Akara House

- 642 Nostrand Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11216

Introduction / Overview

For New Yorkers searching for a culinary experience that is both authentically global and perfectly suited to a healthy, plant-based lifestyle, look no further than Akara House in Brooklyn. This vibrant establishment is a true neighborhood gem, specializing in Nigerian and West African cuisine with a completely vegetarian and largely vegan focus. Akara House has carved out a unique space in the NYC food scene by centering its menu around Akara, a classic Nigerian street food made from crispy, honey-bean fritters. Unlike many plant-based restaurants that rely on processed meat substitutes, Akara House embraces whole, natural ingredients, offering a fresh, innovative, and deeply flavorful take on traditional African comfort food. It’s a place where authentic culinary traditions meet modern, healthy dining, creating an atmosphere that is casual, welcoming, and perfect for lunch or dinner.

This restaurant is more than just a dining spot; it’s a cultural experience. It is a haven for vegetarians and vegans, and a delightful discovery for anyone looking to explore the rich, bold flavors of West Africa without compromising their dietary preferences. Customers frequently praise Akara House as a spot that is "Fresh. Innovative. Incredible," noting the amazing flavors and textures that combine to create a truly one-of-a-kind meal. The friendly, professional staff, often including the humble and helpful owner, adds to the charm, making visitors feel like part of the community.

Location and Accessibility

Akara House is conveniently situated in the heart of Crown Heights, a bustling and diverse neighborhood in Brooklyn, New York. Its specific address is 642 Nostrand Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11216, USA. This location on Nostrand Avenue makes it easily accessible for locals and those traveling from other boroughs. Crown Heights is well-served by public transportation, providing a simple route to access this exceptional African vegan eatery. For those residing in or around New York, this spot is an ideal destination for authentic flavors. The casual atmosphere is perfect for a quick bite or a relaxed solo dining experience. Furthermore, the restaurant is committed to accessibility, featuring a wheelchair-accessible entrance, ensuring a comfortable experience for all patrons.

The restaurant’s setting is noted for its casual and trendy atmosphere, attracting a diverse crowd, including local New Yorkers and visitors to the area, who often find themselves drawn in by the promise of fresh, made-to-order Nigerian specialties. While there may be limited seating inside—a small bar countertop and a few chairs—there is also outdoor seating available for enjoying your meal when the Brooklyn weather is pleasant. The emphasis on fresh, non-processed ingredients means the staff is often starting preparation early, creating that true taste of homemade quality that is so highly valued by the New York community.

Services Offered

Akara House provides a variety of services designed to meet the dynamic needs of New York diners, whether they are grabbing a quick meal, dining in, or seeking food for a group gathering.

• Delivery: The restaurant offers local delivery up to 5 miles from its Crown Heights location, making it simple to enjoy authentic Nigerian vegan food right at home.
• Takeout and Curbside Pickup: Customers can easily place orders for pickup, with curbside service offered for maximum convenience, ideal for those on a tight schedule.
• Dine-in Seating: A casual setting with seating options, including outdoor seating, is available for patrons who wish to enjoy their lunch or dinner on-site.
• Credit and Debit Card Payments: Akara House accepts major credit and debit cards, ensuring smooth and easy payment processing.
• Catering: The establishment offers bundles and catering options, perfect for small gatherings, events, or office lunches where fresh, flavorful, and healthy food is a priority.
• Accommodations for Children: The atmosphere is casual and is considered good for kids, making it a family-friendly dining option.

Features / Highlights

The menu at Akara House is a testament to the versatility and depth of Nigerian cuisine, cleverly adapted to be completely vegetarian and vegan-friendly without sacrificing flavor. The unique use of Akara, a traditional honey-bean fritter, is the star, replacing typical processed patties with a wholesome, protein and fiber-rich alternative. The highlights of the menu and restaurant experience include:

• The Signature Akara Burgers and Wraps: These are the restaurant's cornerstone. Options like the MADE IN LAGOS BURGER ($13.50) with suya-seasoned plantains and avocado, the LEKKI BURGER ($14.50) with sautéed mushrooms and fresh basil, and the popular AKARA SPINACH WRAP ($15.50) showcase the creative use of the honey bean fritter.
• Authentic Main Dishes: Diners can enjoy classic Nigerian staples such as JOLOFF RICE, MOI MOI & KALE ($22.00)—a flavorful pairing of Nigerian Jollof rice, steamed honey beans (Moi Moi), and a kale salad—and the beloved FUFU & EGUSI ($22.00), featuring spinach, melon seeds, and oyster mushrooms.
• Wholesome and Healthy Ingredients: The menu is built on fresh, whole foods like honey beans, yams, cassava, and plantains, with a commitment to not using Impossible, Beyond Meat, or Soy in the vegetarian and vegan options, appealing to diners seeking cleaner, less-processed meals.
• African & Vegan Specialization: A unique culinary niche in New York, offering a fusion of traditional African flavors and modern vegan preparation, providing a vibrant and hearty dining experience that satisfies both comfort food cravings and healthy eating goals.
• Customer Service Excellence: Reviews often highlight the "kind, so helpful, very professional and humble" owner and staff, creating a warm, welcoming, and community-focused dining environment.

Contact Information

For New Yorkers interested in learning more about Akara House, placing an order, or confirming hours, you can use the following details:

• Address: 642 Nostrand Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11216, USA
• Phone: (929) 610-3732
• Mobile Phone: +1 929-610-3732

What is Worth Choosing

For first-time visitors or seasoned patrons of vegan cuisine in NYC, Akara House offers several must-try dishes that are consistently celebrated for their quality and flavor. Choosing what is "worth it" at Akara House comes down to experiencing the innovative use of traditional Nigerian ingredients. The Akara-based burgers are, without a doubt, a primary draw. The MADE IN LAGOS BURGER ($13.50) is highly recommended for its dynamic combination of the crispy honey bean fritter with sweet, savory, and spicy notes from the suya-seasoned plantains, avocado, and fresh toppings. Though one reviewer found the patty dry, the general consensus is that the creative, flavorful toppings elevate the overall experience, and its popularity rating suggests it's a fan favorite for a reason. Its blend of textures and bold Nigerian flavors makes it a standout choice among the city's vast burger options.

If you are in the mood for an authentic and filling Nigerian meal, the main dishes are a superb choice. The FUFU & EGUSI ($22.00) is frequently listed as a highly-liked item. This traditional dish, featuring a savory stew of spinach, melon seeds, and oyster mushrooms paired with the starchy Fufu, offers deep comfort and flavor. It is an excellent introduction to West African cuisine and a hearty, healthy, plant-based meal. Similarly, the JOLOFF RICE, MOI MOI & KALE ($22.00) provides a plate of delicious plant-based Nigerian Jollof rice alongside steamed honey beans and a refreshing kale salad, offering a complete and well-balanced meal that showcases the staple flavors of Nigeria.

Finally, do not skip the beverages. Customers who tried the Homemade Lemonade Tea ($4.75) found it "refreshing and a bit different," noting its subtly sweet and slightly salty balance—the perfect palate cleanser for the richly spiced African dishes. Akara House is worth choosing for its authentic culinary concept, its commitment to fresh, non-processed, whole-food ingredients, and the opportunity it provides for New Yorkers to savor genuine Nigerian flavors in a healthy, modern format.

Akara House

642 Nostrand Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11216, USA