Bedstuy’s newest hangout spot is celebrating the rich cultures inhabiting the neighborhood.
Taking you on a tour of Africa, to Asia, and even making stops in the Caribbean, Tree House BK is mashing together flavors they love and representative of their neighborhood.
According to co-owner Bintou Ndaw, “It’s really about community.”
Ndaw, who is Senegalese and lead chef at Tree House, is a resident of Bedstuy like the other two owners, who believed their community needed a new place to come and call home away from home.
“My partners and I are from Bedstuy, we all live a few blocks away. We really want people to come out and do their baby showers, we’ve done a lot of birthdays already,” she explained.
Officially opening their doors a month ago, Tree House’s eclectic menu includes Jerk Pork, Djollof Rice, Fierce Tiger Shrimp, and includes fresh vegetables courtesy of local gardens.
“There are people who have never had yucca, and some people have never heard of djollof rice. It’s bar-bistro food so you can mix and match, have the classic bar food like wings but all with a twist,” she explained.
Inspired by the bar’s surroundings, Tree House was named in part by the tree growing in the backyard.
“We have a beautiful backyard, that’s why we call it Tree House and also like a tree, we’re willing to grow. We’re really close to our roots and want to grow with the people around,” she said.
Working with the surrounding businesses is important to Ndaw who mentions the neighboring black-owned businesses within a two-block radius of them.
Forming partnerships with House of Art, an African American art gallery, hosting after parties for their openings as well as partnering with the East New York Farm that work with youth in their community, teaching them urban farming and sustainability.
“We just all work together and support each other,” she explained. “This area didn’t have anything until last year. We have this little block where you have the Doll House, House of Art, a wine shop — this little cluster in the neighborhood works together.”
Heading into the New Year, Ndaw and her partners hope to solidify their community ties and continue blending the rich cultures in their neighborhood under one roof.
“We want to have different kinds of music, reggae one day, African music another day, a soul night, really just trying not to be a club or lounge but a place where you feel comfortable and can blend our culture,” she said.
Tree House BK is located on Marcus Garvey Boulevard between Macon and Halsey streets.
