Little Bangladesh in the Bronx
Parkchester was completed in 1941 as the largest residential development in the country — 12,272 apartments spread across 129 acres, designed by Shreve, Lamb & Harmon, the same firm behind the Empire State Building. Originally built exclusively for white families, the complex featured 171 red brick buildings, over 500,000 square feet of commercial space, a 2,000-seat movie theater, and the first Macy's branch outside of Manhattan. It was, in its time, a city within a city.
Beginning in the early 1990s, Bangladeshi immigrants arrived in the Bronx through the diversity visa lottery program and steadily made Parkchester their home. By the 2000s, Bangladeshi-owned businesses on Starling Avenue had grown 500% in a single decade. In 2008, the NYC City Council officially renamed a stretch of Starling Avenue between Castle Hill Avenue and Unionport Road as "Bangla Bazaar" under Local Law 2008/48 — a recognition of the thriving commercial corridor built by the community.
Today, Bangladeshis are the fastest-growing immigrant group among the top ten foreign-born groups in New York City — up 92% since 2000 — and now make up roughly 10% of Parkchester's population. The neighborhood is home to six mosques, including Parkchester Islamic Center, a former Young Israel of Parkchester synagogue repurposed in 2015. Founded in 2011, Bangla Bazar Business Association unites over 100 local merchants to strengthen businesses, advocate for the neighborhood, and promote Bangla Bazar as a destination for authentic Bangladeshi culture, food, and commerce.
Parkchester — A City Within a City
Built in 1941 by Metropolitan Life, these 171 iconic red brick buildings once housed the largest planned residential community in America. Today, the same tree-lined avenues and commercial corridors pulse with Bengali storefronts, halal groceries, and the aromas of biriyani and chai — a living testament to immigrant reinvention.
A Cultural Destination
In 2008, the NYC City Council officially renamed this stretch of Starling Avenue as "Bangla Bazaar" — walk it today and experience the sights, sounds, and flavors of Bangladesh right here in New York City.
Authentic Halal Cuisine
All restaurants in Bangla Bazar serve 100% halal food — it's the standard, not the exception. From Al Aqsa's chicken biryani and Neerob's legendary Bengali dishes (written up in The New York Times) to bakeries, sweets shops, and Halal Chinese spots, Starling Avenue is one of NYC's most authentic halal dining corridors.
Local Shopping
Fresh groceries, seasonal produce, halal meats, fragrant spice blends, traditional clothing, gold and silver jewelry, and everyday essentials — all from Bangladeshi-owned shops and supermarkets that line Starling Avenue and the surrounding blocks.
Community & Culture
Cultural events, Chaand Raat and Eid Mela celebrations, community iftar gatherings, voter engagement drives, backpack giveaways, small business workshops, and year-round programming that bring our neighborhood together.
Our Community Businesses
From halal restaurants and bakeries to pharmacies, banquet halls, and professional services — these are the businesses that make Bangla Bazar thrive. All food businesses serve 100% halal.
Halal
Neerob Restaurant & Halal Chinese
2096 Starling Ave, Bronx, NY 10462
A Bangla Bazar legend. Originally at 2109 Starling Ave, Neerob expanded to Bengali and Chinese cuisine — all halal. Written up in The New York Times. Catering and party hall available. Phone: (718) 918-1234. neerob.com
Halal
Al Aqsa Restaurant
2107 Starling Ave, Bronx, NY 10462
One of Bangla Bazar's most popular destinations for authentic Indian and Bengali cuisine. Al Aqsa is famous for its chicken biryani, kebab platters, and full halal menu — a Starling Avenue landmark serving the community daily. Phone: (718) 904-7061. alaqsarestaurant.com
Golden Palace Banquet Hall
1451 Unionport Rd, Bronx, NY 10462
The go-to venue for community celebrations, weddings, and cultural events in Parkchester. Golden Palace hosts Eid celebrations, the annual Chaad Raat Festival, and private events for the Bangladeshi community. Phone: (718) 822-0090.
Starling Pharmacy
2098 Starling Ave, Bronx, NY 10462
A trusted community pharmacy right on Starling Avenue, serving since 2013. Offering prescription services, free delivery, health consultations, and everyday essentials. Phone: (718) 684-6880. starlingpharmacy.com
Halal
Mannan Bakery & Grill
Bronx, NY (Parkchester area)
Freshly baked Bangladeshi breads, pastries, and grilled specialties. A neighborhood bakery serving the community with traditional flavors and warm hospitality.
Halal
Five Star Kacchi Biryani House
Bronx, NY (Parkchester area)
Authentic kacchi biryani and traditional Bangladeshi cuisine. Halal certified. Full catering for weddings, parties, and community events.
Halal
Hasan Halal Chinese
2062 McGraw Ave, Bronx, NY 10462
Halal Chinese food in the heart of Parkchester. Serving chicken and beef sizzling platters, fried rice, lo mein, and more — all halal. Open daily 11am to 11pm.
Poshora Market
2148 Starling Ave, Bronx, NY 10462
A trusted grocery market on Starling Avenue. Fresh produce, Bangladeshi spices, imported goods, and household essentials for the community.
Halal
Adda
Parkchester, Bronx, NY
A local gathering spot in Bangla Bazar serving Bengali favorites. The name 'Adda' means a relaxed hangout — and that's exactly what this spot offers to the community.
Halal
Premium Sweets & Restaurant
2104 Starling Ave, Bronx, NY 10462
A beloved Parkchester destination for traditional Bangladeshi sweets and full meals. Premium Sweets serves mishti doi, rosogolla, sandesh, and a full halal dinner menu — a taste of Dhaka right on Starling Avenue.
Halal
Ittadi Bazaar Halal Food Market
2111 Starling Ave, Bronx, NY 10462
A bustling grocery store offering fresh produce, halal meats, and imported pantry staples from Bangladesh, India, and Pakistan. Ittadi is a one-stop shop for authentic South Asian groceries in Parkchester. Phone: (347) 621-2214.
Tania Beauty Salon
2099 Starling Ave, Bronx, NY 10462
A community beauty salon offering threading, waxing, facials, hair styling, bridal makeup, and henna tattoos at affordable prices. Tania Beauty is a go-to spot for the women of Bangla Bazar.
Lincoln Driving School
2099 Starling Ave, Bronx, NY 10462
Also known as Asian Driving School, this Bangladeshi-owned driving school provides lessons, 5-hour pre-licensing courses, and road test preparation. Serving the Parkchester community with flexible scheduling.
Padma Salon
1464 Unionport Rd, Bronx, NY 10462
A popular beauty destination in the Parkchester area offering hair styling, cuts, coloring, threading, waxing, and bridal services. Padma Salon serves the diverse community of Bangla Bazar and surrounding neighborhoods.
Halal
Spice Up Sweets & Restaurant
2160 Westchester Ave, Bronx, NY 10462
Serving Bangladeshi and Indian cuisine just steps from Bangla Bazar. Known for their butter chicken, biryani, and an extensive menu of sweets and savory dishes. Delivery available. Phone: (718) 822-8777.
Halal
Bangla Town Supermarket
2161 Starling Ave, Bronx, NY 10462
A Bangladeshi supermarket on Starling Avenue stocking fresh halal meats, produce, spices, and pantry essentials imported from Bangladesh, India, and Pakistan. A go-to grocery stop for the community.
McGraw Pharmacy
2048 McGraw Ave, Bronx, NY 10462
A trusted neighborhood pharmacy in Parkchester providing prescription medications, over-the-counter products, and health consultations. Conveniently located on McGraw Avenue, serving the Bangla Bazar community. Phone: (718) 684-4512.
Parkchester Family Pharmacy
1445 Unionport Rd, Bronx, NY 10462
Serving the community since 2006, Parkchester Family Pharmacy offers prescription medications, free delivery, surgical supplies, and personalized health care. A neighborhood staple near Bangla Bazar. Phone: (347) 851-2688.
Pro Services
Dynamic Tax & Accounting Services
2098 Starling Ave, Bronx, NY 10462
A full-service accounting firm licensed in New York with over 25 years of experience. Offering tax preparation, bookkeeping, payroll, business consulting, and financial planning for individuals and small businesses. Affordable and focused on the community. Phone: (646) 295-3811. dynamicsrv.com
Pro Services
Ahad & Co CPA
2153 Westchester Ave, Suite 200, Bronx, NY 10462
A boutique CPA firm offering premium tax preparation, bookkeeping, payroll processing, financial reporting, and business consulting. Trusted by individuals and small businesses across Parkchester and the Bronx. Phone: (929) 371-9915. ahadandco.com
Pro Services
Zakir CPA, PLLC
2152b Westchester Ave, Bronx, NY 10462
A client-centered accounting firm providing high-quality accounting, tax services, and financial management solutions to small businesses and individuals. Known for innovative tax-saving strategies and personalized service. Phone: (929) 207-1516. zakircpa.com
Pro Services
Bengal Tax & Paralegal Services
2140 Starling Ave, Bronx, NY 10462
A Bronx-based tax and paralegal firm serving the Bangladeshi community with tax preparation, immigration documentation, and legal assistance. Located on Starling Avenue in the heart of Bangla Bazar. Phone: (917) 374-1079.
Pro Services
Standard Express
2156 Starling Ave, Bronx, NY 10462
A trusted money transfer and remittance service catering to Bangladeshi expatriates. Quickly established as a reliable option for sending money back home to Bangladesh. Located on Starling Avenue. Phone: (718) 684-5300.
Pro Services
Dada Home Care
2162 Westchester Ave, Bronx, NY 10462
A Medicaid-approved home care agency offering the CDPAP program, allowing patients to hire family or friends as paid caregivers. Serving the Parkchester community with compassionate, personalized in-home care. Phone: (718) 537-3232. dadahomecare.com
Pro Services
Marks Home Care
721 E Tremont Ave, Bronx, NY 10457
A home care agency providing compassionate, personalized in-home care services across New York. Connecting families with reliable caregivers for daily assistance, personal care, and companionship. Phone: (718) 713-0005. markshhc.com
Pro Services
Bari Home Care
2113 Starling Ave, Suite 201, Bronx, NY 10462
Founded in 2017, Bari Home Care provides short- and long-term supportive services including companionship, personal care, meal preparation, housekeeping, and transportation across NYC boroughs. Located in the heart of Bangla Bazar. Phone: (718) 319-1000.
Nishat Elegance Designs
2060 McGraw Ave, Bronx, NY 10462
A family-owned store specializing in Indian and Bangladeshi designer clothing — sarees, salwar kameez, Eid collections, Islamic wear, and bridal fashion. The only South Asian fashion boutique of its kind in the Parkchester area. Phone: (718) 239-2362. nishatelegance.com
Protidin Fashion
2131 Starling Ave, Bronx, NY 10462
A Bangladeshi fashion store offering borkha, hijab, scarves, sarees, salwar kameez, panjabis, children’s clothing, jewelry, and wedding dresses. Custom tailoring and alteration services available. Phone: (929) 777-9888.
A Timeline of Bangla Bazar
From a mid-century planned community to one of New York City's most vibrant immigrant enclaves — the story of Parkchester and Bangla Bazar.
Parkchester completed by Metropolitan Life — 12,272 apartments across 129 acres, the largest residential development in America. Designed by Shreve, Lamb & Harmon with 171 red brick buildings, a 2,000-seat theater, and NYC's first Macy's branch.
First wave of Bangladeshi immigrants arrives in the Bronx via the diversity visa lottery program, settling around Parkchester and establishing small businesses along Starling Avenue.
Bangladesh Society of NY moves its base from Queens to Parkchester, becoming the Bangladesh Society of the Bronx — a signal of the community's westward shift and growing roots.
NYC City Council officially renames a stretch of Starling Avenue between Castle Hill Avenue and Unionport Road as "Bangla Bazaar" under Local Law 2008/48, recognizing the thriving Bangladeshi commercial corridor.
Bangla Bazar Business Association founded to unite local merchants, advocate for neighborhood improvements, and promote the commercial district as a cultural destination.
Young Israel of Parkchester synagogue is repurposed as Parkchester Islamic Center — a striking example of the neighborhood's evolving identity and interfaith transition.
Over 100 Bangladeshi-owned businesses, six mosques, and a population that is roughly 10% Bangladeshi. Bangla Bazar is one of the most vibrant South Asian commercial corridors in the United States.
Stronger Together
Led by local business owners and community leaders, Bangla Bazar Business Association represents the collective voice of Bangladeshi entrepreneurs in Parkchester.
Events & Faith
Bangla Bazar is more than a shopping district — it is a gathering place for celebration, worship, and community service throughout the year.
Chaand Raat & Events
Every year, the community comes alive for the annual Chaand Raat Festival — the "Night of the Moon" before Eid — with late-night shopping, henna, street food, and live performances. Beyond Chaand Raat, Bangla Bazar hosts Eid Mela celebrations, community backpack giveaways for students, small business workshops, and iftar gatherings during Ramadan that bring hundreds of families together on Starling Avenue.
Faith & Worship
Six mosques now serve the greater Parkchester area. Banglabazar Jame Masjid, located at 1351 Odell Street, has been serving the community since 2008 and is one of the largest Muslim gathering places in the Starling Avenue area. Jame Masjid holds five daily prayers and two Jummah services on Fridays. Parkchester Islamic Center, housed in the former Young Israel of Parkchester synagogue, was repurposed in 2015 — a quiet testament to the neighborhood's changing demographics and shared commitment to faith.
Community Organizations
Bangla Bazar is home to organizations that advocate for, educate, and empower the Bangladeshi community in the Bronx and beyond.
BAFA — Bangladesh Academy of Fine Arts
A women-led, Bronx-based nonprofit (501c3) founded in 2011. BAFA preserves South Asian heritage through dance, music, visual arts, and Bengali literacy programs. Featured on HBO Max's 'Take Out with Lisa Ling.' Open enrollment year-round for students of all ages.
bafausa.org
DRUM — Desis Rising Up & Moving
Founded in 2000, DRUM builds the power of South Asian and Indo-Caribbean low-wage immigrant workers, youth, and families in NYC. With chapters across six neighborhoods, DRUM fights for economic justice, civil rights, and immigrant rights.
drumnyc.org
Banglabazar Jame Masjid
1351 Odell St, Bronx, NY 10462
Serving the community since 2008, Banglabazar Jame Masjid is one of the largest gathering places for Muslim prayers in the Starling Avenue area. Located at 1351 Odell Street, the mosque holds five daily prayers and two Jummah prayers on Fridays. During Eid, worshippers overflow onto the surrounding streets.
banglabazarjamemasjid.orgWhat You'll Find at Bangla Bazar
Over 100 Bangladeshi-owned businesses line Starling Avenue and the surrounding blocks, offering everything from fresh produce to professional services.
Join Bangla Bazar Business Association
Bangladeshi business owners and professionals serving the Parkchester, Bronx area are welcome to register. Membership is free and helps strengthen our community voice.
- Connect with other Bangladeshi business owners in your area
- Have a stronger, united voice with local officials and community partners
- Be included in promotions, events, and marketing for Bangla Bazar
- Share information, resources, and support to help your business grow
- Get help navigating permits, regulations, and business resources
Registration Submitted
Thank you for registering with Bangla Bazar Business Association. We will contact you at the email provided with membership details and information about upcoming meetings.
Contact Us
Have questions about Bangla Bazar or our association? We'd love to hear from you.
Bronx, NY 10462
Starling Avenue, Bronx
"Promoting healthy relationships between businesses and consumers in the North Bronx, and promoting Bangla Bazar / Greater Starling businesses to the New York community."