Sylvia's Restaurant

Best Restaurants in New York City | Eater NY

"Dubbed “the queen of soul food,” Sylvia Woods opened her namesake restaurant in 1962, bringing generous servings of Southern comfort food to Harlem. The neighborhood spot is famous for its timeless cooking and Southern charm, which still endures decades after opening. Order the daily special such as meatloaf, or other dishes like the chicken and waffles and fried shrimp. While Woods died in 2012, her family continues to run the restaurant. The restaurant earned the America’s Classics Award from the James Beard Foundation in 2024. There are indoor and outdoor dine-in services; takeout and delivery orders can be placed online. Know before you go: The restaurant hosts gospel brunch on Sundays and live music on Wednesdays." - Emma Orlow