10 Businesses You Didn't Know Are AAPI-Owned in NYC
- Sidney Marie
- May 27, 2022
- 3 min read
Updated: May 13
How many of these AAPI-Owned businesses in NYC have you tried?
Editor's Note: This post was originally published in May 2022 and has been updated for accuracy and comprehensiveness. Earlier versions included: The Gully and Kabisera (which have since closed), and Den Social.
New York City is packed with iconic spots—but behind the scenes, many of your favorite hangouts, eateries, and boutiques are powered by Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) entrepreneurs. From hidden gems to household names, here are 10 AAPI-owned businesses you probably didn’t know were making waves in the city that never sleeps.
1. Lanterne Candle Lab
69 Mulberry St, New York, map
At this Chinatown candle bar, you can pour your own custom scent while supporting a woman-owned business focused on self-care. This spot has the Pop Up Girls stamp of approval and was featured in our Non Boring Sh*t to Do in NYC series.
2. 886
26 St Marks Pl, 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, Flushing, Queens, map + 1 more location
Part beauty shop, part Korean skincare heaven—this K-beauty destination blends Seoul trends with NYC edge, founded by the team behind Besfren Café.
4. Extra Butter
125 Orchard St, New York, map + 1 more location
This high-concept sneaker boutique and streetwear hub is AAPI-owned and known for its movie-themed drops, creative collabs, and overall cool aesthetic.
5. Monster DIY
136-91 37th Ave, Flushing, Queens, map
This creative space in Flushing lets you design your own custom phone cases, keychains, and more. It's perfect for a crafty hang or friend date and also Pop Up Girls approved.
6. Bananas
174 1st Ave, New York, map
This East Village restaurant, might be the newest edition to the block but it's already making quite the impression. Their dishes have been approved by even the pickiest of the Pop Up Girls.
7. Sour Mouse
110 Delancey St, New York 174 1st Ave, map
Founded by a Chinese-American entrepreneur, this artsy, underground game hall has ping pong, pool, and graffiti walls—plus DJ nights and a solid bar.
8. Beat the Bomb
255 Water St, Brooklyn, map
This immersive, tech-fueled escape room experience is a fan-favorite among the Pop Up Girls team and also a Non Boring Sh*t Series alum.
9. Multisweet
4332 22nd St 103B (Basement), Long Island City, Queens, map
Multisweet is a hidden gem in Long Island City that serves delicious treats and is both AAPI and woman-owned.
10. Yu and Me Books
44 Mulberry St, New York, map
The first female Asian American-owned bookstore in NYC, Yu and Me Books is nothing short of spectacular. With a cozy vibe and a powerful mission, they center immigrant voices, support other small businesses, and offer a thoughtfully curated book selection. While you visit we highly recommend picking up "Dear New York, I Love You: An Artist's Celebration of the City" by Ria Sim, also know as @coffeecakescafe on Instagram.
Ready to uncover the hidden gems behind NYC’s vibrant culture? From pouring candles at Lanterne Candle Lab to customizing cases at Monster DIY or gaming it up at Sour Mouse, supporting AAPI-owned businesses means experiencing the city in a deeper, more meaningful way. And while AAPI Heritage Month is one moment to celebrate, the spirit of AAPI entrepreneurship—from bookstore shelves to escape rooms—deserves our support all year long.
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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!
