JJ Johnson's New Harlem Restaurant Gives Rice A Starring Role

HARLEM, NY — Rice is a staple food in cultures spanning the globe, but it's often relegated to a supporting role. At famed chef JJ Johnson's new Harlem restaurant, the local chef aims to elevate the versatile grain and "take guests on an enlightening culinary journey around the globe through rice."

Johnson, the former executive chef of Harlem's The Cecil and Minton’s, opened his new fast-casual restaurant FIELDTRIP on Wednesday. The 1,100 square-foot eatery is located on Lenox Avenue between West 115th and 116th streets and features a menu of rice bowls using a variety of different types of rice including Texas brown rice, China black rice, Carolina gold rice, Jollof Basmati rice and sticky rice.

Diners can choose vegetables and protein options such as beef, shrimp, chicken or salmon to pair with their choice of rice to create a hearty meal. The menu also features a number of side dishes including crab pockets, yucca puffs and quinoa bao buns.

"I’m excited to bring my latest project to my hometown of Harlem. FIELDTRIP is a celebration of rice and its power to connect us as a global community," Johnson said. "We pride ourselves on offering ethically and sustainably sourced produce thoughtfully composed in a bowl jampacked full of flavor and at an affordable price. I welcome all New Yorkers to take a FIELDTRIP uptown and join us for globally inspired dishes served to a Hip-Hop beat!"

None of the restaurant's rice bowls are priced higher than $12, which will make FIELDTRIP a good spot for casual dining. Half-priced options with smaller portions and a juice box are available for kids.

Johnson also partnered with the high-end audio company Klipsch to outfit his new resaurant with a state-of-the-art sound system at FIELDTRIP to enhance the dining experience. The restaurant plans to curate a playlist featuring Harlem artists such as Tito Puente, Cam'ron, Kool Moe Dee, Joe Cuba and Billie Holiday.

FIELDTRIP is open Wednesday through Sunday from 11:30 a.m. to 10 p.m., according to the business' website.