10 Great Places To Eat in Harlem

Since 1998, Amy Ruth's has been serving soul food on West 116th Street and is popular, so be prepared to wait during peak times (particularly on weekends!) Their signature chicken and waffles is truly outstanding. Sides are also great, the macaroni and cheese, cheese grits and collard greens are all delicious. Reservations are available for large parties, making this a popular choice for tour groups.​

Address: 113 West 116th St (Lenox & 7th Aves) | Phone: 212-280-8779

Although the setting is spartan, people make the trek to Charles' to enjoy Charles Gabriel's legendary fried chicken. You can order a la carte or enjoy an all-you-can-eat buffet if you want to sample the range of side dishes as well as chicken. Many people take food to go, so if you order a la carte and want to dine in, let them know.​

Address: 2841 Frederick Douglass Blvd. (151st Street) | Phone: 212-281-1800

Dinosaur Bar-B-Que's Harlem off-shoot (the original location is in Syracuse) offers great barbecue in a fun, friendly atmosphere. The wings are particularly outstanding and the affordable kid's menu makes it a great choice for families. Reservations recommended when visiting during peak times.​

Address: 700 W. 125th St (12th Avenue) | Phone: 212-694-1777

One of the newest additions to the Harlem soul food scene, Red Rooster's chef Marcus Samuelsson has created a Harlem dining destination that is both refined and popular. Reservations are essential if you want to enjoy dinner, which includes seemingly traditional options like fish and grits, jerk chicken but each features a modern twist.​

Address: 310 Lenox Avenue (between 125th and 126th) | Phone: 212-792-9001

Located on Harlem's Restaurant Row, The Five and Diamond opened in space that was formerly a five and dime. The restaurant uses local, organic and seasonal produce in its American cuisine. With happy hour specials, a children's menu and brunch on weekends, there are lots of reasons to dine here.​

Address: 2072 Frederick Douglass Boulevard (112-113th) | Phone: 917-860-4444

With two Harlem locations, folks looking for delicious, affordable soul food in a simple setting won't be disappointed with either of these picks. From short ribs and fried chicken to catfish and ribs, the menu sticks to classic soul food, and all meals start with their popular corn bread.​

Address: 366 West 110th Street (Columbus and Manhattan Aves) | Phone: 212-865-6744
Miss Maude's: Address: 547 Lenox Avenue (137th and 138th Streets)| Phone: 212-690-3100

Probably Harlem's most famous restaurant, Sylvia's has been serving soul food in Harlem since 1962. In addition to serving breakfast, lunch, and dinner, Sylvia's offers a Sunday Gospel menu with live music from 12:30 - 4 p.m. Diners rave about the fried chicken, ribs, macaroni & cheese, candied yams, and collard greens, but be warned that it's a popular stop for groups, so it can be crowded and filled with tourists.

Address: 328 Lenox Ave (126th and 127th Streets) | Phone: 212-996-2669

Need a jolt of caffeine to fuel your Harlem explorations? You can't go wrong with the skillfully prepared coffee drinks and fresh baked goods at the Chipped Cup.​

Address: 3610 Broadway (148th and 149th Streets) | Phone: 212-368-8881

Ramen might not be the first thing you think of eating in Harlem, but if you want something a little different, but still delicious, consider visiting this Morningside ramen joint. Monday through Thursday they even have a great happy hour deal that spans much of the day (except 6:30-9:30 p.m.) with discounted beverages, including $10 Sapporo pitchers.​

Address: 3183 Broadway (125th St. and Tiemann Pl.) | Phone: 646-559-2862

This Morningside Heights restaurant serves an American-eclectic menu with numerous vegetarian-friendly options. Popular with neighborhood residents, they serve local, seasonally inspired cuisine and have communal seating.​

Address: 2893 Broadway (between 112th & 113th Streets) | Phone: 212-665-2800