Native Restaurant Introduce
Located in the vibrant and historic neighborhood of Harlem, Native Restaurant is a well-known dining establishment that offers a modern and inventive take on American cuisine. While its menu includes classic favorites, it also draws inspiration from a variety of global influences, creating a unique and exciting culinary experience. Native Restaurant is the kind of place you go for a special occasion or a relaxed, yet sophisticated, night out. It has gained a reputation for its stylish ambiance and a menu that balances familiar comfort food with more adventurous, international flavors. The chefs here are known for their creative approach, taking classic dishes and elevating them with unexpected twists. From the fresh and healthy "Grilled Salmon Salad" to the hearty "Steak Au Poivre," there's a dish to satisfy every palate. It's a place that prides itself on more than just food; it's about the entire dining experience, from the decor to the service. For New Yorkers looking to explore a new neighborhood or celebrate an event, Native Restaurant offers a compelling option that blends culinary innovation with a welcoming atmosphere.
Native Restaurant is conveniently situated at 161 Malcolm X Blvd, New York, NY 10026, placing it right in the heart of Harlem's bustling cultural scene. Its location on Malcolm X Boulevard (also known as Lenox Avenue) makes it easily accessible via public transportation, including the 2 and 3 subway lines at the 116th Street station, as well as several bus routes. This central positioning ensures that the restaurant is a convenient destination for both local residents and visitors exploring the area. The neighborhood itself is rich in history and is a major hub of African-American culture, which adds to the unique charm of the dining experience. While information on specific physical accessibility features like wheelchair ramps is not publicly available, the restaurant's prime street-level location suggests a degree of ease for patrons to enter. The restaurant's appeal is very much tied to its physical presence as a dine-in establishment, making its location a key part of its identity. Its space is designed to be a comfortable and stylish place to enjoy a meal, encouraging patrons to sit down, relax, and savor the full dining experience. Being a dine-in only establishment, the focus is squarely on the in-house experience, from the moment you walk through the door until the very end of your meal.
The core of Native Restaurant's service model is its dedication to a high-quality, dine-in experience. Unlike many other restaurants that have adapted to offer extensive takeout and delivery services, Native Restaurant has chosen to focus on providing an exceptional on-site meal. This allows them to maintain a high standard of presentation, service, and ambiance that can sometimes be lost with off-premises orders. This commitment to table service ensures that every dish is served fresh and exactly as the chef intended. The restaurant's staff is known for being good and attentive, even if some reviews might suggest inconsistencies in the food itself. For those looking for a special night out where the focus is on a great meal in a great setting, Native Restaurant's dine-in-only model is a significant advantage. This approach cultivates a more intimate and personal atmosphere, perfect for a date night, a birthday celebration, or a group dinner with friends. The absence of takeout and delivery operations means that the kitchen and staff can dedicate their full attention to the patrons in the dining room, ensuring a more refined and enjoyable experience for everyone.
The services offered at Native Restaurant are:
- Dine-in: A full-service dining experience, focusing on excellent table service and a curated atmosphere.
Native Restaurant is defined by a number of key features and highlights that set it apart in the bustling New York dining scene. Its menu is a major draw, offering a thoughtful fusion of classic American fare with international influences. The "Small Plates" section is particularly impressive, featuring creative options like "Crab And Salmon Cakes" and "Native Macaroni And Cheese," which are perfect for sharing or enjoying as a starter. The "Bowl Food" section provides hearty, satisfying meals like "Basil Curry Chicken" and "Red Rice And Beans," which are great for a full, comforting meal. For those with a taste for something different, the "Carne" section offers highlights like the "South African Braised Lamb Shank" and "Steak Au Poivre." Seafood lovers will appreciate the "Pecan Crusted Catfish" and "Grilled Salmon." The dessert menu is also a standout, featuring unique items like "Sweet Potato Cheesecake" and the classic "Apple Pie." The restaurant's physical space and atmosphere are also highlights. It's often described as a nice and pleasant place, with a space that is well-suited for a birthday party or a larger group gathering. The drinks, according to a recent review, are "delicious" and the food is "excellent." This combination of a well-crafted menu and a good ambiance makes Native Restaurant a go-to spot for those seeking a memorable dining experience in Harlem.
Key features and highlights include:
- Unique Menu: A fusion of American and global cuisines, with creative takes on classic dishes.
- Small Plates & Bowl Food: A versatile menu with options for both light and hearty meals.
- Inventive Cocktails: Known for delicious drinks that complement the food.
- Dessert Selection: A strong dessert menu with unique offerings like Sweet Potato Cheesecake.
- Ideal for Celebrations: The space and atmosphere are well-suited for hosting birthday parties and other special occasions.
For more information or to make a reservation, you can reach Native Restaurant at the following details:
Address: 161 Malcolm X Blvd, New York, NY 10026, USA
Phone: (212) 665-2525
What is worth choosing at Native Restaurant? The value of dining here lies in the full, immersive experience it offers. It’s not just about a quick meal; it's about enjoying a night out in a beautiful space with well-prepared food and drinks. The rave reviews for the drinks and the excellence of the food itself from one customer highlight the restaurant's potential to deliver a top-tier experience. While another review mentions inconsistencies and a need for improvement in the kitchen and the physical space, it's important to note that every restaurant has its challenges. However, the core of Native Restaurant's appeal—its creative menu and great atmosphere—remains. For those who want to support local Harlem businesses and enjoy a meal in a sophisticated yet comfortable setting, Native Restaurant is a strong choice. Its commitment to the dine-in experience means you can trust that your food will be served with care and attention. If you are a New Yorker seeking a restaurant that feels both local and elevated, Native is a great option. Their unique menu and dedication to providing a full experience make it a worthwhile destination for anyone looking for a memorable night in Harlem.
Native Restaurant Services
Big Salads
- Grilled Salmon Salad $13.25
goat cheese, apples, asparagus, mesclun, vegetarian friendly, can substitute with mixed vegetables or grilled portabella mushrooms.
- Grilled Chicken Salad $11.50
avocado, tomatoes, green beans, lemon caper sauce, mesclun greens, vegetarian friendly can substitute with mixed vegetables or grilled portabella mushrooms.
Small Plates
- Mixed Baby Greens Salad $5.25
balsalmic - dijon vinaigrette, cherry tomatoes
- Orange And Walnut Salad $7.00
bleu cheese, honey vinaigrette
- Baby Spinach Salad With Roasted Beets $8.00
roasted pear, ginger mint vinaigrette
- Blt Salad With Basil Mayo Dressing $6.25
bacon, romaine, tomatoes, croutons, vegetarian friendly, can substitute with mixed vegetables or grilled portabella mushrooms.
- Hummous Plate $6.00
served with pita bread
- Native Macaroni And Cheese $7.25
wisconsin cheddar, danish blue, parmesan
- Lightly Fried Calamari $8.00
marinara and remoulade sauce barbeque and buffalo wings $7.00 blue cheese dips.
- Warm Spinach Artichoke Dip $875.00
rich and delicious, served with bread
- Crab And Salmon Cakes $8.25
tomato-basil drizzle
Bowl Food
- Red Rice And Beans $10.00
sweet plantains and garlic spinach
- Basil Curry Chicken $11.00
spicy pan asian sauce, coconut rice, vegetarian friendly, can substitute with mixed vegetables or grilled portabella mushrooms.
- Southwest Chicken Over Rice $11.25
red peppers, onion, chipoltle, cream, vegetarian friendly, can substitute with mixed vegetables or grilled portabella mushrooms.
- Shrimp Pasta $13.00
white wine, cream, plum tomatoes, vegetarian friendly, can substitute with mixed vegetables or grilled portabella mushrooms.
- Smoked Salmon Pasta $12.50
scallops, goat cheese, asparagus, cream, vegetarian friendly, can substitute with mixed vegetables or grilled portabella mushrooms.
Carne
- Moroccan Fried Chicken $12.00
seared collards, mashed, walnut sauce
- South African Braised Lamb Shank $16.00
spiced tomato sauce, mashed potatoes
- Steak Au Poivre $18.00
mashed potatoes, garlic spinach
Ocean
- Pecan Crusted Catfish $14.00
cheddar grits, spinach, lemon thyme
- Grilled Salmon $13.50
sun dried tomato butter, mashed potatoes, asparagus
- Pan Seared Tilapia $12.50
mediterranean vegetable sauce, jasmine rice
Sides
- Sauteed Garlic Spinach $3.50
- Mixed Vegetables $3.00
- Collard Greens2.5
- Jasmine Rice $2.50
- Sweet Plantains $2.50
- Mashed Potatoes $2.50
- French Fries $2.50
- Cheddar Grits $3.50
Desserts
- Vesuvius $7.00
triple layered chocolate ganache mousse cake
- Sweet Potato Cheesecake $8.00
shakoor's secret recipe, not your average cheesecake
- Apple Pie $6.00
fresh baked apples with a flaky caramel crust
- Pecan Pie $6.00
a classic southern favorite
Native Restaurant Details
Service options
- Dine-in
- Delivery
Native Restaurant Photos

Native Restaurant Location
Native Restaurant
161 Malcolm X Blvd, New York, NY 10026, USA
Native Restaurant Reviews
Went for a birthday party recently and it was a very nice place and space. Drinks were delicious and food was excellent.
July 15 · Celeste Kenlawfood need work. much too greasy and over-worked. did they mean to stop half-way through construction? good staff.
March 30 · Tanya RobinsonVery good mojitos
November 16 · Sebastian DelmontFor an AMAZING night out Native is the place to be...Food, service, ambiance, drinks, music, ENTERTAINMENT all spectacular
August 30 · Shakila L
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