Sylvia's Restaurant

Sylvia's Restaurant at 328 Malcolm X Boulevard in Harlem, New York City, has served Southern soul food since 1962 and is among the best-known restaurants in the neighbourhood. It was founded by Sylvia Woods, and the family-run business became a Harlem landmark, drawing residents, politicians and visitors from across the United States and abroad. The cuisine is classic Southern soul food: fried chicken, smothered chicken, ribs, catfish, and sides such as collard greens, candied yams and macaroni and cheese. Signature dishes named on the menu include smothered chicken, fried chicken and waffles, and the pairing of collard greens with mac and cheese. The cooking follows home-style tradition rather than a chef's modern reinterpretation, so portions are generous and flavours are rich and familiar. The dining room is warm, busy and casual, with a large main room and a friendly, conversational noise level. There is no strict dress code, though many diners dress up a little for Sunday brunch, which is the restaurant's most famous occasion. The Sunday gospel brunch pairs a buffet-style or plated spread with live gospel singing and is popular with tour groups as well as local families, so it is the noisiest and most crowded service. Lunch and dinner are calmer, and prices are in the $$ range, moderate for Manhattan. There is no serious wine programme; iced tea, lemonade and other soft drinks are the usual accompaniment, with a limited bar selection. Reservations are recommended for Sunday brunch, and booking a few days to a week ahead is sensible for a weekend table; weekday visits often manage with walk-ins. Sylvia's sits near the Harlem stops of the subway, and visitors often combine a meal with a walk to the Apollo Theater, the Studio Museum in Harlem or a gospel-focused tour. The restaurant's long history and consistent menu make it as much a cultural stop as a meal.