Unexpected Fusion, Unforgettable Flavor.
“Bananas in the East Village combines Asian American flavors with New Orleans classics, offering innovative dishes such as NOLA barbecue octopus and shrimp etouffee with shrimp wontons.”
A Statement Beyond Cuisine.
"Bananas isn’t just a restaurant, it’s a statement. The team behind it blends American favorites with Asian flavors, offering bold dishes like Shrimp Wonton Étouffée and Char Siu Fried Banana. It’s about embracing complexity with a fun and unapologetic twist."
Anything But Ordinary.
"Bananas: A new restaurant that's anything but ordinary. Bananas is more than just a playful name—it’s a statement. The restaurant is the brainchild of executive chef Kyaw Lwin and managing partner Chris Ng, two industry veterans who set out to redefine Asian cuisine in the American dining landscape. Their inventive menu blends traditional flavors with bold new twists, creating an unforgettable experience."
New, Enticing, And Different Asian Dining Experiences In New York.
“The one they decided on has elements that are playful both in the setting and on the menu. Visually, bananas make an appearance in the fanciful banana leaf wallpaper, banana charms at the entry and banana inspired animals at the bathroom entry.”
Bananas is ultimately a good time.
"Bright and colorful enough for a casual catch-up in front, the restaurant is darker and more date-worthy in the back."
Inventive Fusion, Unforgettable Experience.
“Bananas is a project that showcases the complexities and nuances of Asian cuisine — and identity — in the American landscape. Each of the dishes highlights the commonalities among Asian and non-Asian cuisines in inventive ways.”
A Bold Fusion of Flavors in the East Village.
“Bananas combines American and Asian influences in unexpected ways, offering standout dishes like Shrimp Wonton Étouffée. Though not every combination hits the mark, the restaurant delivers a fun, flavorful experience, especially with its creative takes on classic dishes.”
This place on 1st Avenue is going to be Bananas – EV GRIEVE
The Hit List: New NYC Restaurants To Try Right Now – THE INFATUATION
NYC's Most Exciting Fall Openings – THE INFATUATION
New Asian American Restaurant Featuring Playful and Inventive Dishes – WHAT NOW
Asian American restaurant Bananas opens in the East Village – THE BUSINESS JOURNAL
All the best new New York restaurant and bar openings in January – TIME OUT
February 2025 – Total Food Service Digital Issue –TOTAL FOOD