Alvin & Friends

We enjoyed a family reunion and we were able to have a conversation across the table even with the piano, which starts about 8:30 or so. The music adds to the enjoyment of the meal. The menu is very limited, maybe 6-8 entrees and an equal number of appetizers and desserts. My favorite, the chicken with waffles is no longer available. Most of the dishes are deep fried, so be prepared. This is not a BYOB; but the drinks are good, I recommend the coconut daiquiri

It was a pleasant first time experience eating at Alvin & Friends. We booked a reservation prior and were able to get our seats quickly upon arrival. We were given corn bread while reviewing the menu, a nice little snack while waiting. For starters we ordered the chicken empanadas and the 3 combo appetizer. For entrees we ordered the glazed salmon, oxtail, buttermilk chicken and shrimp on grits. All were delectable, smooth and flavorful. For dessert we shared the chocolate cake and ube ice cream, both were rich and delicious, highly recommend. The service was wonderful, the servers were timely and attentive, very pleasant people. It was also nice to meet Alvin, greeted our table and asked how we were doing as well spoke to us before we left. Additionally, there was beautiful live music playing that really brought the ambience together.

Made reservations for my sons 18th birthday! The food was delicious, portions were good and drinks were hittin!! Service was good although it was only myself and maybe 2 other families so that worked out in our favor as far as attentiveness is concerned. I do recommend 10/10

We had a great time for Candy's birthday dinner. The food was great, and the owner, Alvin, the owner, came to our table to see how we were doing. I thought that was a very kind gesture on his part. The atmosphere was great, a live jazz band entertained while we ate. I must say we really enjoyed ourselves at this restaurant. The food was very good. I had the catfish, grits with black eye Peas, Candy, the birthday girl, had seafood pasta, Diane had the catfish, grits without black eye peas, and Tarsha had the Catfish nibbles with side of peas and rice. Drinks were good, and my peach margerita was different. The mojiot wasn't a hit, but the coconut martini was a hit. I recommend Alvin and Friends

Most people in my party enjoyed there food. Unfortunately I didn't. I got the oxtail and was disappointed. The gravy of the oxtail is equally important as the meat itself. They served the plate with very little gravy. I had to ask for more. Also, the gravy should be thick and it wasn't. It wasn't what I would expect from a carribbean dish. My wife had shrimp and grits and she enjoyed.

What a wonderful eclectic atmosphere and vibe. The owner..Alvin absolutely made us all feel like we were old friends. The live Jazz form an amazing 89 yr old black female pianist was the cherry on top of this already amazing brunch ! I cannot wait to return .

I went to Alvin & Friends for brunch and found the restaurant warm and welcoming from the owner down through the staff. The servers were very attentive. I was impressed with the artwork that surrounds the entire space. Also, there was a musical group that performed during my visit who were excellent. We tried the restaurant because of the Caribbean/Southern menu. I would recommend a visit.

Warm and upscale, Alvin & Friends in New Rochelle offers a delicious blend of Southern and Caribbean classics. The walls are adorned with vibrant artwork, and on select nights, live music adds to the lively atmosphere. Rum Punch Meatballs - Tender and flavorful, generously coated in a rich rum punch barbecue sauce. Plus, the portion size is just right! Beef Empanadas - perfectly flaky and filled with tender, flavorful beef. They’re delicious on their own or paired with the flavorful creole sauce. Beef Taco/Catfish Taco - Both so good, it’s hard to pick a favorite! Each is served with flavorful chipotle and rum punch barbecue sauces, adding the perfect finishing touch. Catfish w/ Black Eyed Peas and Four Cheese Macaroni - Crispy catfish coated in a thick batter and topped with flavorful Creole remoulade, is packed with great taste—though it could be a touch less crispy on the outside. The four-cheese macaroni is absolutely delicious, and the black-eyed peas make for the perfect complement, especially for someone like me! Walnut Brownie - a truly satisfying dessert, featuring a perfectly baked brownie with walnuts adding a delightful crunch. Topped with creamy vanilla ice cream, it creates the perfect balance of warm and cool in every bite.

Attended for Father's Day dinner, food was amazing , dessert was great! Management & Service was great! Tried Rum Punch & Brownie on the dessert menu both was really good filling and just enough sweetness. Saw the owner very sweet gentlemen checked on us a few times and talked with us great business would definitely recommend to newcomers Walnut Brownie - 10/10 AMAZING!

I've been coming to Alvin's for years. Popped in today for brunch. It was OK. The service has dropped off a little bit, but the food is still delicious. The catfish fritters are tasty. not shown here was the catfish with grits and collard greens, which was yummy as well as the chicken fried chicken and waffles, which was quite tasty there's a three dollar up charge if you choose dark meat That is something you're not aware of until the bill arrives other than that, this is a consistently good place. You should definitely come by. You'll enjoy the live music and the ambience while you're here.

We went to celebrate Candy's belated birthday dinner at Alvin & Friends. We had a good time listening to the live jazz band. The owner Alvin came and introduced himself to everyone at the table, which I thought was very classy. The restaurant has a very intimate, grown setting. The food was delicious. I had the Catfish with grits and black eye Peas. Birthday girl Candy had the Seafood Pasta, Tasha had the Peas n Rice with catfish croquettes and Diane had the Catfish, Grits without the Blackeye Peas. The bill was reasonable $250 for 4 people wasn't bad at all. Now, the drinks. I had the peach margerita and it was very good and sweet. Diane had the Coconut Martini, Candy had Fruit Punch and Tarsha had the Mojito which she stated was ok could have been better. Overall, we had a great time and I do recommend Alvin & Friends Restaurant. Oh, we'll be back.

My fiancé and I were exploring around New Rochelle and we came across Alvin & Friends! I was a wee bit hangry at the time and a bit worried since most restaurants around the area were a bit empty, but when we walked past Alvin & Friends it was lively and looked like a great place to eat so we went in. I think they already won me over with the immediate offering of cornbread. The drink I got (a prosecco/chambord mix) was delicious. Then came the wings, grits, and jambalaya which left us happy and full on our way back to Manhattan. The surprise at the end of our meal, we met Alvin himself at the restaurant! The experience at this restaurant was a great one and we'll definitely be back here to eat some more!

I enjoyed their Christmas Eve Party. My mother got a chance to take a photo with Santa.

Alvin runs a friendly and entertaining restaurant! The cuisine is inspired too! My husband threw a milestone bday for me with 60 + guests and to the person, they raved about the food, ambience and the staff. We have since been back often for dinner and Sunday brunches. A wonderful place for a party or just a relaxed meal!

Wonderful ambience, great jazz. Creative and delicious drinks, appetizers, enteres and deserts. Attentive and professional wait staff.

About this establishment. Set the scene... Live jazz playing as if ever note has a heartbeat... before you get to the door you hear it. Musicians playing, exposed with their hearts on their sleeve. Owner passes by, and great you his guest. As drinks trickle in , a whiskey there a bourbon there... oh and their rum punch hits! Rum punch also is fire on their wings. I mean fire. Ate the so quick , forgot to snap a pic. Defines date night spot. Take a look at the painted pictures on the wall. If you go with a small party I believe you will get a five star experience.

Love this place! The live music is entertaining, wait staff excellent, Alvin the best owner who takes care of his many customers stopping at tables to be sure they are happy. Beautiful artwork by Alvin displayed throughout the restaurant! A must visit for an evening out to enjoy car

Great service! The staff was kind and attentive, the music and ambiance was lovely, and the food was delicious! I ordered Evelyn's famous coconut cheesecake and it was amazing. Wishing the owner and crew continued success. They have made a loyal patron out of me.

One of my favorite spots in Westchester! The owner Alvin is so friendly- I've literally met him on each visit. He even offered me a free glass of champagne for my birthday. And the food and drink menus are superb. Try to go on a night when jazz bands are performing.

Alvin stopped by personally not just at our table, but every table and it was such a great experience. We have some very serious food allergies and the entire team took them very seriously with the waiter making multiple trips to the kitchen to double check for us. Would give 10/5 stars, if possible. The food was also delicious and the atmosphere so good. Will return for sure!

Classy space. The owners were super warm and welcoming. We really enjoyed our entree. Being from Harlem, I always appreciate finding good soul food spots north of the city where we currently reside. I certainly recommend this place.

Excellent. Everything was delicious and seasoned to perfection. Live jazz with Sun brunch was an added treat.

It was buffet style and unfortunately the food wasn't hot, and I informed two hostess/ waitress about it. There was turkey but no turkey wings, i had to ask for it and it was provided. There was no courtesy accommodation and 20% gratuity was precharged even though it was only 2 of us and its a buffet. I also expecting better dessert options that were home made and warm. My 92 year old father normally dine here with a regular menu and highly recommended this place. But the buffet doesn't work and charged $5.50 for a soda. My bill was $175 for the two of us and there was no way it's comparable to the food. Ambiance is fine.

Very nice atmosphere and the prices were reasonable. I had the shrimp and grits, which is very good although I was not used to having grits be sweet. They served it with a slice of fresh lemon, which balanced out the sweet taste. I would definitely go back.

Great Ambiance great food and service was awesome as well m we went in a night when they offered live jazz It was nice Also the owner went to every table to introduce himself We will visit again very soon

3xcellent food great ambiance got there late and the owner greeted us to see if we liked the food was appreciated

I had a Mother's Day dinner with my wife and children. I ordered salmon($48) and she had a surf*($45) It's pricey but delicious . The children loved the chicken tender with fries. Service was great. Mr. Alvin came over to greet us after we were seated with a friendly smile. Our order was taken by his beautiful daughter. Without realizing that our entrees were delayed, Mr. Alvin came over to apologize and gave us 50% discount for our food. That was a shock. We'll definitely return to Alvin & Friends

Best food I have ever tasted. Great drinks definitely recommend if you want to have a nice night out listen to some jazz and vibe

I don't know that I have ever been more motivated to encourage people to try a restaurant. It's pretty much the epitome of why I participate in Yelp. Everything about Alvin and this restaurant is exactly the way "it should be done." There are many proprietors, many hosts, many managers in the restaurant business. However, you will never come across one so genuinely warm and welcoming as Alvin. He doesn't just make a token pass by your table to greet you. He engages in conversation, returns to make sure your experience is its best, and sends you off with an urgency to return. And just like Dale Carnegie might have told you, this expertise, this personality, this genuine gentleman influences every person who works in his restaurant to be similarly engaging. I can't say enough about the staff at Alvin and friends. It's simply the best service, the best care you will ever receive. Do I still have time and space to include a few notes about the food? I hope so. So fresh, dishes so well crafted, with ingredients that will delight your palate and nourish your entire being. My family devoured salmon, steak, and I myself loved the simplicity of the kale quinoa salad with the most delicious fried chicken strips you will ever encounter. We came to this restaurant 10 years ago to celebrate my brothers birthday; I can't believe it took this long to come back. He is now vegan and Alvin got such a kick out of his menu being so perfect to suit my brothers tastebuds as well as all of ours. We didn't really need dessert, but a combination of Fruit, cake and ice cream; it needs not be discussed, but I suppose I just did. Throughout dinner and into the night, three talented, inspiring women played some of the smoothest jazz north of N'Orleans. We marveled that the bar was not packed to enjoy them on a Saturday night at 8:30 pm. I would love you to try Alvin and friends, but just make sure there's a table for my family underneath any of the gorgeous and soulful pieces of art.

We just celebrated our anniversary here, as we also had our first date at Alvin's. I can't say enough nice things about this restaurant. The food is next level. Everything we ate -- jerk spinach dip, jambalaya, drinks -- was fantastic. They had an amazing jazz trio. I've never seen musicians this talented in a setting like this. Looking forward to our next visit.

Everything about this restaurant is superb. Service, food, ambiance. And the owner always comes by to greet EVERY customer. I have always had a great experience when I dine with them, brunch, dinner, etc.

True rating 3.5 I was invited to have brunch with a dear friend of mine. We were passed due to catch up. My friend had previously gone and raved about the spot. However, this time around, she was not impressed. I, on the other hand, was not disappointed. We arrived in between hours, brunch - dinner so we had to wait. I ordered a mojito that was freshly prepared. For my entree, I had the Cajun seafood pasta. That is a must try. My friend opted for a vegan option. She did not care for it. But it looked nice. I personally would love to try again. I did not get the full experience because my friend was comparing to the other times she had come, so our visit in comparison was subpar. However, what I did experience makes me want to go back. If I do I will update my review.

I loved everything about this restaurant. Starting with the people that work there in nearly every capacity. Every single person was nice as well as helpful and considerate. The space is beautiful. We went on a night of a jazz trio which was fabulous. I was expecting good food and that's what we got! I am vegan and my boyfriend is not. The usual situation for us is that one of us is happier with our food. Alvin and friends has great vegan options so we were both totally happy.

Visited this place many times over the years - classy place to bring a date and/or family and friends. Noticed that they have recently added more vegetarian and vegan items to their menu - good and necessary move on their part. One might run into a celebrity or two @ this fine New Rochelle establishment - a pillar of the community for many years - original art work on the walls by the co-owner - a must visit place if you are nearby!

I love the environment. Manages to be bright while also moodily dark. Wonderful live jazz, Alvin is so gracious and warm as a host. The food is great. Love this place.

Got recommendation from friends in other states to try this spot as I'm new to the area. Menu sounded Supreme. I started my order with wings and Mac&cheese and coconut cake. But I was at work and decided I'd finish the order when I got in my car so it'd be fresh and hot when I picked up. I have a long commute. Well grub hub had other plans... my duvet was charged though I hadn't submitted final. The very nice delivery guy was at my door 45 mnts before I got there. Thankfully my family was home. The kicker?? No cake. The wings were not jejersey.. and the Large mac&cheese was the size for a kid.... but did was yummy. Hate to say it but I don't think I'll use delivery again.. maybe I'll visit next time I'm inspired.

Alvin's is truly a gem in the community. If you are looking for an upscale, dining restaurant with friendly, welcoming service, please consider this establishment. Myself and 3 friends ventured here to celebrate a birthday. The birthday girl chose the spot. We arrived on a Saturday evening, earlier this summer for dinner. I live in the Bronx. Alvin's is about a 15 minute drive. Parking was easy to find as there is a reasonably priced parking lot right across the street. Upon walking in, we were warmly greeted and seated immediately. There was a live jazz band playing which created such a wonderful, calming vibe. Our waiter came over within minutes to introduce himself and we started off with drinks. The menu is pretty straight forward and features a fusion of Southern-American and Caribbean dishes, and drinks. For starters, we had a variety of appetizers including: codfish fritters empanadas, and the shrimp tostones. The fritters was delicious! Having just one, was a sin. I almost felt bad that I had to share because it was that good lol. They seemed pretty fresh and seasoned just right. Some places will use to much curry or too much pepper, but not these. They were just right. The fish empanadas were also good. Fish and empanadas are kind of unusual to me, but it worked here especially with the creole sauce on top. I don't like tostones, so I did not try it. For the entree, I opted for the grilled Jerk pork chop with string beans and sweet potato wedges. The pork chop was ok. It was cooked perfectly but the seasoning blend wasn't my favorite. It tasted like it was infused with alot of garlic, paprika, and perhaps rosemary. Just a little too smokey in my opinion, but it did the job. The sweet potatoes and green beans however, were delicious. The sweet potatoes especially, were baked perfectly with the right amount of sweetness and texture. Food came within a reasonable amount of time with no issues. To top the night off, the staff sang happy birthday to my friend and presented her with a delicious double chocolate cake which she enjoyed. Service was impeccable. All of the staff, and I really mean all of them, were kind, friendly, and helpful. There wasn't one person I came across that was rude or dismissive. Alvin himself was there and came over to greet us and thank us for our patronage. Perhaps I'm an old soul, but to mean that's a wonderful gesture. Small businesses thrive off of community members, so to personally have him come by and pleasantly interact with us, says he appreciates our business. As we ate, the jazz band played throughout the night. We were able to go over and make special requests to which they adapted wonderfully. The premises are pretty spacious with a full sized bar and some sky lights. There is also natural light coming from the front windows/doors. The lighting is pretty dim, so it creates a calming effect. Overall, it was a great time. I must say however, if you are looking for a turn-up or something like a boozy brunch, this is not the place. It's ideal for a mature dinner date, celebration, or work event. Perhaps even an after church meal. The crowd seemed to be an older one, something like early 40s and up. We are all in our early 30s, but this is our preferred type of dining and entertainment; just be aware. Nonetheless, I would highly recommend this establishment and I will definitely be returning.

The moment you step inside you feel the culture, from the live jazz/R&B to the African/African American artwork. You are welcomed by the owner as you enter. The Saltfish Cook-up had the perfect balance of spices and flavor, and the Trini fries were huge and crispy. The owner even took a group picture for us as we left the restaurant.

Great food, great music, great owner. What's not so like? Do yourself a favor and go.

Attended this lovely black owned restaurant last weekend for a close friend's farewell surprise dinner and had a blast! Although this venue is far from where I live, it was worth the trip due to the hospitality and overall positive atmosphere of the staff here. Alvin's famous rum punch is famous for a reason; it's satisfying. My close friend and I had the salmon meal over steamed veggies and mash potatoes. Every bite was delicious! The highlight of our night was when the owner himself came to our private room area to introduce himself and wished us a great night. The kitchen does close a little early and it would have been nice for our server to provide us with a last call for the kitchen as a heads up. We didn't even get to order dessert and it wasn't even offered to our large party of over ten people.

Yes my husband and I celebrated our anniversary The food was Great and Alvin took time out to come to our table to say "Hello"

Great food and services. A great choice for dinner or Sundays Branch will family or friends.

Great music, great people great food. One of my spots Xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx

Dope spot! Alvin is a class act and the ambiance and service was top notch. Food was tasty and affordable.. I went for Sunday brunch the live jazz music was a nice touch. Alvin requested a special birthday song for my friend Keisha and it was such a special addition to our dinning experience. Definitely would recommend for family, friends or a chill date.

We've been to Alvin's place a handful of times. Tonight we enjoyed dinner with some live jazz. I've always enjoyed this place for its mix of Southern food with Caribbean influences. Tonight, my wife tried the Doubles appetizer and then had the cod fritters, which she said had an ample amount of heat. I had the friend chicken, which was beautifully fried although slightly dry (white meat). The cheesecake dessert was excellent. We dropped about $160 all in with cocktails. One thing that bothered me was a slight up charge for using a credit card (3%). For a restaurant in this price range, I have to believe that almost everyone pays by card. It just felt cheap, when if the point was to cover the credit card carrying cost, 50 cents up on a few menu items would cover it. This aside, the staff were very attentive. In fact, I don't think I've been to a restaurant as well-staffed as Alvin and Friends since before COVID. It's great to see everything back to the way it should be ... or in tonight's case, above and beyond. What was really special was how Alvin stopped by our table to chat for a bit. He shared a few stories from Trinidad, which we really enjoyed. We have been here three or four times before. We'll be back for sure.

I'd always see A&F when I'd visit the lounge right next door, but today was my first time trying it. I'm so glad I did! I ordered the Avocado toast to which my server warned was more of an appetizer, so I ordered an entree as well. I was thrilled to see the many vegan options, so I asked his recommendation & he suggested the Jerk "Chicken" and said the sauce was "to die for" he was absolutely right. Sauce was good. It came with fluffy coconut rice n peas, veggie medley, and plantains. Now the Avocado Toast? Baybeeeee it was gooood. My eggs were scrambled PERFECTLY omg. A lot of restaurants get this wrong. I believe the greens on top were watercress, they could've put less of that, but other than that, it's one of the best Avocado toast I've ever had. My date had Catfish & grits...I tasted a bit of it, it was very good. We had basic brunch cocktails. No dessert. Maybe next time. The restaurant's ambience is modern, elegant & cozy...no pretentiousness here. , It's much larger than it appears from the outside too. The staff were kind & hospitable from the hostess, to our server, to the server's assistants/bussers. And we were lucky as Mr. Alvin was in the building and he stopped by all tables briefly to thank his supporters for stopping by. He's a class act! I will DEFINITELY return here for brunch!! I'll also come back to try dinner. I enjoyed the restaurant that much.

I've been here several times, before and after the pandemic. Great service. Decent food and great ambiance. I've been for a private event and for lunch/dinner- not for brunch. Good for dates, groups, parents visits.

Had a birthday dinner for a friend here on Friday. It was 13 of us. I will say right away that I'm definitely coming back to this establishment....here's why: they had live jazz! Loved it! Mr. Alvin came by and said hello and I thought that was a nice touch! Ambiance was cool! Slightly dimmed lights and had great art work on all walls, which they make and sell and I love that! The drinks were absolutely amazing!!!! I had the rum punch which was very strong and with a perfect balance of sweetness and citrus flavors....also had the peach margarita! Good flavor and also very strong! 10 out of 10 on the drinks! The rum punch wings and the cos fish fritters were a hit. The jerk wings were ok. For entrees we had a variety of dishes: I had the fried chicken which was crispy and flavorful. My husband said his jambalaya was on point. Now to the reason why I didn't your be 5-stars: the service. It felt that since we were a large party and the gratuity is automatically included, that they were not attentive at all! We did witnessed them take care of smaller tables a lot more efficiently! I think our next visit will consist with drinks at the bar while listening to jazz.

I ordered the caramelized Atlantic Salmon and Mac and cheese through Uber Eats. The salmon platter was delicious. My only complaint is that it was a really small portion. I paid $28.50 for the salmon platter and $9 for the Mac and cheese. The Mac and cheese had a Cajun taste to it. If it were advertised as Cajun Mac and cheese I would not have ordered it. The Mac and cheese I received also didn't look like the other pictures. It also didn't taste like it was a four cheese blend. I would have given 5 stars if the portion were larger and the Mac and cheese were regular Mac and cheese. Other than that, I was really impressed with the salmon platter!

Great place! Great food! I noticed the beautiful artwork that was adorned on the walls. The owner was wonderful he stopped by our table to introduce himself.

I've been here a couple of times and have always had a great experience. But our most recent visit exceeded expectations. Of course the food was fantastic but the service and welcoming nature of ownership and staff is just beyond. My husband, daughter and I went there on a whim on Saturday night because we were in the area. We weren't necessarily dressed and didn't take into account the fact that's it was a Saturday (before V-day) and live music was playing. Unsurprisingly we were told they were fully booked. Which we totally understood and we left. On the way out we passed one of the owners, who we don't know, but we had a friendly exchange. She asked why we were leaving and said she could help. Ok...we thought. Sure enough, she set up a makeshift 3-top at the end of the bar for us!! She was so nice and welcoming the whole time. I know we surprised the waitstaff as we were an unexpected table. But bartender Delroy was fantastic - everyone was really. We had an amazing meal, some of Alvin's famous punch and listened to some great live music. Their cornbread is addicting by the way! Besides the delicious meal, our dinner was a reminder of the goodness in people. They make you feel like a friend and that you've come on home. Will absolutely return soon, with a reservation!

One of my favorites. Food, service and atmosphere definitely top shelf. Entertainment is a plus to make your visit even more enjoyable.

Great food and atmosphere. The rum punch was great and I had the southern fried chicken which was good too. The service and so was nice! Great date night restaurant.

Alvin & Friends is a fantastic place eat, relax and be entertained. The service is is outstanding, and the waiters are polite and friendly. There is a long bar where you can sit and drink or eat. The food is terrific.. and, seems to me to be a great combination of southern and Caribbean cuisine.. It is quite tasty. Your .taste buds will not be disappointed. They have a piano and on some nights they have entertainment in way of jazz, a vocalist or both. The restaurant is well decorated with paintings done by the owner, who will often come out a speaks with the guest. He is a very personable guy. You will like him and you will like the restaurant. Eat well my friends.

Excellent gathering spot for friends and family and The live Jazz elevates the entire experience The food the Catfish, Baby Back ribs, Ox tails and unstoppable cornbread all presented by wonderful service staff

My husband and I love Alvin and Friends. I recommend it all the time. The food is delicious but the service is even better. I am Vegetarian and always have so many options. Alvin the owner is usually there and comes around to greet all the guest. It makes you feel so special. The environment is welcoming. The brunch is to die for and the Art work (painted by the owner) will keep you coming back.

Great place for drinks and food. Friendly staff and bartenders. Great ambiance. Highly recommended.