Blvd, Queens, map + more locations


Sephora may have only recently gotten on the K-beauty wave, but Besfren Beauty has been bringing k-beauty to the NYC area since 2016.

4. Extra Butter

125 Orchard St, New York, map + more locations


Extra Butter is a streetwear staple that makes the shopping experience both seamless and entertaining.


5. The Gully [Closed]

2545 Steinway St, Queens, map


The food at this restaurant is as delicious as the space is aesthetically pleasing and the butter chicken is to die for.

6. Kabisera

Canal Street Market, 261-263 Canal St, New York, map


When I tell you this place has the friendliest staff, good vibes, and the best matcha lemonade... you can't go wrong here.


7. Sour Mouse

110 Delancey St, New York, map


There's billiards, beer pong, comedy nights, and so much more entertainment at this one-of-a-kind LES hidden gem.


8. Beat the Bomb

255 Water St, Brooklyn map


This experience, which we'd like to describe as an elevated escape room, is no stranger to the Pop Up Girls pages and that's because we're absolutely in love with it.


9. Multisweet

21-52 44th Dr, Queens, map


Multisweet is a hidden gem in Long Island City that serves delicious treats and is both AAPI and women-owned.


10. Yu and Me Books [Temporarily closed]

44 Mulberry St, New York, map


The first female Asian-American bookstore in NYC is nothing short of spectacular, they are constantly supporting other small businesses and have a stellar book selection.


Ready to uncover the hidden gems of AAPI-owned businesses in NYC? By embracing their stories and services, you're not just exploring the city, but also becoming a part of its diverse tapestry. So even when it's no longer AAPI Heritage Month make sure you're celebrating and supporting the spirit of AAPI entrepreneurship in NYC.


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If you visit any of these places don't forget to tag @popupgirlsnyc for a chance to be feature on our feed!

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