Asian American and Pacific Islander-Owned Businesses to Support in NYC
May marks Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) Heritage Month, a time to honor the history, culture, and contributions of AAPI communities across the United States. In New York City, AAPI-owned businesses are vital threads in the city’s fabric—offering everything from innovative dining and wellness experiences to neighborhood cafés, fashion brands, and more. Many of these standout spots are just steps away from NYC Ferry landings or easily accessible online, making it easy to celebrate AAPI Heritage Month while supporting these incredible entrepreneurs.
Whether you’re in the mood for handcrafted dumplings, a thoughtful yoga class, or ethically made fashion, this list highlights AAPI-owned businesses to explore all month long—and beyond.
Mimi Cheng’s
Route: Soundview
Landing: Stuyvesant Cove
Founded by sisters Hannah and Marian Cheng, Mimi Cheng’s is known for its Taiwanese-inspired dumplings made with fresh, locally sourced ingredients and a whole lot of love.
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Little Kirin
Route: Soundview
Landing: Stuyvesant Cove
Little Kirin is a locally loved spot serving Asian-inspired eats with a creative twist, offering everything from rice bowls to Korean fried chicken sandwiches.
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One Yoga House
Route: South Brooklyn / East River
Landing: DUMBO
Founded by yoga teacher and entrepreneur Anna Haddad, One Yoga House is a modern yoga, Pilates, and sound meditation studio located in DUMBO, Brooklyn, with seasonal pop-ups in Montauk. The studio offers a variety of thoughtfully curated classes, including dynamic vinyasa flows, restorative yoga, Pilates fusion, and sound meditation sessions.
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Noreetuh
Route: Soundview
Landing: Stuyvesant Cove
Noreetuh is a modern Hawaiian restaurant led by Chef Chung Chow, blending island flavors with fine-dining finesse—think elevated poke, garlic noodles, and sake pairings in a relaxed, stylish setting.
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Bird & Branch
Route: St. George
Landing: Midtown West
This Asian American-owned coffee shop serves responsibly sourced brews with heart, pairing each cup with a mission of community uplift and second chances.
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Takahachi Bakery
Route: St. George
Landing: Battery Park City
Takahachi Bakery offers Japanese-inspired pastries, breads, and sweets—from matcha cream puffs to mochi-filled buns—in a charming downtown storefront.
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Coffee Project New York
Route: Astoria, South Brooklyn, Soundview, Rockaway, East River
Landing: Wall Street / Hunter’s Point South
Owned by Chi Sum Ngai and Kaleena Teoh, Coffee Project NY is more than just a coffee shop—it’s a barista training lab and community hub known for its innovative brews and dedication to ethical sourcing.
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EMME
Location: Online – Made in NY
Founded by two Asian American women, EMME is a modern wellness brand offering gentle, hormone-free emergency contraception with a mission of empowerment and education.
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Kaiyo Omakase
Route: Astoria
Landing: Long Island City
Kaiyo Omakase is a high-end sushi experience offering a seasonal, chef-curated tasting menu rooted in Japanese tradition and crafted with fresh, top-tier ingredients.
From bold flavors and innovative brews to wellness spaces and mission-driven brands, these AAPI-owned businesses represent the heart and creativity of New York City. Whether you’re stepping off the ferry or supporting online, it’s the perfect time to show up for these community-driven businesses during AAPI Heritage Month.
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12 Pell
Route: South Brooklyn
Landing: Corlears Hook
12 Pell is a modern barbershop and lifestyle brand rooted in Chinatown, offering premium grooming services and a curated collection of fashion-forward streetwear and accessories.
