If you walk down Ave A in the East Village in the coming weeks and months, be prepared to encounter irresistible smells of fresh waffles and sizzling crepes.
Entrepreneur Abdulnaser Alzokari is opening Crepe City in the East Village at 199 Ave A. This is his first business, but at just 19 years-old, he’s just getting started.
What Now NY connected with Alzokari to learn more about the concept.
Crepe City will sell bubble tea, crepes, waffles, waffle sticks, ice cream, milkshakes and at a future date mochi and mojitos.
Alzokari, a Yemini entrepreneur, created Crepe City in hopes of being a positive role model within his community. After noticing many immigrants from Yemen felt their only options were to open smoke shops or delis, Alzokari wanted to open a business that he felt was going to make a positive impact on the community and bring people together.
“I want to show my people that instead of harming people with smoke, you can choose your own lane,” Alzokari said. “There are so many opportunities in the U.S. and while it is risky to venture into something new, there is so much potential. I want to use my business as a platform to help others– not just customers needing some change, but also aspiring entrepreneurs.”
Alzokari mentioned his interest in franchising the Crepe City concept. Within two years he hopes to have three or four U.S. stores and aims to have an international location as well.
The dreams for Crepe City are without limits, but the concept found its footing not too long ago.
“I had a crepe for the first time about two months ago,” said Alzokari. “The sweet taste was just amazing, and I knew it was something I wanted to share. Since then, I’ve done a lot of research on the menu items. We are so excited to get things up and running.”
Now, Crepe City is gearing up for their Grand Opening on July 6th. Customers will be able to enjoy Crepe City’s chocolate fountain if they stop by in addition to the brand’s other delectable desserts.
There will be seating inside for about four of five people at a time. Outside there will be a bench outdoors for those wanting to post up and enjoy an ice cream or a waffle.
Crepe City is opening at an ideal time to establish a new favorite summer sweet treat spot for those in the East Village. Follow along Crepe City’s Instagram to keep up with the latest on the Grand Opening slated for July 6.
