Food Retail Innovations: New York City

About A2D Business Innovation Travel

A2D Business Innovation Travel is a unique platform that connects businesses with the future of various sectors, including transportation, technology, green housing, and food innovation. From exploring intelligent retail journeys in Europe to hosting conferences at iconic stadiums, A2D offers a plethora of opportunities for leading organizations to familiarize themselves with cutting-edge innovations. Whether it’s an incentive trip to a stunning winery in Spain or a “Bleisure” experience combining content with travel and entertainment, A2D is paving the way for business travel with a twist.

From sandwiches so good they’ve been crowned the world’s best, to seafood dishes that will make you rethink everything you know about Mexican cuisine, NYC is the ultimate playground for food lovers.

But it doesn’t stop there; the city is also a pioneer in culinary innovation, constantly pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in the kitchen.

Get ready to embark on a gastronomic journey as we introduce you to five establishments that are not just serving food, but serving experiences that will tantalize your taste buds and blow your mind.

All'Antico Vinaio

All’Antico Vinaio is not just another sandwich shop; it’s an institution that has crossed oceans to bring its culinary magic to New York City. Known for the La Favolosa sandwich, this eatery has earned the title of “home of the world’s best sandwiches” from Saveur magazine. The La Favolosa sandwich is a culinary masterpiece, combining a variety of flavors and textures that elevate the humble sandwich into a gourmet experience. The New York branch maintains the same quality and authenticity that has made it a sensation in Milan and Florence.

Botbar Coffee

Forget your average barista; Botbar Coffee in Greenpoint, NY, is revolutionizing the coffee game with a two-armed robotic barista. This high-tech marvel can whip up to 50 drinks an hour, from your morning latte to evening cocktails and even bubble tea. By integrating robotics into the beverage service, Botbar Coffee is setting a new standard for efficiency and customization, making it a must-visit spot for those looking to experience the future of retail coffee.

Ensenada

Ensenada isn’t just a seafood restaurant; it’s a culinary laboratory pushing the boundaries of what seafood can be. Described as “one of New York’s most ambitious and innovative seafood restaurants,” Ensenada offers a menu that includes experimental fish tacos and incredible al pastor branzino tacos. The restaurant’s al pastor branzino combines traditional Mexican flavors with modern culinary techniques, offering a seafood experience that is as unique as it is delicious.

Café China

Step into Café China and prepare for a culinary revelation. Their Sea Bass with Rice Peppers and Glass Mung Bean Noodles is more than a dish—it’s an experience that has earned a spot among Eater magazine’s top 15 dishes of 2022. This culinary masterpiece seamlessly blends tradition and innovation, featuring sustainably-sourced sea bass cooked to flaky perfection, harmonizing with the crunch of rice peppers. The glass mung bean noodles are elevated through a unique preparation method, adding a silky texture that completes this gastronomic work of art. Café China isn’t just serving food; they’re offering a glimpse into the future of global gastronomy.

Dept of Culture

Step into Brooklyn’s Dept of Culture for a culinary journey unlike any other. Chef Ayo Balogun offers a sophisticated tasting menu that takes you through the heart of North-Central Nigerian cuisine, all while fostering a unique communal dining experience. With just two induction burners, Balogun crafts fiery peppe r soups and palate-awakening courses that redefine traditional Nigerian fare. This isn’t just fine dining; it’s a high-end New York buka, where diners prepay for a curated four-course dinner. The atmosphere encourages conversation among strangers, making each meal a social event. Balogun aims to elevate regional Nigerian food, challenging the generic labels often associated with African cuisine. This is more than a meal; it’s a culinary and communal revelation.

SMØR Bakery

SMØR Bakery, located in the heart of the East Village, is the brainchild of owner and chef Lena Hansen, who brings her Scandinavian heritage to every dish. This bakery is not merely a place to grab a bite; it’s a culinary destination that offers a genuine slice of Nordic culture. Known for its delectable offerings like loaded focaccia, braided cardamom buns, and an assortment of cheeses, the bakery has gained a loyal following. But the real star of the menu is the signature smørrebrød. Crafted with love and expertise by Lena, the smørrebrød is a game-changer in the world of sandwiches. Using dense, crunchy rye bread as a base, it serves as a canvas for an array of flavorful toppings, from smoked salmon to pickled vegetables, elevating the open-faced sandwich into a culinary art form.

Embrace food retail innovation with A2D Business Innovation Travel. Explore these innovations and more by creating a tailormade program for your team. Connect with start-ups, discover green construction projects, or travel to tech hubs across the world. Elevate your retail game—book your BiT program today!

How it Works

Every Business Innovation Travel program combines the best of our expertise in travel, business and entertainment.

BUSINESS

Site Visits
Meetings
Networking
Brainstorming

TRAVEL

Flights
Hotels
Transfers
Private Charter

ENTERTAINMENT

Restaurants
Activities
Concerts
Events

1. Get in Touch

You start by getting in touch with your idea or topic of interest.

2. Consultation

We will get a deeper understanding of your company's unique needs and requirements.

3. Preparation

We put together a tailored program of business activities, meetings, hotels, flights, meals and entertainment.

4. Travel

All you and your team need to do is show up at the airport: we do the rest!

MORE INNOVATION INSPIRATION

CLUB LOGIN

Login to the A2D Travel Wonders Club below.

Already logged-in?
Click here to go to the Club homepage.

BECOME A MEMBER

‘We believe in building strong, long-term relationships together with our clients through high-quality service and content. That’s why we’ve made our Travel Club invitation-only – it allows us to get to know you as a member better and grow organically, together. We would love to get to know you and your family, so send us a request here

– The A2D World Team

Join Us On Instagram

Come and join us on our new Instagram page for more inspiring and exciting destinations, hotels, events and openings around the world.

instagram.com/@a2d.world

Request an Invitation

Fill in the form below and let us know what type of content you're interested in. We'll get back to you as soon as possible.

Subscribe to The A2D Magazine

Discover a whole world you never knew existed with fresh and creative ideas from each of our 4 brands, thanks to your monthly A2D Magazine. Sign up below to get it straight to your inbox every 3rd Sunday of the month.