Welcome to the NBHD

During the 1920s and 1930s, Strivers Row housed numerous musicians, writers, and intellectuals who played crucial roles in shaping both Black art and identity in the city of New York. Today, this neighborhood’s legacy continues to shine as a hub for the arts and holds a strong connection to the community. Nestled just a short walk away is the Black-owned coffee shop NBHD Brûlée. Founded in 2019 by Duane Chane Shue, NBHD Brûlée prides itself on its connection to Harlem, its bold flavors, and being a communal space that reflects the rich history of the neighborhood.

Whether you’re in the mood for a delicious breakfast or a savory lunch, NBHD Brûlée has your hunger needs covered. A must-have beverage is their signature “brûlée” coffee, where the top of the drink is torched, just like the dessert dish creme brûlée. Brûlée represents Harlem for Shue, as the neighborhood is sweet and savory. For breakfast, some selections include smoked salmon bagels and cajun shrimp and grits. Two great savory options for lunch are the cajun shrimp po’ boy and the Cuban reuben. Their menu also includes vegetarian options such as the black bean burger. Shue crafts the menu to be a representation of the flavors of Harlem. Like this neighborhood, NBHD Brûlée’s dishes are full of flavor. They’re proud to serve only the freshest locally sourced ingredients and provide quality service.

Prior to opening NBHD Brûlée, Shue owned his own lighting company. There, he worked on film and television sets with an emphasis on specialty lighting design. Shue eventually began working as an electrician in the Local 52 union and is still a proud member to this day. On set, he saw empty spaces on stages and envisioned how to bring life into them. This skill directly transferred over to the creation of NBHD Brûlée’s interior.

Shue’s experience working on numerous film sets means he knows how to curate a welcoming atmosphere at NBHD Brûlée. His goal for the coffee shop is to blend the past and the present as well as be a representation of the historical significance of Strivers Row. The storefront is located in a beautiful vintage location that shines a spotlight on the old architecture of the neighborhood. Inside, the coffee shop highlights Harlem’s rich history.

Shue expresses his love for the old, nostalgic feel restaurants can have. For instance, the white paint is never white but rather has a worn-in and clean appearance. Even though the coffee shop is newer, it feels as though it’s been a part of the community forever. By highlighting their passion for Harlem’s culture, every visit to this coffee shop is one to remember.

As a Harlem local, Shue understands the importance of fostering community through his coffee shop. He recognized the absence of a communal space within the neighborhood for residents to gather and wanted to change that. The neighborhood is made up of families that have been there for generations and new residents that create a blend of the past and present. Shue wanted to bring the two together to show community members how much they have in common with their fellow neighbors. That’s why NBHD stands for neighborhood.