18 most favorite Southern Restaurants in New York City
Southern Restaurants in New York City offer a unique dining experience, transporting patrons to the heart of the American South without leaving the city. These establishments specialize in traditional Southern cuisine, such as fried chicken, collard greens, and corn bread, while creating a warm and inviting atmosphere reminiscent of Southern hospitality. Whether you're a transplant missing home-cooked comfort food or a native New Yorker looking to expand your culinary horizons, Southern Restaurants in New York City provide a taste of the South in the heart of the city.
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- 1. Amy Ruth's
- 2. Jacob Soul Food Restaurant
- 3. Melba's Restaurant
- 4. Soco
- 5. Mitchell's Soul Food
- 6. Spaha Soul
- 7. Taste Of Heaven
- 8. Bobwhite Counter
- 9. Red Rooster Harlem
- 10. Miss Mamie's Spoonbread Too
- 11. Sylvia's
- 12. Charles Pan-Fried Chicken
- 13. SKYLA'S A TASTE OF SOUL AND INTERNATIONAL
- 14. Porchlight
- 15. Cheryl's Global Soul
- 16. Peaches
- 17. Pies 'n' Thighs
- 18. Jacob's Pickles
1. Amy Ruth's
A popular spot for locals and tourists alike, known for its soul food and famous clientele
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Amy Ruth's, a staple of Harlem since 1998, is known for its vibrant murals and delicious fried chicken. The walls of this beloved establishment are adorned with iconic figures such as President Obama, Muhammad Ali, Eddie Murphy, and Whitney Houston, all of whom also lend their names to various menu combinations. However, the main attraction is undoubtedly the fried chicken, which is widely regarded as some of the best in New York City.
Harlem and Amy Ruth's go hand in hand, as this restaurant is a must-visit for anyone seeking authentic Soul Food cuisine. As a southern girl with a taste for hearty meals, I can attest to the deliciousness of the food served here. The portions are generous, making it possible for two people to share a single meal without leaving hungry. Additionally, the prices are quite reasonable given the location and quality of the food, making Amy Ruth's an excellent choice for anyone looking to experience the best of Harlem's culinary scene.
Amy Ruth's, a staple of Harlem since 1998, is known for its vibrant murals and delicious fried chicken. The walls of this beloved establishment are adorned with iconic figures such as President Obama, Muhammad Ali, Eddie Murphy, and Whitney Houston, all of whom also lend their names to various menu combinations. However, the main attraction is undoubtedly the fried chicken, which is widely regarded as some of the best in New York City.
Harlem and Amy Ruth's go hand in hand, as this restaurant is a must-visit for anyone seeking authentic Soul Food cuisine. As a southern girl with a taste for hearty meals, I can attest to the deliciousness of the food served here. The portions are generous, making it possible for two people to share a single meal without leaving hungry. Additionally, the prices are quite reasonable given the location and quality of the food, making Amy Ruth's an excellent choice for anyone looking to experience the best of Harlem's culinary scene.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Downtown Spots
- Budget-Friendly Eats
- Social Gatherings
2. Jacob Soul Food Restaurant
Long-standing family-owned restaurant with a rich history and warm hospitality
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Southern comfort food is served at this establishment, including affordable and delicious options like crispy fried chicken, collard greens prepared with turkey, macaroni and cheese, steamed cabbage, real mashed potatoes, black eye peas, b.b.que pork spare ribs, braised beef short ribs, corn bread, banana pudding, and peach cobbler.
The staff at this establishment are known for their friendly and inviting demeanor. The food is served buffet-style and prepared with care, using only fresh ingredients. Standout dishes include the collard greens, mac and cheese, and corn bread. The restaurant is well-regarded for its comfortable and welcoming atmosphere, making it a place that patrons are eager to return to.
Southern comfort food is served at this establishment, including affordable and delicious options like crispy fried chicken, collard greens prepared with turkey, macaroni and cheese, steamed cabbage, real mashed potatoes, black eye peas, b.b.que pork spare ribs, braised beef short ribs, corn bread, banana pudding, and peach cobbler.
The staff at this establishment are known for their friendly and inviting demeanor. The food is served buffet-style and prepared with care, using only fresh ingredients. Standout dishes include the collard greens, mac and cheese, and corn bread. The restaurant is well-regarded for its comfortable and welcoming atmosphere, making it a place that patrons are eager to return to.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Mid-Range
- Downtown Spots
3. Melba's Restaurant
Known for their delicious pancakes and waffles
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Melba's offers delicious Southern comfort food with unique twists, including their amazing chicken and waffles, yams, and exceptional collard greens. The collard greens are particularly noteworthy, even surpassing some homemade versions.
Melba's offers delicious Southern comfort food with unique twists, including their amazing chicken and waffles, yams, and exceptional collard greens. The collard greens are particularly noteworthy, even surpassing some homemade versions.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Cheap Eats
- Downtown Spots
4. Soco
Offers a unique blend of Latin American and Asian flavors in their food and cocktails
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The restaurant serves excellent food and has very nice bartenders. The atmosphere is inviting and pleasant. The author has visited the restaurant multiple times and has never found any fault. A particularly noteworthy dish is the pecan crusted porkchop, which was delicious and received high praise.
The service at the restaurant is commendable, and the staff is attentive and courteous. The author was extremely satisfied with the way they took care of them. The restaurant's commitment to providing excellent service to its customers is evident, and it adds to the overall positive experience of dining there.
The restaurant serves excellent food and has very nice bartenders. The atmosphere is inviting and pleasant. The author has visited the restaurant multiple times and has never found any fault. A particularly noteworthy dish is the pecan crusted porkchop, which was delicious and received high praise.
The service at the restaurant is commendable, and the staff is attentive and courteous. The author was extremely satisfied with the way they took care of them. The restaurant's commitment to providing excellent service to its customers is evident, and it adds to the overall positive experience of dining there.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Mediterranean Cuisine
- Mid-Range
- Downtown Spots
5. Mitchell's Soul Food
A beloved Brooklyn institution for homemade Southern cuisine
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Mitchell's soul food is fantastic and truly finger lickin' good. The barbecue chicken, in particular, is a must-try, as the sauce is delicious. The staff is wonderful, and the owner takes the time to check on customers, creating a welcoming atmosphere. The prices are also quite reasonable, making it an excellent choice for a meal out.
The southern-style cooking at this establishment is absolutely amazing and transports you to a southern grandparents' home. Every dish tastes perfect, and the customer service is exceptional, with staff providing a homely touch that makes you feel welcome. The southern accent of the staff adds to the overall experience, making you feel like you're being served by your own grandparents. This place is a must-visit for anyone who loves soul food.
Mitchell's soul food is fantastic and truly finger lickin' good. The barbecue chicken, in particular, is a must-try, as the sauce is delicious. The staff is wonderful, and the owner takes the time to check on customers, creating a welcoming atmosphere. The prices are also quite reasonable, making it an excellent choice for a meal out.
The southern-style cooking at this establishment is absolutely amazing and transports you to a southern grandparents' home. Every dish tastes perfect, and the customer service is exceptional, with staff providing a homely touch that makes you feel welcome. The southern accent of the staff adds to the overall experience, making you feel like you're being served by your own grandparents. This place is a must-visit for anyone who loves soul food.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Cheap Eats
- Dinner
6. Spaha Soul
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Chef Artist truly stands out as an artist, based on my personal experience growing up with Soul food. The food and service provided evoked a sense of comfort and relaxation, making me feel right at home. The buttermilk fried chicken was particularly impressive, and the mac n cheese was almost on par with my own recipe.
The offerings at this establishment are described as delicious, with options including cheesy eggs, caprese salad, red velvet waffles/pancakes, and fried chicken. However, some guests have reported issues with the timing and organization of their food delivery, leading to longer-than-expected wait times.
Chef Artist truly stands out as an artist, based on my personal experience growing up with Soul food. The food and service provided evoked a sense of comfort and relaxation, making me feel right at home. The buttermilk fried chicken was particularly impressive, and the mac n cheese was almost on par with my own recipe.
The offerings at this establishment are described as delicious, with options including cheesy eggs, caprese salad, red velvet waffles/pancakes, and fried chicken. However, some guests have reported issues with the timing and organization of their food delivery, leading to longer-than-expected wait times.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Budget-Friendly Eats
- Downtown Spots
7. Taste Of Heaven
Offers vegan and gluten-free options
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The BBQ ribs at this establishment are well-known for their tenderness, as they easily fall off the bone. The flavor of the ribs is also a standout, making for a satisfying meal. In addition to the ribs, the restaurant offers generous portions of various dishes, providing great value for the money.
The food at this location is known for its heat, taste, and seasoning. The BBQ chicken, yams, and mac and cheese are among the most popular dishes. Each dish is carefully prepared with the right amount of spices, resulting in a well-rounded and flavorful meal. The quality of the food and the care taken in its preparation make for a enjoyable dining experience.
The BBQ ribs at this establishment are well-known for their tenderness, as they easily fall off the bone. The flavor of the ribs is also a standout, making for a satisfying meal. In addition to the ribs, the restaurant offers generous portions of various dishes, providing great value for the money.
The food at this location is known for its heat, taste, and seasoning. The BBQ chicken, yams, and mac and cheese are among the most popular dishes. Each dish is carefully prepared with the right amount of spices, resulting in a well-rounded and flavorful meal. The quality of the food and the care taken in its preparation make for a enjoyable dining experience.
TOPICS
- Dietary
- Vegetarian Options
- Budget-Friendly Eats
- Lunch
8. Bobwhite Counter
A hidden gem for game bird lovers in New York City
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Chicken sandwiches are a highly sought-after menu item, with many reviewers praising the spicy and buffalo options in particular. The pork chop sandwich is another popular choice that has received positive feedback. When it comes to the chicken, diners have raved about its quality, with comments praising its quick and hot delivery.
In summary, chicken sandwiches are a standout option on the menu, and the spicy and buffalo varieties are particularly popular. The pork chop sandwich is also a hit. Diners have been impressed with the quality of the chicken, which is served quickly and hot.
Chicken sandwiches are a highly sought-after menu item, with many reviewers praising the spicy and buffalo options in particular. The pork chop sandwich is another popular choice that has received positive feedback. When it comes to the chicken, diners have raved about its quality, with comments praising its quick and hot delivery.
In summary, chicken sandwiches are a standout option on the menu, and the spicy and buffalo varieties are particularly popular. The pork chop sandwich is also a hit. Diners have been impressed with the quality of the chicken, which is served quickly and hot.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Budget-Friendly Eats
9. Red Rooster Harlem
Known for its Southern-style fried chicken and burgers
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Red Rooster Harlem, located in the heart of Harlem, is a restaurant that specializes in comfort food, offering a unique blend of American cuisine and diverse culinary traditions of the neighborhood. It is a must-visit for Southern food lovers, as it features a variety of flavorful dishes that are sure to delight the palate.
The menu includes options such as catfish, jerk salmon, fried chicken, and cornbread, all highly praised for their deliciousness. Vegetarian options are also available. To complete the meal, be sure to try the Black Manhattan cocktail. This unique twist on a classic drink is the perfect way to enhance the dining experience at Red Rooster Harlem.
Red Rooster Harlem, located in the heart of Harlem, is a restaurant that specializes in comfort food, offering a unique blend of American cuisine and diverse culinary traditions of the neighborhood. It is a must-visit for Southern food lovers, as it features a variety of flavorful dishes that are sure to delight the palate.
The menu includes options such as catfish, jerk salmon, fried chicken, and cornbread, all highly praised for their deliciousness. Vegetarian options are also available. To complete the meal, be sure to try the Black Manhattan cocktail. This unique twist on a classic drink is the perfect way to enhance the dining experience at Red Rooster Harlem.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Celebrations
- Downtown Spots
10. Miss Mamie's Spoonbread Too
Long-standing Harlem institution serving up comfort food classics
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The food at this establishment is truly remarkable. The North Carolina BBQ ribs were a standout, with a tender and flavorful meat that was more than satisfactory in portion size. The Mac n cheese and collared greens were excellent accompaniments, providing a well-rounded and delicious meal. The owner, Norma, was a joy to have as our host, adding to the overall positive experience.
This establishment offers exceptional service and food that is truly top-notch. The chicken, in particular, is amazing and not to be missed. The atmosphere is warm and inviting, with a tangible energy that makes it a pleasure to dine there. The employees are attentive and go above and beyond to make sure every guest feels welcomed and well-cared for. It's no wonder that this place is a beloved favorite for many.
The food at this establishment is truly remarkable. The North Carolina BBQ ribs were a standout, with a tender and flavorful meat that was more than satisfactory in portion size. The Mac n cheese and collared greens were excellent accompaniments, providing a well-rounded and delicious meal. The owner, Norma, was a joy to have as our host, adding to the overall positive experience.
This establishment offers exceptional service and food that is truly top-notch. The chicken, in particular, is amazing and not to be missed. The atmosphere is warm and inviting, with a tangible energy that makes it a pleasure to dine there. The employees are attentive and go above and beyond to make sure every guest feels welcomed and well-cared for. It's no wonder that this place is a beloved favorite for many.
TOPICS
- Personal Celebrations
- American Cuisine
11. Sylvia's
A Harlem institution since 1962
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Sylvia's Restaurant, founded in 1962 by Sylvia Woods, is a legendary soulfood cuisine establishment in Harlem, New York. It has become a major landmark attraction in the area, known for offering a wide range of delicious and high-quality soul food dishes. The menu includes popular options such as oven-baked chicken, grilled catfish, garlic mashed potatoes, and baked macaroni and cheese.
As a well-loved establishment, Sylvia's Restaurant is particularly famous for its authentic soul food. The restaurant's reputation has been built on providing customers with mouth-watering meals that embody the rich flavors and warmth of traditional soul food cooking. The welcoming atmosphere and dedication to excellence have made Sylvia's Restaurant a must-visit destination for anyone seeking a taste of the best soul food in Harlem.
Sylvia's Restaurant, founded in 1962 by Sylvia Woods, is a legendary soulfood cuisine establishment in Harlem, New York. It has become a major landmark attraction in the area, known for offering a wide range of delicious and high-quality soul food dishes. The menu includes popular options such as oven-baked chicken, grilled catfish, garlic mashed potatoes, and baked macaroni and cheese.
As a well-loved establishment, Sylvia's Restaurant is particularly famous for its authentic soul food. The restaurant's reputation has been built on providing customers with mouth-watering meals that embody the rich flavors and warmth of traditional soul food cooking. The welcoming atmosphere and dedication to excellence have made Sylvia's Restaurant a must-visit destination for anyone seeking a taste of the best soul food in Harlem.
TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- American Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Downtown Spots
12. Charles Pan-Fried Chicken
Known for their delicious and crispy pan-fried chicken
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Alli's order of Pan-Fried Chicken Family Meal is a testament to southern cooking techniques, which differ from deep-frying and heavier batters used in other restaurants. The meal comes with delicious sides that are tempting, but be mindful of your order to avoid excessive food. Fortunately, the prices are reasonable, making it an excellent option for a satisfying meal.
The Pan-Fried Chicken Family Meal is an exceptional choice for those who appreciate southern food in a big city setting. The chicken is cooked to perfection, and the sides are incredible. However, be cautious of the temptation to order everything on the menu. The affordability of the meal, coupled with the pleasant dining experience, makes it a great option for anyone looking to indulge in some comfort food.
Alli's order of Pan-Fried Chicken Family Meal is a testament to southern cooking techniques, which differ from deep-frying and heavier batters used in other restaurants. The meal comes with delicious sides that are tempting, but be mindful of your order to avoid excessive food. Fortunately, the prices are reasonable, making it an excellent option for a satisfying meal.
The Pan-Fried Chicken Family Meal is an exceptional choice for those who appreciate southern food in a big city setting. The chicken is cooked to perfection, and the sides are incredible. However, be cautious of the temptation to order everything on the menu. The affordability of the meal, coupled with the pleasant dining experience, makes it a great option for anyone looking to indulge in some comfort food.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Budget-Friendly Eats
- Downtown Spots
- Gluten-Free
13. SKYLA'S A TASTE OF SOUL AND INTERNATIONAL
14. Porchlight
Features a rooftop bar with stunning city views
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Porchlight is a trendy and lively bar located in the heart of Chelsea, ideal for a night out with friends. It offers a unique atmosphere that is both vibrant and intimate, making it a perfect spot for social gatherings. The bar is known for its excellent cocktails, which are strong and full of flavor.
Porchlight is a New York-based bar that draws inspiration from the Southern United States, blending hospitality, soul, drink, and food with the city's hustle and innovation. The bar's Southern accent is reflected in its welcoming atmosphere and carefully crafted cocktails, making it a standout destination for anyone looking for a unique drinking experience in the city.
Porchlight is a trendy and lively bar located in the heart of Chelsea, ideal for a night out with friends. It offers a unique atmosphere that is both vibrant and intimate, making it a perfect spot for social gatherings. The bar is known for its excellent cocktails, which are strong and full of flavor.
Porchlight is a New York-based bar that draws inspiration from the Southern United States, blending hospitality, soul, drink, and food with the city's hustle and innovation. The bar's Southern accent is reflected in its welcoming atmosphere and carefully crafted cocktails, making it a standout destination for anyone looking for a unique drinking experience in the city.
TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- Downtown Spots
- Affordable Nightlife
15. Cheryl's Global Soul
A unique fusion of cultures and flavors in every bite
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The food at this establishment is consistently delicious with several standout dishes. The chicken tenders are a popular choice, known for their succulent and juicy flavor. The pancakes are another favorite, praised for their fluffiness. Additionally, the bread pudding is a crowd-pleaser, with its house-made taste and satisfying texture.
This Southern-style restaurant also incorporates global flavors into its menu. One must-try dish is the jerk wings, which feature a perfect blend of spices and heat. Another recommendation is the fried chicken sandwich, which boasts a unique twist on a classic favorite. Overall, the menu offers a variety of options that are sure to satisfy any palate.
The food at this establishment is consistently delicious with several standout dishes. The chicken tenders are a popular choice, known for their succulent and juicy flavor. The pancakes are another favorite, praised for their fluffiness. Additionally, the bread pudding is a crowd-pleaser, with its house-made taste and satisfying texture.
This Southern-style restaurant also incorporates global flavors into its menu. One must-try dish is the jerk wings, which feature a perfect blend of spices and heat. Another recommendation is the fried chicken sandwich, which boasts a unique twist on a classic favorite. Overall, the menu offers a variety of options that are sure to satisfy any palate.
TOPICS
- Asian Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Budget-Friendly Eats
- Social Gatherings
16. Peaches
Offers various types of peaches, including donut peaches and white peaches
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The service at this establishment is a mixed bag, with some reviewers praising it as friendly and helpful, while others find it lacking. The main complaint seems to be the need for more staff to accommodate the large number of visitors.
The food at this establishment is generally well-received by customers, with many commenting on the generous portions and wide variety of options available. However, some reviewers mention that the pasta could have used more seasoning. Despite this, the food is generally considered to be of good quality.
The service at this establishment is a mixed bag, with some reviewers praising it as friendly and helpful, while others find it lacking. The main complaint seems to be the need for more staff to accommodate the large number of visitors.
The food at this establishment is generally well-received by customers, with many commenting on the generous portions and wide variety of options available. However, some reviewers mention that the pasta could have used more seasoning. Despite this, the food is generally considered to be of good quality.
17. Pies 'n' Thighs
Known for their buttermilk biscuits and house-made sauces
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The customer service at this establishment is exceptional, with staff going above and beyond to ensure a positive experience for patrons. This attention to customer satisfaction is greatly appreciated by visitors. The food served here is also a major draw, featuring bold and delicious flavors that leave a lasting impression.
The food at this location is known for its moisture and tastiness, with a wide variety of flavors to suit every palate. The speed and efficiency of the service also receives high praise from customers. From preparation to delivery, the staff works diligently to provide a seamless and enjoyable dining experience.
The customer service at this establishment is exceptional, with staff going above and beyond to ensure a positive experience for patrons. This attention to customer satisfaction is greatly appreciated by visitors. The food served here is also a major draw, featuring bold and delicious flavors that leave a lasting impression.
The food at this location is known for its moisture and tastiness, with a wide variety of flavors to suit every palate. The speed and efficiency of the service also receives high praise from customers. From preparation to delivery, the staff works diligently to provide a seamless and enjoyable dining experience.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Cheap Eats
- Downtown Spots
18. Jacob's Pickles
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Jacob's Pickles can be found in midtown Manhattan, specifically at the Moynihan Train Hall across from Penn Station. Its location makes it a convenient dining option for commuters, people attending events at the Jacob Javits Center, and theatergoers.
At the Moynihan Food Hall, Jacob's Pickles serves up classic Southern comfort foods. Expect to find dishes such as fried chicken, biscuits, and mac and cheese on the menu. The restaurant's offerings are sure to satisfy anyone looking for a taste of the South in the heart of Midtown.
Jacob's Pickles can be found in midtown Manhattan, specifically at the Moynihan Train Hall across from Penn Station. Its location makes it a convenient dining option for commuters, people attending events at the Jacob Javits Center, and theatergoers.
At the Moynihan Food Hall, Jacob's Pickles serves up classic Southern comfort foods. Expect to find dishes such as fried chicken, biscuits, and mac and cheese on the menu. The restaurant's offerings are sure to satisfy anyone looking for a taste of the South in the heart of Midtown.