AlwaysInvestigating: Trini-Gul’s Bake ‘n Shark

Arthur Bovino — February 08, 2010

Trini-Gul makes Bake ‘n Shark that has inspired references to renditions in Trinidad (left, Richard’s).

Just before the end of the year, Trini-Gul, the new Trinidadian eatery on Nostrand Ave, got some love for its bake and shark, roti, and doubles. Any place that inspires references to Maracas Beach had to be checked out. So we visited Crown Heights to taste the bake ‘n shark, and to see where Trini-Gul’s doubles might place among the City’s best.

As Bake ‘n Shark goes, there’s nothing like eating it near swaying palm trees as you watch fishermen pull in their catch. Winter in Crown Heights, Maracas Beach. Winter in Crown Heights, Maracas Beach. Nothing will reconcile that, but the staff’s friendliness and the crowd that forms at the counter echo the good vibes and excitement that you’ll find at Richard’s on Maracas.

Trini-Gul does a good job with their Bake ‘n Shark sandwich ($5.00). The bake (bread that’s like a giant savory zeppole) in particular, is wonderful. It would be fantastic even by itself, or with something sweet drizzled on it. The shark is tasty— there are three or four little fried discs about ⅓-inch thick. It is served with four slices of cucumber, a tomato slice, and a drizzle of tamarind and hot sauce. If, as on Maracas Beach, Trini-Gul made their shark to order, and had the other fresh items on Richard’s condiments table (chadon bene, pineapple, lettuce, mango chutney, Thousand Island dressing, and mustard), New Yorkers might learn its name.

 

Conch Roti is a popular special at Trini-Gul.

Trini-Gul’s roti is praise-worthy. The folks there said the conch special has become particularly popular. Conch, curry, potato hunks— very satisfying. Some Mauby or Sorrel Juice to wash it down with, and you’re well on your way.

 

Doubles at Trini-Gul.

As you may recall, the search for New York’s best Doubles last March involved eating doubles from 18 vendors across three boroughs. At the end of the day, the City’s best weren’t the buzzed-about “D” Original A+A, Gloria’s, or A&A, but Bake & Things. Trini-Gul doesn’t topple theirs, but it cracks the Top 10. They’re strong— good beginners’ doubles. The bara is better than Gloria’s #III (they don’t taste of flour), but the channa wasn’t especially hot temperature-wise, and there was little zest—more chutney and spice would have been nice. Trini-Gul’s doubles rank at a very respectable #8.

Time for some Puncheon Rum.

Restaurant: Trini-Gul
Address: 543 Nostrand Ave, Crown Heights, Brooklyn
Hours: Daily, 7am-9pm
Contact: (718) 484-4500