12 Best Scandinavian restaurants in Harlem New York City
Discover the unique culinary scene of "Scandinavian restaurants in Harlem NYC." These establishments bring a touch of Northern Europe to the bustling streets of New York City, offering distinctive cuisine that showcases the flavors and traditions of Denmark, Norway, and Sweden. Join us as we explore the delights of these hidden gems in Harlem.
1. Red Rooster Harlem
Known for their famous Rosemary Roasted Chicken

The National Jazz Museum in Harlem is a popular destination for jazz enthusiasts, and after visiting, many tourists choose to stop by a nearby bar. This establishment is known for its Scandinavian cuisine, which offers a unique dining experience for visitors.
The bar provides a cozy atmosphere with a touch of sophistication, making it an ideal spot for visitors to relax and unwind after exploring the museum. In addition to its Scandinavian menu, the bar also features a selection of craft cocktails and beers, providing something for everyone to enjoy. The menu offers a variety of dishes such as herring, salmon, and meatballs, giving visitors a taste of the region's culinary traditions.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Celebrations
- Downtown Spots
2. Rao's
Family-owned Italian restaurant with a long history

Obtaining reservations at this service can be challenging, as it is often reserved for wealthy and famous individuals. Despite the difficulty, the service is prompt and attentive, making for a great experience. The atmosphere is fantastic, adding to the overall cool factor of the establishment.
The service stands out as excellent and a major highlight of the experience. From the moment you arrive to the moment you leave, the staff is attentive and dedicated to providing top-notch service. The atmosphere is equally impressive, making for a memorable and enjoyable experience.
TOPICS
- Italian Cuisine
- High-End
- Downtown Spots
3. Sylvia's
A popular destination for soul food in Harlem since 1962, frequented by celebrities and locals alike

Sylvia's Restaurant, located in Harlem, New York, is widely recognized as a major landmark and the epitome of soul food cuisine. The restaurant has gained a stellar reputation for its delicious and authentic dishes, with chicken and waffles being a standout menu item. In addition to the flavorful chicken and waffles, the collard greens are also a customer favorite, known for their rich taste and perfect level of seasoning. The sweet corn bread is another popular choice, often delivered fresh and hot to customers' tables.
Visitors to Sylvia's Restaurant rave about the taste and quality of the food, remarking on the care and attention that goes into each dish. The atmosphere is cozy and inviting, making it a popular destination for both tourists and locals looking to enjoy a delicious, satisfying meal. With its rich history and dedication to providing high-quality soul food cuisine, Sylvia's Restaurant is a true gem in the heart of Harlem.
TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- American Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Downtown Spots
4. Earl's Beer and Cheese
Known for its unique and delicious beer and cheese pairings

This establishment is a bar that offers a limited food menu to its patrons. The atmosphere is warm and welcoming, featuring several tables specifically for card games. The food served at this bar has received high praise, with customers raving about its great taste and delicious flavors. The menu offers a variety of options such as mac and cheese, salad, sandwiches, soup, and beer cheese.
Despite the positive feedback on the quality of the food, some customers have mentioned that the portions could be larger. Nevertheless, the offerings are filling and provide a satisfying meal to those who visit this bar. Whether you're looking to enjoy a casual meal with friends or engage in a friendly card game, this bar provides a congenial atmosphere that appeals to a wide range of customers.
TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- American Cuisine
- Happy Hours
5. Chez Maty Et Sokhna (Keur Sokhna)
A taste of Senegal in the heart of Harlem

The food at this place is excellent, with a variety of options that are sure to please any palate. Two dinners were ordered and shared, including fried tilapia with vermicelli and lamb dibi with plantains. Both dishes were delicious and it was difficult to decide which was better. The thieboudjienne was also a hit, delivering a savory and well-seasoned flavor in every bite.
6. Le Baobab Gouygui
Unique dining experience with cultural immersion

This restaurant, located in Harlem, is a hidden gem that stands out for its unusual late-night operating hours of 1 AM. The grilled tilapia dish I ordered was delicious and authentically Senegalese. I highly recommend it for a unique dining experience.
The service at the restaurant was efficient, but I felt pressured to finish my meal quickly. This was my first time there, and I was grateful to have a Senegalese friend to guide me through the menu. Despite the rushed atmosphere, the food made a great impression on me.
7. Brunch Harlem
Popular brunch spot with a vibrant and lively atmosphere

The brunch experience was exceptional, with every aspect deserving a perfect score of 10. The food served was absolutely delicious, leaving a memorable impression. Beverages also played a significant role in enhancing the overall experience, as they were fantastic and hard to forget. It is highly recommended to give this brunch place a try.
When it comes to individual food items, the chicken wings stood out and were incredibly tasty. The overall quality of the food was impressive, making it a great choice for a meal. Moreover, the service during brunch was commendable, further elevating the dining experience. In conclusion, this brunch spot is an excellent choice for anyone seeking a delightful culinary experience.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Budget-Friendly Eats
8. Amy Ruth's
A Harlem institution since 1998, offering soul food classics

Delivery times for orders can be unpredictable, with some arriving as expected while others are delayed or contain inaccuracies. This inconsistency in delivery experiences may leave customers feeling frustrated and undervalued.
In terms of the food itself, the restaurant in question has received criticism for its lackluster dishes. Complaints include food that is bland, dry, and lacking in seasoning. Additionally, some customers have expressed dissatisfaction with the prices of certain menu items, which they deem to be overpriced in relation to their quality and portion size. Overall, these negative experiences have the potential to negatively impact the restaurant's reputation and customer loyalty.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Downtown Spots
- Budget-Friendly Eats
- Social Gatherings
9. Silvana
Lively atmosphere with a mix of students and locals

The food at this establishment is highly regarded, with popular dishes such as the falafel plate and various meat options. However, some guests have noted slow service and long wait times, which can be frustrating.
The service at this place is described as slow, but many guests compliment the friendliness of the staff. It's worth noting that a few guests have experienced long wait times and slow service, which can be a downside to an otherwise enjoyable dining experience.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Mid-Range
- Dinner
10. Renaissance Harlem
A fusion of classic and modern design with a Harlem twist

The food at the establishment has received positive reviews, with several guests praising its taste and seasoning. However, there have been some complaints about the quality of the food served to some guests.
In terms of service, the staff has been highly praised by guests for their attentiveness and friendliness. While a few guests have mentioned slow service, it has generally been considered prompt and kind.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Mid-Range
- Downtown Spots
11. Harlemite Peruvian Cuisine

Harlemite Peruvian Cuisine, located on 231 Lenox Ave, is a restaurant that offers a unique dining experience featuring delicious Peruvian dishes. The menu includes options such as fish ceviche, lomo saltado, Pescado a la Chorrillana, and Salmon Grillado. Diners can enjoy their meals in a beautiful setting on the patio, making it a great spot for a relaxing meal.
However, there is room for improvement in the service. Some diners have reported slow or inattentive service, which can detract from the overall dining experience. Despite this, the restaurant has received positive reviews and currently has a 3.9 rating based on 32 customer reviews. Those looking to try Peruvian cuisine in a lovely outdoor setting may want to give Harlemite Peruvian Cuisine a try, keeping in mind that the service may not always meet expectations.
TOPICS
- Asian Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Mid-Range
- Hidden Gems
12. The Row Harlem
High-tech equipment and immersive workouts make for a unique fitness experience

The Row is a popular dining destination located in Harlem, known for its excellent food and drinks. The restaurant is staffed by polite and attentive servers who provide great service, adding to the overall positive experience. The menu offers a wide range of food options at a reasonable price point, making it accessible and enjoyable for a variety of customers.
I recently visited The Row for the first time and was thoroughly impressed. The food was delicious, with a wide range of options to choose from. The staff went above and beyond to provide excellent service, making my father and I feel welcome and well taken care of. The drinks were also a highlight, with a diverse selection that catered to a variety of tastes. I will definitely be returning to The Row in the future and have no hesitation recommending it to others.
TOPICS
- Corporate Events
- Celebrations
- American Cuisine
- Dinner