TLDR
Authentic Ghanaian kitchen in Harlem serving soul-warming soups, incredible jollof, and traditional swallows. A highly-rated, casual gem perfect for those seeking deep, traditional West African flavors.
Instagram Posts References
Accra Express is a highly-rated West African and Ghanaian restaurant located in Harlem, Manhattan, recognized by the New York Times Top 100. The establishment provides a welcoming atmosphere, exemplified by staff offering samples to first-time visitors. Noteworthy dishes include the super savory and nutty palm nut soup with fried fish, and the milder, thicker egusi with mixed meat. Their jollof rice, described as incredible with immense flavor, is particularly recommended when paired with the rich chicken stew. The restaurant also serves fufu, a mild-flavored, doughy staple with a texture likened to gnocchi, meant to be eaten with stews. For beverages, they offer Sorrel, a sweet, tart, and herbaceous hibiscus-based drink. Diners are provided with water buckets for rinsing hands before and after meals, as eating with hands is customary for certain dishes.
Details
Located in the heart of Harlem, this celebrated Ghanaian spot is a must-visit for authentic West African flavors, having earned a place on the New York Times list of top city restaurants [1]. Diners can explore a menu rich in traditional staples, from complex, savory soups to expertly prepared rice dishes [2], [4]. The casual atmosphere is enhanced by welcoming service, where staff are known to offer samples to those new to the cuisine [4].
Food Overview
This restaurant specializes in Ghanaian and West African cuisine, featuring standout dishes like viscous soups, thick egusi with mixed meat, and incredible jollof rice [2], [4]. Guests can also enjoy fufu, a traditional doughy staple, alongside refreshing hibiscus-based sorrel, with many highlighting the savory depth of their palm nut soup [4].
Highlights / Recommended
"Highly recommended items include the savory palm nut soup with fried fish and the flavorful jollof rice paired with rich chicken stew [4]."
Caveats
Diners should be prepared for a traditional experience, as eating with hands is customary for certain dishes, though the restaurant provides water buckets for rinsing [4].
Reddit Opinions & Reviews
Top Reddit Posts About ACCRA RESTAURANT EXPRESS
Recent Reddit Mentions
From post: Bestgood Places To Eat Around 125th In Harlem
"Accra Express is mentioned as a potential dining spot in East Harlem."
PositiveFrom post: Whats The Best West African Peanut Soup In
"Accra Express in Harlem is listed as a potential place to find West African peanut soup."
NeutralFrom post: Nytimes The 100 Best Restaurants In Nyc 11100
"This is one of many restaurants listed by the commenter from the NYTimes list."
Neutral