How’d you get started in the food social media industry? What led to your account receiving a significant following?
FeedyourheartNYC was launched back in 2018 to document my food adventures during Undergrad with my best friends. The name was chosen because I believe every experience – the food, service, individuals, people you’re with, ambiance – feeds the heart. My focus is Halal food, meat that is hand-slaughtered and permissible for Muslims to consume. When I post from a Non-Halal establishment, it is usually a pescatarian, vegetarian, or vegan dish. I grew my account by posting consistently, improving my photography, and visiting trendy and new restaurants.
Do you have a particular type of cuisine that is your favorite?
That’s a tough one. It depends on the season but I’ll never say no to Mediterranean food. Give me some shawarma, hummus, falafel, and rice and I’m satisfied. Also love Caribbean and Nepali food. Momos are my absolute favorite.
What restaurants in New York do you think are musts for those visiting the city?
Pasta Lovers (142 W 49th St, New York, NY 10019), Gazab (179 Essex St, New York, NY 10002), Balade (208 1st Ave., New York, NY 10009), Top Thai Vintage (55 Carmine St, New York, NY 10014),
What changes have you noted in the New York restaurant industry since the pandemic began?
Restaurants in New York City have taken such a hard hit, which led to future uncertainties and unfortunate closures. However, many restaurants have gotten up stronger than ever. I loved seeing the creativity behind outdoor dining. Take a walk through Koreatown in the city, and you feel like you’re entering a floral escape.
Do you like to cook in your spare time? What’s your favorite dish to make?
My love for cooking was rediscovered during the pandemic as I was working from home. I had a lot of time on my hands. I like to bake more than cook. The Dalgona whipped coffee, banana bread, baked feta pasta trends- participated in all of them. My favorite dish to make is traditional biryani. Nothing compares to my mom’s recipe, and I could follow it step by step and it still won’t be as perfect as hers! Also love making chili, with warm breadsticks. My favorite thing to bake is bread and huge chocolate chip cookies!
What most influenced your love for food? Have you always been a foodie?
I was very picky as a child. Id take all the onions out of my omelette before eating and refused to go near seafood. I believe what influenced my love for food was the people I ate with. I grew up in a Bengali household where my family always held dawats (invitation for feasts.) Food brings people together, and eating with loved ones is priceless. I have watched Masterchef from when it started (2010) to present, which holds a huge influence in me being a foodie as well. I loved seeing the passion that came from the contestants and the judges in the show. I am such a huge fan of Gordon Ramsay and Joe Bastianich. You must have understanding and respect for culinary. Even if you dislike the food, it wont hurt to try new things to extend your palate.
Outside of New York, have you been to any other cities that have wowed you with their food?
I recently went to D.C. and was impressed by the Halal food scene. I enjoyed Turkish food at a Michelin Star restaurant- Ottoman’s Taverna. After my trip I found more Halal food spots through food bloggers in the DMV area. Can’t wait to revisit!
Where should people go in New York if they want to visit a restaurant that is a hidden gem?
Definitely Modoo Chicken and Noodle Bar in Bayside. You can taste the heart in every dish. Their Korean fried chicken wings are the best. Owned by the kindest souls too. Plum NY in the Upper West Side recently opened by two sisters to share their Vietnamese food. I had the meatless options since it’s not Halal, but the food was phenomenal. The vegetarian pho was one of the best I’ve had. There’s also Mumbai Dreams in Nyack, which recently became one of my favorite restaurants. It’s a drive up from the city and you can hike at parks around the area before or after you eat. It isn’t your typical Indian restaurant, rather a very elevated one with innovative dishes.
What do you love most about your experience being a food blogger/content creator?
My account is a pocket of peace for me. I have a platform to share my love of photography and food with everyone. It’s the best of both worlds. I also get to connect with restaurant owners, small business owners, and staff who work hard and deserve so much appreciation. Everyone has a story to tell and there’s always something new to learn. I love hearing their inspiring stories on how the venture started, and the ideas behind the created dishes. I’ve met such amazing fellow bloggers as well. We support one another, and share opportunities because we want each other to win. That’s how you succeed and get far.
How has being a food influencer changed your relationship with New York City?
If anything, I learned to appreciate my city more. I recognize the diligence it takes to run a business in this busy city. New Yorkers are tough, we fall 7 times and get back up 8. I’ve lived here my whole life, but there’s still much to explore. Every discovery becomes a moment of growth and reflection. New York City has advanced in the Halal food scene. Years ago, we only had the Halal food trucks, a reason why the word “Halal food” has been synonymous with lamb and chicken over rice. But now we have so much more. It doesn’t just end with Halal burgers and pizza. Now we have Halal Pho, Halal Korean BBQ, Halal Birria. I’m excited to see more!
