Buddha Taco Bar Opens In Harlem

HARLEM, NY — An Upper Manhattan restauranteur opened his newest restaurant in the Sugar Hill section of Harlem.

Chef James Lee's Buddha Taco Bar debuted Tuesday at 3628 Broadway, located between West 149th and 150th streets, according to a press release. The new restaurant's menu specializes in Mexican and Korean-inspired dishes and creative cocktails.

"For over a decade, I’ve been lucky to be part of the Uptown community. I’m proud of the reputation we’ve established and am eager for Buddha Taco Bar to contribute to this scene, offering a creative touch on Mexican classics in a fun and casual atmosphere. I’m excited to share this vision with locals and visitors alike, in a neighborhood I love," Lee said.

Lee, who was a contestant on the seventh season of the cooking show "Chopped," was born in South Korea and raised in Toronto.

Here are some highlights from the menu:

• Homemade Habanero, Rioja, Verde and Tequila salsas
• Tacos
  • Fish;
  • Tinga chicken;
  • Kimchi pulled pork;
  • Portobello mushrooms;
• Cocktails
  • Beer List similar to Buddha Beer Bar including special local brews like Other Half;
  • Michelada – Spicy Mexican Beer with lime;
  • Mexican Mule – Anejo Tequila with ginger beer and lime;
  • Oaxaca Old Fashion – Resposado Tequila with agave and bitters.

Photo courtesy Buddha Taco Bar