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Uptown Night Market Brings Flavor and Community to Harlem
June 2, 2025, 4:23.22 pm ET

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Photos: Cititour.com

Every Thursday from April through October, Harlem’s 12th Avenue transforms into a buzzing hub of food, music, and community at the Uptown Night Market. Held at the Old Fairways Parking Lot (12th Ave at 131st St), this open-air market runs from 4 to 10 PM and features a rotating lineup of small businesses and food vendors, including Crazy Fire Tacos, Coco Bred, Korn King, DownEast Lobster Rolls and more. The market is proudly family-friendly and alcohol-free, with bag checks and metal detectors in place to keep the space safe and welcoming.

One of our favorites is The Aborrajao, a Colombian street food stand serving things like the Aboragu, braised beef served on a cheese-filled sweet plaintain finished with garlic sauce. There are also vegetarian versions. For meat lovers, there are two stations selling barbacue and ample seaafood to go around. Also, don't pass up of the spice-laced bread pudding at Coco Bred. They also make a mean oxtail sandwich.

More than just a place to eat, Uptown Night Market is a celebration of Harlem’s culture and resilience. With a strong message of unity and respect, the market invites locals and visitors alike to support small businesses and keep the Thursday night tradition alive. Whether you’re craving savory empanadas from Rosie’s or sipping on refreshing aguas frescas, this community-driven event is one of Harlem’s standout weekly happenings.

See our video here.

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