"If you’re looking for soul food, Harlem has plenty of options. But if you’re looking for a neighborhood spot where it's relatively easy to grab a table, make a few friends, and have some great soul food, go to Melba’s. The chicken and waffles are mandatory, the short ribs are also excellent, and the collard greens are some of the best in the city. If you're by yourself, grab a seat at the bar—and join in whenever a table starts singing Happy Birthday." - neha talreja, hannah albertine, bryan kim, willa moore, sonal shah
"Need a snack before your MetroNorth commute? Melba’s, a legendary fried chicken and soul food spot in Harlem, now has a location in Grand Central. Make your fellow commuters jealous with the aroma of their “comfortizer” fried chicken ($4.99 per piece). They’ve also got fried catfish, mac and cheese, and other staples to go." - will hartman, bryan kim
"Melba's, owned by Melba Wilson, is a beloved soul food restaurant in Harlem that offers more than just food. It's a community hub where patrons can experience spontaneous moments of joy and connection, such as joining in a chorus of Stevie Wonder’s 'Happy Birthday' with strangers. The restaurant is part of Harlem's cultural fabric, offering dishes like oxtails that are steeped in tradition and love." - Ty Gaskins
"A Harlem restaurant named as a semifinalist for Outstanding Hospitality, representing notable service and community standing in the borough." - Emma Orlow
"For the first time ever, Melba’s in Harlem is making their soul food available for delivery. They’ll be taking orders for mac and cheese, wine-braised short ribs and so much more online between noon and 9pm." - hannah albertine, nikko duren, bryan kim, arden shore, matt tervooren