Amy Ruth's

- 113 W 116th St, New York, NY 10026

Nestled in the heart of historic Harlem, Amy Ruth's is more than just a restaurant; it's an institution. Since its founding in 1999, this beloved eatery has been serving up some of the most authentic and soulful Southern comfort food in New York City. The restaurant was inspired by the memory of a loving grandmother, Amy Ruth Moore Bass, and that sense of family, warmth, and genuine care is palpable the moment you step inside. The walls are adorned with portraits of notable figures, adding to the rich, historic atmosphere that makes dining here a truly special experience. It’s a place where locals and tourists alike come to savor classic dishes prepared with skill and love, from legendary fried chicken to creamy macaroni and cheese. It’s a popular spot for brunch, lunch, and dinner, and for good reason—the food is consistently praised for being delicious, and the portions are famously generous.

The culinary philosophy at Amy Ruth's is all about homestyle cooking that warms the heart. The menu is a tribute to Southern traditions, with each dish named after a prominent community figure or a famous personality. This unique touch adds a layer of character and local flavor to an already exceptional dining experience. While the restaurant is particularly famous for its chicken and waffles, its extensive menu offers a wide range of comfort foods to suit any craving. From perfectly seasoned fried chicken to hearty meatloaf and savory shrimp, every item is crafted to bring a taste of the South to the streets of New York. The dedication to quality is evident in every bite, and the food is so good that customers often travel from out of state just to get a taste. The complimentary cornbread served upon arrival is a small but memorable detail that immediately makes you feel at home.

In addition to the fantastic food, the atmosphere at Amy Ruth's is a key part of its charm. The setting is casual and cozy, with a trendy, historic feel. It's a place where you can relax and enjoy a meal with family and friends, or even dine alone and feel completely comfortable. The staff is often noted for their friendly and attentive service, which contributes to the overall positive and welcoming vibe. While the restaurant can get busy, especially on weekends for brunch, the delicious food and the vibrant energy make it worth any wait. For many, a visit to Amy Ruth's is not just about eating; it's about experiencing a piece of Harlem's rich cultural and culinary history.

Amy Ruth's is perfectly situated at 113 W 116th St, New York, NY 10026, USA, placing it at the heart of the vibrant and historic Harlem neighborhood. This location is easily accessible for a wide range of visitors, whether they are on foot, driving, or using public transportation. The restaurant is committed to ensuring a comfortable experience for all guests, offering a wheelchair-accessible entrance, seating, and restroom. For those with their own vehicles, there is free street parking available, which is a significant amenity in a city like New York. The restaurant's presence on West 116th Street makes it a convenient and well-known landmark, ideal for a planned brunch outing or a spontaneous lunch stop while exploring the area. Its proximity to other cultural sites and attractions in Harlem makes it a perfect starting or ending point for a day spent discovering the neighborhood.

Amy Ruth's understands the needs of its diverse clientele and offers a variety of services to provide a flexible and convenient dining experience. Their service model is designed to accommodate different preferences, from a leisurely dine-in meal to a quick takeout order. It's an establishment that caters to both a sit-down meal and a fast-paced New York lifestyle.

• Dine-in and Table Service: Guests can enjoy a full-service dining experience in the restaurant's cozy and historic atmosphere. The table service is attentive and friendly, making it a great option for a relaxed meal.
• Takeout: For those who are on the go or prefer to eat at home, Amy Ruth's provides an efficient takeout service, ensuring you can enjoy their delicious food wherever you are.
• Delivery and No-contact delivery: The restaurant offers convenient delivery services, including a no-contact option, allowing you to have their famous soul food delivered right to your door.
• Accepts Reservations: For a planned visit, especially with a group, Amy Ruth's accepts reservations, which can help minimize any potential wait time.
• Catering: If you're hosting an event or a party, the restaurant also provides catering services, making it easy to bring a taste of their soulful cuisine to your gathering.

Amy Ruth's is a truly unique place in New York's dining scene, with several key features that set it apart. These highlights contribute to its reputation as a must-visit spot in Harlem.

• Legendary Chicken and Waffles: This is arguably the restaurant's most famous dish. The combination of crispy, juicy fried chicken and a fluffy, fresh waffle is a culinary experience that has earned them a loyal following and citywide acclaim.
• Generous Portions: Customers consistently praise the large portion sizes, noting that one entree is often enough for two people. This offers great value and ensures you won't leave hungry.
• Rich Southern Sides: The sides are as celebrated as the main dishes. Their Homemade Baked Macaroni And Cheese, Collard Greens, and Homemade Candied Yams are all fan favorites that provide a true taste of Southern cooking.
• Great Desserts: Amy Ruth's offers an impressive selection of desserts, with rave reviews for items like their peach cobbler and sweet potato pie. These are the perfect ending to a soulful meal.
• Historic and Cozy Atmosphere: The restaurant's decor, featuring portraits of black icons, gives it a historic and authentic feel. The atmosphere is described as casual, cozy, and trendy, making it a comfortable place for all types of diners.
• Serves Local Specialty: The restaurant is known for its focus on authentic soul food, a local specialty that is celebrated and perfected here.
• Good for Kids: With high chairs and a kids' menu, Amy Ruth's is a great place to bring the family.
• Late-Night Food: For those late-night cravings, the restaurant also offers a menu of comfort food that is available late, which is a great option in a city that never sleeps.

To learn more about Amy Ruth's, make a reservation, or place a takeout order, you can contact the restaurant using the details below. Their friendly staff will be happy to assist you with any questions.

Address: 113 W 116th St, New York, NY 10026, USA

Phone: (212) 280-8779

While the entire menu at Amy Ruth's is full of delicious options, a few items stand out as absolute must-tries for first-time visitors and regulars alike. You simply cannot go to Amy Ruth's without trying a version of their legendary chicken and waffles. The Rev. Al Sharpton, which features fried or smothered chicken on a waffle, is a popular choice and a great introduction to their signature dish. Another fan favorite is the Reggie Harris, which is the southern honey-dipped fried chicken. For those looking for something different, the Fried Catfish Fillet is praised for being perfectly crispy and tender, and the Shrimp Po'Boy is another standout on the sandwich board. On the entree menu, the The Michelle Obama (Fried Whiting) and The Ludacris (Fried Jumbo Chicken Wings) are both excellent choices. When it comes to sides, the Homemade Baked Macaroni And Cheese is a non-negotiable—it's creamy, cheesy, and a perfect example of their homestyle cooking. The Homemade Candied Yams and Collard Greens are also highly recommended. To complete your meal, be sure to try one of their refreshing homemade beverages like the Freshly Squeezed Lemonade or the Homemade Sweet Iced Tea. And don't even think about leaving without a slice of one of their famous desserts, especially the sweet potato pie or peach cobbler, which are known for their generous size and incredible flavor. A meal at Amy Ruth's is a truly complete experience, from the savory main dishes to the sweet, soulful desserts.

Amy Ruth's

113 W 116th St, New York, NY 10026, USA