Harlem's soul food legacy spot since '62. Think legendary fried chicken, mac & cheese, and cornbread that's to die for.
Sylvia's has been a cornerstone of soul food in New York City since 1962, offering beloved dishes like baked mac and cheese, soul-stirring greens, and crispy fried chicken.
A Harlem institution since 1962, this legendary soul food restaurant is renowned for its authentic Southern cuisine. From the crispy fried chicken and flavorful greens to the comforting mac and cheese and sweet cornbread, every dish is a taste of tradition. It's a place where the legacy of Mrs. Woods lives on through delicious, time-honored recipes, making it a must-visit for anyone seeking a true taste of soul.
This restaurant is celebrated for its authentic soul food, with standout dishes including fried chicken, smothered chicken, collard greens, and cornbread. While many rave about the deliciousness of these classics, some suggest the cornbread can be overly sweet, and a few long-time patrons feel the food quality has diminished over time. There are also mentions of potential vegetarian options through sides, but a caution for Muslims to inquire about pork in the collard greens.
"Customers frequently praise the fried chicken and the cornbread, with one user describing the cornbread as 'to die for,' though noting it can be quite sweet. Smothered chicken and greens are also highlighted as delicious."
Customers generally have a positive view of this soul food institution, praising its delicious classic dishes like fried chicken and cornbread. However, some long-time patrons feel the quality and portion sizes have declined, with one commenter calling it a tourist trap.
Important Note
Some long-time patrons feel that the quality and portion sizes have decreased over time, with one commenter referring to it as a 'tourist trap.' Additionally, individuals observing dietary restrictions (e.g., Muslim diners) should inquire about ingredients, specifically regarding pork in dishes like collard greens.
"This user advises against visiting Sylvia's in Harlem, calling it a tourist trap and suggesting better alternatives like Amy Ruth's or Melba's."
Negative"This user reminisces about the older establishments in Harlem like Pan-Pan and M&G diner, which they found better than Sylvia's."
Positive"This user agrees that Sylvia's is a classic institution but not exceptional for soul food itself."
Neutral"This user advises avoiding Sylvia's, stating it's a tourist trap and not the best soul food, although it has historical significance."
Negative"Sylvia's in Harlem is suggested as a place to check out for soul food."
Positive"This user recommends Sylvia's as a soul food restaurant in NYC that serves fried chicken with waffles."
Positive"Sylvia's in Harlem is an institution and worth visiting for its food."
Positive"Sylvia's in Harlem is mentioned as a decent option for traditional Southern food, though it requires travel from Washington Square Park."
Neutral"The author mentions Sylvia's as a famous soul-food restaurant known for fried chicken and sides."
Positive"Sylvia's in Harlem is mentioned as a place to consider for a traditional Southern New Year's meal, with a note that it may not be as good as it once was."
Neutral"This user mentioned that Sylvia's in Harlem is reportedly still taking orders for Thanksgiving meals."
Neutral"This commenter recommended Sylvia's in Harlem as a Manhattan option after noting Mitchell's on Vanderbilt had closed."
Positive"This commenter recommended Sylvia's in Harlem as a Manhattan option after noting Mitchell's on Vanderbilt had closed."
Positive"The user mentioned Sylvia's as a restaurant they've dined at for special occasions, but it was not the specific midtown spot they were trying to recall."
Neutral"While Sylvia's is described as legendary and having outlasted other establishments, the commenter ranks it lower than Melba's and Peaches for pork chops and criticizes Miss Mamies and Amy Ruth's."
Neutral"In response to a mention of Sylvia's, this user expressed strong disagreement."
Negative"This user simply mentioned Sylvia's."
Neutral"Sylvia's is a good place for soul food, unique to the US, with a note about checking for pork in collard greens if Muslim."
Positive"Sylvia's is a good place for soul food, unique to the US, with a note about checking for pork in collard greens if Muslim."
Positive"Sylvia's is recommended for African-American soul food, with a caution for Muslims to check ingredients for pork in collard greens."
Positive
