Sylvia's Restaurant Menu Overview
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.
Starters
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.
- Collard Greens – Seasoned to perfection, these vibrant greens are a Southern staple.
- Buttered Corn – Sweet corn enriched with creamy butter for a comforting start.
- Garlic Mashed Potatoes – Creamy potatoes infused with garlic and butter, a perfect soul food classic.
Main Courses
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.
- Meat Loaf – Classic ground beef seasoned with signature spices.
- Golden Fried, Grilled or Smothered Pork Chops – Versatile pork chops seasoned with soulful spices and cooked to your liking.
Desserts
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.
Drinks and Specials
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.
