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Sylvia's Restaurant, established in 1962, has been a cornerstone of Harlem's culinary scene, offering authentic soul food that attracts both locals and celebrities. The menu features a variety of dishes, including fried chicken, ribs, and collard greens. The ambiance is lively, with live music events enhancing the dining experience. While the restaurant has received acclaim for its food and atmosphere, some reviews mention service delays and pricing concerns. Despite these critiques, Sylvia's remains a cherished destination for those seeking a taste of Harlem's rich culinary heritage.

Sylvia's Restaurant: Harlem's Soul Food Icon

Nestled in the heart of Harlem at 328 Malcolm X Boulevard, Sylvia's Restaurant has been a beloved culinary landmark since 1962. Renowned for its generous helpings of authentic Southern comfort food, this iconic eatery offers a vibrant atmosphere that captures the spirit and culture of New York's historic neighborhood. From perfectly seasoned fried chicken and waffles to rich cornbread and soulful sides like collard greens and candied yams, Sylvia's serves up a true taste of soul food that keeps both locals and visitors coming back for more.

Sylvia's is more than just a restaurant — it's a vibrant cultural institution that feels like a warm family gathering. The lively ambiance is often enhanced by live music, including soulful gospel performances on Sundays and energetic shows on Wednesdays, bringing an authentic Harlem vibe to every visit. Friendly and accommodating service complements the delicious cuisine, making guests feel right at home. The walls proudly display photographs of celebrities and politicians who have dined here, underscoring Sylvia's significance as a Harlem landmark.

Sylvia's menu is a celebration of classic soul food dishes prepared with time-honored recipes. Signature items include the famous fried chicken paired with fluffy waffles, crispy fried catfish, tender BBQ beef short ribs, and generous portions of shrimp and grits. Sides like mac-n-cheese, collard greens, and cornbread add comforting layers of flavor. The restaurant also serves refreshing cocktails, iced sweet tea, and lemonade, perfect for complementing any meal. Whether you’re dining in their cozy indoor space or enjoying the outdoor seating, every dish delivers hearty, satisfying flavors.

What are the operating hours of Sylvia's Restaurant?

 Sylvia's operates from 11:00 AM to 8:00 PM Sunday through Tuesday, and 11:00 AM to 10:00 PM Wednesday through Saturday.

 Yes, enjoy live music on Wednesdays and during the Sunday Gospel Brunch, enhancing your dining experience with soulful tunes.

Is there parking available at Sylvia's Restaurant?

 Street parking is available nearby, though availability can vary depending on time and day.

 Reservations are accepted and recommended especially on weekends and holidays to ensure seating.

Does Sylvia's offer takeout or delivery services?

 Yes, convenient takeout and delivery options are available to enjoy their soul food from home.

 is widely loved for its authentic soul food and lively atmosphere. The community deeply appreciates its rich cultural significance in Harlem, with many praising the flavorful dishes and generous portions. While some customers have mentioned occasional service inconsistencies and pricing concerns, the overall sentiment celebrates Sylvia's as a cherished institution that preserves and shares Harlem's culinary heritage with warmth and pride.

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Nestled in the heart of Harlem, Sylvia's Restaurant is a culinary landmark that has been serving generous helpings of Southern comfort food since 1962. This vibrant eatery is not just a place to dine; it's a cultural experience that resonates with the rich history of the neighborhood. As you step inside, the warm ambiance envelops you, with walls adorned with photographs of iconic figures who have graced the establishment over the decades. The aroma of fried chicken and cornbread wafts through the air, beckoning you to indulge in a feast that feels like a home-cooked meal.

Sylvia's is renowned for its **fried chicken and waffles**, a dish that perfectly captures the essence of soul food. The chicken is fried to golden perfection, boasting a crispy exterior that gives way to juicy, tender meat. Paired with fluffy waffles and drizzled with rich syrup, this dish is a must-try for anyone seeking comfort food at its finest. Another standout is the **catfish and grits**, where the catfish is expertly seasoned and fried, served alongside creamy, flavorful grits that make for a delightful combination.

One of the most charming aspects of Sylvia's is its live music, especially on Sundays when gospel tunes fill the air, enhancing the dining experience. The restaurant's commitment to preserving traditional recipes and a family-friendly atmosphere makes it a beloved spot for both locals and visitors. Did you know that Sylvia's has hosted numerous celebrities and politicians over the years? This rich history adds a unique layer to your dining experience, making you feel like part of a larger story.

Situated at 328 Malcolm X Boulevard, Sylvia's is easily accessible and surrounded by the vibrant culture of Harlem. After your meal, take a stroll to nearby attractions such as the Apollo Theater or the Studio Museum in Harlem, both of which offer a glimpse into the rich artistic heritage of the area.

Sylvia's is famous for its Southern comfort food, particularly the fried chicken and waffles.

Visiting Sylvia's offers a unique opportunity to experience authentic soul food in a historic setting, complete with live music and a welcoming atmosphere.

Sylvia's is open for lunch and dinner, with specific hours that can vary, so it's best to check their website or call ahead.

Whether you're a local or a traveler, make sure to stop by Sylvia's Restaurant for a taste of authentic soul food and a slice of Harlem history. Come hungry and leave happy!

Harlem landmark serving generous helpings of Southern comfort food since 1962.

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNfd29lQXNRRRAB&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJb8Xw0wz2wokRXhp1-HSLvkI/reviews/ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNfd29lQXNRRRAB

Great, great, great! What else I can say about this incredible place. We’ve been here many years ago and we came back because we really loved their fried chicken with waffle and their cornbread ❤️❤️. We haven’t been deceived. The food is great, the service is great and the atmosphere is great too. It was Sunday and a singer was singing gospel music 🎵.  We ate fried chicken, but also chicken liver and fried shrimps. All super good. Even the iced sweet tea was great and not too sweet. We took also the lemonade. The very comfort food in New York. Super suggested.

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNmdHA2NWZ3EAE&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJb8Xw0wz2wokRXhp1-HSLvkI/reviews/ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNmdHA2NWZ3EAE

Sylvia's no longer serves breakfast or breakfast food. However, they do have grits and eggs available.  You can place a to-go order or by table service.  Nothing electronic about the process. Traditional take your order table side.  The food was hot and fresh! They bring warm cornbread and butter to the table. I enjoyed fried catfish, grits, and eggs.  My niece had the shrimp and grits.  The grits were flavorful and creamy, and the shrimp were huge! Nice portions of catfish and the fish were fried to perfection! The menu is soul food, and the atmosphere is nostalgic Harlem family vibe.  I enjoyed my experience.

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSURYc1BEOEhREAE&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJb8Xw0wz2wokRXhp1-HSLvkI/reviews/ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSURYc1BEOEhREAE

I had to pay a visit to this Harlem’s institution! Sylvia’s has been an iconic landmark for more than 60 years now.
I had the pleasure to go there for lunch with friends a few days ago and to indulge in a true Southern classic: fried chicken and waffles. The crispy, golden-brown chicken was perfectly seasoned, with just the right amount of crunch and juiciness in each bite. Paired with the fluffy, buttery waffle, it was a delightful balance of savory and sweet.
The chicken’s flavor stood out—comforting, with a touch of spice that complemented the rich syrup drizzled over the waffles. The combination is a simple yet satisfying dish that captures the essence of soul food. The warm, welcoming atmosphere at Sylvia’s adds to the overall experience, making it feel like you’re at a family gathering. You can find pics with all the most important people, politicians and celebrities from the past several decades on the walls.
Service is extremely good and efficient and ready to give you informations about the place at any time. We had to wait to be seated but the guy in charge of leading us to our table was so kind and accommodating!
For anyone seeking an authentic Harlem dining experience, Sylvia’s delivers on tradition and flavor. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, this spot is a must for anyone craving a taste of soul.

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNmLS02dVdBEAE&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJb8Xw0wz2wokRXhp1-HSLvkI/reviews/ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNmLS02dVdBEAE

I have been hearing about this place my whole life. Finally made it to Harlem so I had to try it out. They did not disappoint. A Reservation was helpful, they also have a to-go window.  I had to get black eyed peas for New Years day I'm thankful for that. The food was great and my chicken was fried to perfection.

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSURIeGFpZURnEAE&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJb8Xw0wz2wokRXhp1-HSLvkI/reviews/ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSURIeGFpZURnEAE

Harlem first timers, let me introduce you to Silvia’s. Chances are, you may have already heard of them because so many people have eaten there. Their brand of soul food deserves special recognition because the family behind the business adhere to traditional recipes and deliver that finger-licking goodness day in, day out.

We had a delightful dinner experience: sitting in the back corner of the outdoor dining area, looking across a lively turnout of dinner guests while enjoying our delicious Catfish Fingers, Cornbread, and colourful cocktails. The staff were friendly, and the food was good.

For mains, it was difficult for us to look past the classics: we had the BBQ Beef Short Ribs and Down Home Fried Chicken. Both worked well with our selection of side dishes. The Mac-n-Cheese and Collard Greens dampens the sauciness of the Beef Short Ribs. The Candied Yams and String Beans balances out the crunchiness of the Fried Chicken. Sylvia’s signature hot sauce was also a bit of fun to have on the side.

Before leaving, we made sure to walk around to check out the many photographs hanging around the restaurant. Sylvia’s is really a lot more than just a restaurant. It’s a museum. Overall, a must visit when in this neighbourhood.

Experience Authentic Soul Food at Sylvia's Restaurant, Harlem

Founded in 1962 by Sylvia Woods, Sylvia's Restaurant has been serving authentic soul food in Harlem for over five decades. The restaurant has expanded over the years and has become a cultural landmark, attracting both locals and celebrities.

Sylvia's Restaurant: A Harlem Soul Food Legacy 

Nestled in the heart of Harlem at 328 Malcolm X Boulevard, Sylvia's Restaurant stands as a beacon of authentic Southern comfort food and cultural heritage. Since its founding in 1962 by Sylvia Woods, this iconic establishment has welcomed generations of diners eager to experience the rich flavors and warm hospitality that define true soul food. 

Sylvia Woods opened the doors of Sylvia's Restaurant in 1962, at a time when Harlem was blossoming as a cultural and artistic hub. Her vision was simple yet powerful: to bring the soulful flavors of Southern cuisine to the bustling streets of New York City. The restaurant quickly became a beloved gathering spot, offering generous helpings of fried chicken, waffles, cornbread, and other classic dishes that comforted both body and soul.

Over the decades, Sylvia's evolved from a local favorite into a Harlem institution, attracting not just residents but also celebrities and food enthusiasts from around the world. Sylvia Woods' dedication to traditional recipes and genuine hospitality created an atmosphere reminiscent of a family reunion — warm, welcoming, and full of soulful music and stories. 

 Sylvia Woods opens Sylvia's Restaurant in Harlem, establishing a soul food haven.

 Following Sylvia Woods' passing, her children and grandchildren continue her legacy, managing the restaurant with the same passion.

 Sylvia's earns the prestigious America's Classics award from the James Beard Foundation, highlighting its cultural and culinary significance.

Today, Sylvia's is much more than a restaurant — it's a living museum showcasing Harlem's rich history through walls adorned with photos of legendary politicians, celebrities, and cultural icons who have dined here. The menu stays true to its roots with soul food staples crafted from time-honored recipes. Visitors can enjoy live gospel music that sets a vibrant mood, reinforcing the community spirit that Sylvia Woods cultivated from day one.

Sylvia's Restaurant offers an unforgettable taste of Harlem's soul and history, serving up delicious meals that are a tribute to tradition, family, and community.

Dine In

Takeout

Delivery

Restroom

Live Music

Outdoor Seating

Good for Groups

Good for Children

Serves Breakfast

Serves Lunch

Serves Dinner

Serves Dessert

Serves Beer

Serves Wine

Serves Cocktails

Harlem landmark serving generous helpings of Southern comfort food since 1962. A culinary gem at 328 Malcolm X Boulevard, Sylvia's offers a warm atmosphere and a menu filled with traditional Southern dishes, making it a must-visit for locals and travelers alike.

Sylvia's Restaurant

Harlem landmark serving generous helpings of Southern comfort food since 1962. A culinary gem at 328 Malcolm X Boulevard, Sylvia's offers a warm atmosphere and a menu filled with traditional Southern cuisine, including fried chicken and waffles, collard greens, and sweet potato pie.

Authentic soul food offerings including starters, main courses, desserts, and beverages.

Coconut Shrimp

Sylvia's Sassy Wings

Catfish Fingers

Soulful Chicken Fingers

Salmon Cake Bites

Chicken Livers

Mixed Greens Salad

Veggie Platter

Stewed Chicken and Dumplings

Meat Loaf

Oxtails

Stewed Turkey Wings

Sylvia's World Famous Bar-B-Que Ribs

Grilled Herbal Chicken Breast

Oven Baked Half Chicken

Sylvia's Down Home Fried or Smothered Chicken

Tasty Carolina Style Fried or Grilled Catfish

Catch of the Day

Golden Fried Shrimp or Grilled Shrimp

Grilled Atlantic Bar-B-Que Salmon

Salmon Croquettes

Chicken Livers (Sauteed with Onions and Peppers, Topped with Gravy)

Baked Ham

Bar-B-Que Ribs & Fried Chicken Combo

All White Meat

Golden Fried, Grilled or Smothered Pork Chops

Short Ribs of Beef

Grilled BBQ Short Ribs of Beef

Grilled US Prime Steak

Sylvia's Sassy Angus Burger with Sweet Potato Fries

California Style Waffle and Smothered Chicken

Harlem Style Waffle and Fried Chicken

Collard Greens

Buttered Corn

Garlic Mashed Potatoes

Potato Salad

Okra and Tomato Gumbo

Steamed Rice

String Beans

Black Eyed Peas

Baked Macaroni and Cheese

Lima Beans

Cowpeas and Rice

Candied Yams

Pickled Beets

Strawberry Bread Pudding with Bourbon Sauce

Red Velvet Cake

Double Chocolate Cake

Peach Cobbler

Southern Style Banana Pudding

Sweet Potato Pie

Chocolate Cake

Coconut Cake

Ice Cream

A La Mode

Sylvia's Restaurant Menu

Nestled in the heart of Harlem at 328 Malcolm X Boulevard, Sylvia's Restaurant offers a rich culinary journey into classic Southern soul food with a modern Harlem twist. Renowned for its warm atmosphere and live gospel music, Sylvia's menu boasts an array of vibrant, comforting dishes that celebrate tradition and flavor in every bite.

Begin your meal with Sylvia's mouthwatering starters, crafted to awaken your palate. The Coconut Shrimp comes with a sweet and sour dipping sauce that perfectly complements the crispy shrimp. For a fiery kick, try Sylvia's Sassy Wings drenched in their signature sassy sauce. The Catfish Fingers and Salmon Cake Bites feature expertly breaded seafood, while the Soulful Chicken Fingers are served with a luscious honey mustard sauce. Don't miss the tender Chicken Livers simmered in savory brown gravy for a taste of true soul.

– Seasoned to perfection, these vibrant greens are a Southern staple.

– Sweet corn enriched with creamy butter for a comforting start.

– Creamy potatoes infused with garlic and butter, a perfect soul food classic.

Sylvia's mains are a celebration of hearty, soulful cooking that has made the restaurant a Harlem landmark since 1962. Dive into the iconic Down Home Fried or Smothered Chicken, seasoned and cooked to crispy, juicy perfection. The Harlem Style Waffle and Fried Chicken offers a delightful balance of savory and sweet, with golden fried chicken paired with fluffy waffles and rich syrup. For BBQ lovers, Sylvia's World Famous Bar-B-Que Ribs and the Bar-B-Que Ribs & Fried Chicken Combo showcase tender pork ribs drenched in sassy sauce.

Seafood enthusiasts will savor the Tasty Carolina Style Fried or Grilled Catfish and the Grilled Atlantic Bar-B-Que Salmon, both seasoned with care and grilled or fried to mouthwatering perfection. Other standout dishes include Oxtails simmered with rich seasonings, Stewed Turkey Wings with cornbread dressing, and the Grilled US Prime Steak, a tender and flavorful option for meat lovers. Vegetarian choices like the Veggie Platter and Mixed Greens Salad provide fresh and wholesome options to complement your meal.

– Classic ground beef seasoned with signature spices.

– Versatile pork chops seasoned with soulful spices and cooked to your liking.

No soul food meal is complete without a sweet finish. Sylvia's dessert selection features traditional Southern favorites that melt in your mouth. Indulge in the Strawberry Bread Pudding with Bourbon Sauce, a rich and fruity delight dripping with warm bourbon flavors. The Red Velvet Cake and Double Chocolate Cake offer moist, decadent cake layers with luscious frostings, perfect for chocolate lovers. Classic Southern staples include the Peach Cobbler, Southern Style Banana Pudding, and Sweet Potato Pie, each bursting with comforting flavors and nostalgia.

For a lighter option, enjoy a scoop of creamy Ice Cream or enhance your dessert with A La Mode, adding a luscious scoop of ice cream to any sweet treat for that perfect finale.

Complement your soulful feast with refreshing beverages like iced sweet tea, perfectly balanced and not too sweet, or homemade lemonade to cool and invigorate your palate. Sylvia's bar serves a curated selection of beers, wines, and crafted cocktails, integrating perfectly with the rich flavors of the cuisine. With live gospel music setting the backdrop on select days, your dining experience transcends the meal, becoming a cherished moment of Harlem's vibrant culture.

Whether you're craving classic fried chicken and waffles, savory oxtails, or soulful sides like mac-n-cheese and candied yams, Sylvia's Restaurant delivers an authentic taste of Southern comfort food that has been a Harlem institution for over six decades.

Savor authentic soul food at Sylvia's Restaurant on Malcolm X Blvd, NYC. Experience rich flavors, vibrant ambiance, and warm hospitality. Visit today!

Experience Authentic Soul Food at Sylvia's Restaurant, Harlem

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