Sylvia's Restaurant

- 328 Malcolm X Blvd, New York, NY 10027

In the vibrant and historic heart of Harlem, Sylvia's Restaurant stands as more than just a place to grab a drink and a meal; it's a living piece of New York City's cultural tapestry. Known as the "Queen of Soul Food," Sylvia's has been a beloved institution for generations, drawing locals and tourists alike with its authentic Southern-style cuisine and a warm, inviting atmosphere. While it is celebrated for its incredible food, the establishment also features a bar that serves as a central point of its social scene. The historic and cozy ambiance, combined with the aroma of home-cooked meals, makes Sylvia's a truly unique destination that offers a taste of tradition in every bite and sip.

Sylvia's Restaurant is a place that promises a memorable experience, whether you're there for a full meal or just to enjoy a drink at the bar. The restaurant has a bar onsite, offering a fantastic selection of cocktails, beer, wine, and hard liquor. The "great cocktails" are a highlight, perfect for unwinding after a long day or getting a night out started. For those who appreciate a good brew, there's a selection of beer, and the wine list complements the rich flavors of the food. Sylvia's also offers happy hour drinks, making it a great spot for a pre-dinner get-together. The atmosphere is a perfect blend of casual, cozy, historic, and trendy, which attracts a diverse crowd of college students, locals, groups, and tourists.

The food menu is as much a part of the bar's identity as the drinks. It’s impossible to talk about Sylvia's without mentioning its legendary soul food. The menu is packed with comfort classics like Fried Chicken, BBQ Pork Ribs, and Two Pork Chop Entrees. A popular dish is the Chicken & Waffle, which one customer found to be "very impressive." The Catfish and Shrimp & Grits are also fan favorites. The sides are just as important as the mains, with a variety of options that include Baked Mac/Cheese, Traditional Collard Greens, and Candied Yams. A visit to Sylvia’s is not complete without trying the sweet and savory Cornbread, which a reviewer described as "one of the best I've ever tasted."

Beyond the standard menu, Sylvia's has daily specials, like Oxtails and Meatloaf, that keep the offerings fresh and exciting. The dessert menu is also a sweet treat, featuring classics like Sweet Potato Pie, Red Velvet Cake, and Banana Pudding. For those who want to take a piece of Sylvia's home, the restaurant offers merchandise like its famous BBQ sauce, seasonings, and even a family cookbook. This connection to its heritage and brand identity is a strong part of the restaurant’s appeal.

In terms of services, Sylvia’s offers a comprehensive dining experience. It has outdoor seating, which is perfect for enjoying a nice day in the city, as well as dine-in and takeout options. The restaurant is popular for breakfast, brunch, lunch, and dinner, making it a great destination at any time of day. Its brunch service is particularly well-regarded. While some customers have noted that there can be a wait, the ability to make reservations for lunch, brunch, and dinner helps manage expectations and ensures a smoother experience. The restaurant also provides a variety of family-friendly amenities, including high chairs, a kids’ menu, and changing tables, making it a comfortable place for families.

Located at 328 Malcolm X Blvd, New York, NY 10027, USA, Sylvia's is situated in a vibrant and accessible part of Harlem. The restaurant has a wheelchair accessible entrance, restroom, and seating, making it welcoming to all guests. Parking options include both free and paid street parking, providing flexibility for those driving to the location. The restaurant is not just a place for food and drinks; it’s also a hub for entertainment, with live music being a key highlight. This vibrant atmosphere, combined with the historic significance of the venue, makes it a true destination.

What is worth choosing at Sylvia's is the complete package: the historic setting, the vibrant atmosphere, the excellent drinks, and, most importantly, the authentic soul food. While some experiences with service might vary, the overall sentiment from many customers is that the food and the ambiance make the visit worthwhile. It’s a place to patronize a "Black-owned" and "women-owned" business, supporting a local institution with deep roots in the community. The cocktails are a standout feature, and the classic soul food dishes, like the fried chicken and cornbread, are consistently praised. For a memorable night out that combines great drinks, delicious comfort food, and a rich historical context, Sylvia's is a bar that offers a truly unique slice of New York life.

Location and Accessibility

Sylvia's Restaurant is located at:

328 Malcolm X Blvd, New York, NY 10027, USA

The restaurant offers a wheelchair accessible entrance, restroom, and seating. Free and paid street parking are available.

Services Offered

• Outdoor seating, Delivery, Takeout, and Dine-in
• Breakfast, Brunch, Lunch, Dinner, and Dessert
• Catering and private dining room available
• Accepts reservations

Features / Highlights

• Identifies as Black-owned and women-owned
• Fast service and great cocktails
• Live music and a historic atmosphere
• Offers alcohol, beer, wine, and hard liquor
• Popular for breakfast, lunch, dinner, and solo dining
• Good for groups, families, and tourists
• Kids' menu and amenities like high chairs and changing tables available

Contact Information

Address: 328 Malcolm X Blvd, New York, NY 10027, USA

Phone: (212) 996-0660

What is worth choosing

Sylvia's Restaurant is a historic and iconic choice for a bar in New York. Its a place to get great cocktails in a vibrant, historic setting, but it is also a place to experience some of the city's most authentic and beloved soul food. The menu is packed with comfort food classics that are worth the visit alone, and the live music adds a unique energy to the atmosphere. For a truly memorable experience that combines delicious food and drinks with a rich cultural history, Sylvia's is the perfect destination. It's more than a bar or a restaurant; it's a Harlem institution that welcomes everyone with a taste of home.

Sylvia's Restaurant

328 Malcolm X Blvd, New York, NY 10027, USA