NYC's soul food legacy spot, famous for its smothered chicken and sweet cornbread.
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 true legacy spot in NYC, this restaurant has been serving up classic soul food since 1962. Renowned for its comforting dishes like smothered chicken and amazing cornbread, it's a place that honors tradition. While it has received accolades like the James Beard America's Classics Award, some long-time patrons feel it has become a bit too touristy, affecting quality and portions.
This restaurant is a celebrated soul food institution, consistently recommended for its delicious and classic dishes. Highlights include the smothered chicken and cornbread, though some note the cornbread can be quite sweet. While it is praised for its traditional offerings, one comment mentioned a lack of vegetarian options, while another suggested that sides without meat could be a vegetarian choice.
"Highly recommended dishes include the smothered chicken and the cornbread, although the cornbread's sweetness might not appeal to everyone."
Customers generally have a positive sentiment towards the restaurant, praising its delicious soul food and overall great atmosphere. Some feedback suggests it can be a bit touristy, and one long-time patron felt portions and quality have declined.
Important Note
Some long-time patrons feel the restaurant has become too touristy, leading to a decline in portion sizes and food quality.
"The commenter lists Sylvia's as a Harlem spot that tourists might consider."
Neutral"Sylvia's is mentioned as a fallback option for Southern food when other choices are limited."
Neutral"MidnightMuenster, while agreeing NYC generally lacks great potato salad, notes that Sylvia's in Harlem offers a decent version."
Neutral"Sylvia's in Harlem is suggested as an option if the visitor is willing to go to that area."
Neutral"Sylvia's has become a tourist hub, and its portions and quality of food are now considered awful by a long-time patron."
Negative"This commenter believes Sylvia's is better than Amy Ruth's for soul food."
Positive"The commenter suggests Sylvia's as a comfort food place that comes to mind, despite not being familiar with the specific "meat and three" concept."
Positive"Claims Sylvia's has vegetarian options, suggesting choosing sides without meat."
Neutral"Listed as a classic soul food option, but lacking vegetarian options."
Neutral"Recommends Sylvia’s in Harlem for African American / Soul Food."
Positive"Suggests Sylvia’s or a similar spot for comfort food."
Positive"Suggests Sylvia's might sell fried chicken livers, similar to what the original poster is looking for. Advises calling first to confirm they are fried."
Neutral"Tried Sylvia's earlier this year and found the smothered chicken fantastic."
Positive"Suggests Sylvia's in Harlem for a birthday dinner. While acknowledging other places might have better chicken, Sylvia's chicken is delicious, the overall place is great, and the cornbread is amazing (though potentially cake-like for traditionalists)."
Positive"Sylvia's is an NYC legacy spot known for its soul food"
Neutral
