Sylvia's

Restaurants, Soul and southern American Harlem
5 out of 5 stars
(3user reviews)
Sylvia’s
Photograph: Courtesy Sylvia’s

Sylvia's, a soul food restaurant in Harlem, has been a neighborhood staple since 1962.

Posted:

Venue name: Sylvia's
Contact:
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Address: 328 Malcolm X Blvd
New York
10027
Cross street: between 126th and 127th Sts
Transport: Subway: 2, 3 to 125th St
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Average User Rating

5 / 5

Rating Breakdown

  • 5 star:3
  • 4 star:0
  • 3 star:0
  • 2 star:0
  • 1 star:0
LiveReviews|3
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tastemaker

Please come here to experience the same deliciousness I did. You'll be doing yourself and your tastebuds a favor. 


Sylvia's is by far the best fried chicken I've ever had. I enjoyed the dark meat chicken with a side of mashed potatoes and gravy and mac and cheese. Everything on my plate was a heart attack waiting to happen, but somehow I'm still standing, and don't regret a single bite. 


The group of us (4 people) went at 1pm, and had to wait about 15-20 minutes. Not bad at all. However, by the time we wrapped up our meal, there were at least 20 people standing outside the restaurant waiting in line. Also, service was friendly and quick. No complaints there either. 


To top it off, Sylvia apparently was the best person in the world. Rumor has it that back in the day, if anyone were to come in the door and ask for a little food because they had nothing to eat, she would sit them right down and offer them a meal. No questions asked. With love like that behind the restaurant and food, you know you're getting the real deal. 



Solid soul food institution, great fried chicken, super friendly service, strong and tasty drinks as well. And don't get me started on the mac n cheese and desserts!The only downside is that this is probably *the* tourist spot for soul food. Sundays are crazy usually so come at an off time. More than worth stopping by!

tastemaker

One of, if not the best, purveyors of soul food in the city (world?). I cannot rave enough, but there are caveats. This is not a fine dining establishment - some of the food is extremely unhealthy, the decor and atmosphere at times is very 'homely' meaning plain tablecloths, perhaps loud noises from large groups, very relaxed (but attentive) service staff and greetings, etc. There is sometimes a pretty long wait and unless you hound the host/hostess they may forget about you. But now, on to the good stuff. The drinks are great (rum punch house special) - quite strong, and priced cheap. There are rotating specials, which are by and large not to be missed. And, of course, there are soul food staples (chicken and waffles) cooked any way you like, with house made hot sauce. Really great, really relaxing, probably unhealthy, but not to be missed.