Discover Hidden Harlem: Ultimate Local Experiences
Anonym
All New Yorkers will defend the city, and the way of life. However, everyone has their “I hate NY” moment. I hate New York because there’s no space. Can’t breathe without something in your face. What’s yours?
1Anonym
Looking for New friends 25+
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Melanie Yu
How do you decide your Halloween costume? Honestly, I’m just a monster for food 👹 can’t wait for Halloween this year, catch me haunting the snack table
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Storytime NYC
NiuKee Shumai. Trying this new shumai spot on Broome st! You have to check out NiuKee Shumai, a new shumai spot in SoHo. They serve delicious shumai, fluffy buns and a flavorful bone broth soup! Each shumai dish comes with 6 pieces for $6.95 and you can choose from beef & onion, pork & shrimp, chicken, or vegetarian. The cutest buns are made fresh to order, with red bean & ube, and are so soft and fluffy.
Cheryl
this szechuan spot just opened in the lower east side, nyc. right by delancey you can satisfy your szechuan cravings with their gorgeous interior. each dish was delicious and had strong flavor. • thin sliced pork belly with chill garlic sauce • egg custard bun • tradition stewed pork belly cubes • superior dry fried crab szechuan style • stir-fried string beans with minced cabbage and garlic • wagyu beef black truffle fried rice • handmade brown sugar glutinous rice cake 📍Fan Szechuan 大宅门
megan li
Get ready for incoming NYC spam… I’m not the biggest fan of BBQ pork buns, but these from Mei Lai Wah changed my mind. I want to take home an entire suitcase full of pineapple BBQ pork buns 🤩 You can get all their signature buns like their baked pork buns and pineapple custard buns - they are seriously so good. Plus new options like popcorn chicken, rice rolls, and skewers after 7pm!
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New York Locals
The Commodore I and Commodore II are iconic spots known for serving up some of the best crispy fried chicken and refreshing piña coladas in Williamsburg. 🍍✨ Founded by Chris Young and Taylor Dow, their success led to Commodore II’s opening in Manhattan’s East Village, bringing their famous menu to a whole new crowd. 🙌 With a strong focus on community and nightlife, Commodore II is already becoming a local favorite for both food lovers and partygoers alike. 🪩 🍽️ Stop by for a lively atmosphere, great eats, and a taste of what made The Commodore a Brooklyn staple! 🎉
See also
Dining in Great Neck: Discover Local Experiences, Foodie Favorites & Trending Dinner Spots Near NYC
Foodie_NYC
Shakshuka. The best breakfast in the world! I had brunch this Sunday at Tara and I came for the Shakshuka, a Mediterranean tomato stew with eggs. Yummmmmmmm. Definitely the best breakfast in the world. Rich. Spicy. Yummy. Filling. They definitely do it well at Tara… You know you want it…
megan li
Last of my NYC pics from a while ago! This meal will forever live in my heart… Japanese and Peruvian? What an interesting combo that works so well together. Their ceviches are a must order and the katsu was the most well fried and moist I’ve ever had. A very enjoyable meal with Jibae!
Time Out New York
Ess-a-Bagel has been a Manhattan staple since 1976, and local love for the family-owned business radiates throughout all of the five boroughs. Now, its expertly rolled, boiled and baked beauties are available right here in Brooklyn. Choose your own adventure with a doughy, fluffy everything, pumpernickel or cinnamon raisin bagel, and schmear it with all manner of decadent cream cheese options. Or, leave it to the experts and choose a sandwich from their curated menu of NYC faves.
Foodie_NYC
I had so much fun at Socarrat Paella Bar! It felt like dining and partying in Barcelona while skipping the airfare. The place is definitely built for a party—narrow, intimate, with great food. Flowing alcohol and impeccable service. I had: ENSALADA DE TOMATE HEIRLOOM Y BURRATA – GF $20 Burrata cheese, heirloom tomatoes, frisée, cucumber, tapenade, basil sherry vinaigrette PULPO A LA GALLEGA – GF $24 Galician style sliced octopus, potato cubes, paprika oil, sea salt CHULETAS DE CORDERO – GF $26 Marinated grilled lamb chops, olive pisto, olive oil & lemon Greek yogurt SOCARRAT PAELLA – GF $34 Free-range bone-in chicken, chorizo, shrimp, white fish, squid, mussels, cockles, fava beans, peppers, tomato sofrito And finished it all with: TORRIJA CARAMELIZADA – $14 Caramelized milk-infused brioche, lemon curd, strawberries, vanilla ice cream I washed it all down with a great red Spanish wine. A total Spanish celebration. Can’t wait to go back and try the rest of the menu. Highly recommend 💎💎💎
New York Locals
Lately Cafe Bar & Bistro has quickly become a Long Island City favorite since opening in April 2023. Founded by Eric Lee, this cozy neighborhood spot is known for its expertly brewed coffee and mouthwatering egg sandwiches. 🍳☕ But Lately is more than just a cafe—it’s a vibrant community hub that celebrates art, culture, and music, hosting events that bring neighbors together. 🎶✨ In May, they expanded with a new dinner menu and downstairs bar, offering a fresh take on seasonal ingredients and creative dishes. Join them for a memorable evening of great food, drinks, and local vibes. 🍽️
New York Locals
La Flor, founded by Giancarlo Villa and Bri Heu, is Brooklyn’s newest pizza hotspot. 🍕 Opened in July 2024, La Flor is the culmination of Giancarlo’s 15+ years of experience at NYC favorites like Roberta’s and Upside. ✨ Known for its thin, crispy crust, La Flor offers creative pies like the Spicy Hawaiian, Pepperoni with housemade ranch, and a vegan Bruschetta slice, alongside the classics. 🌸 The pizzeria’s name, meaning “the flower,” is a nod to its proximity to the Brooklyn Botanic Garden. Giancarlo personally designed and built the interiors, channeling the charm of classic New York pizzerias and Italian cafes. All pies are baked in a rare vintage Frank Mastro oven, giving each slice a distinct flavor with perfect charring. Come grab a slice and experience the artistry behind La Flor! 🍕
Morgan Raum
When you are fave college slice makes its way 🥳🍕 Mama’s Too has been a beloved Upper West Side gem for years, and founder Frank Tuttolomondo is nothing short of a pizza maestro. He’s perfected the art of combining unique toppings into flavor experiences you won’t find anywhere else in NYC. Take the Poached Pear slice, for example—aged mozzarella, sweet gorgonzola, and hot honey paired with poached pear for a sweet-savory masterpiece. Or my personal favorite, the Cacio e Pepe, featuring whipped mascarpone, Pecorino Romano, Parmigiano Reggiano, and cracked black pepper. The lines can get long, but trust me, when you finally reach the counter, you’ll want to order 3-4 slices to make it worth the wait. And it absolutely will be!
See alsoDiscover the Vibrant Community in Great Neck Near NYC: Local Insights, Trending Discussions & Anonymous Posts
Melanie Yu
Taiwan #1 with MeetFresh’s nostalgic desserts that bring me back to visiting my grandparents in Taiwan 😌 My go-to is always the Icy Grass Jelly C, a grass jelly based shaved ice with melon jelly, rice balls, and boba - though I always try to sub out the rice balls and boba for lychee jelly and more melon jelly! My family loves the Hot Red Bean Soup A and B, and the Icy Tofu Puddings 😋 And if you’re not feeling so adventurous, try their hot crispy egg waffles! They’re such a staple and go well with their add-on ice creams 🍨 These desserts are HUGE and fill you up, so make sure to leave room after dinner!
Natasha Surti
🥩The steaks are high🥩 🍽Where I went: Le Relais de Venise - L’Entrecôte ✔️What I got: Salad, Steak & Fries 💰What I paid: $32 ⠀ 🤔What I think: This restaurant is arguably one of my favorites in the city. They only serve salad, steak (cooked to your preference), and fries for a fixed price of $32. That being said, this steak is cooked to perfection and what really makes entrecôte so special is the sauce that they serve with the steak. If you like steak, I would highly recommend trying this restaurant.
New York Locals
The Parkgate is the newest gastropub in the West Village, combining modern design with a cozy, welcoming vibe. 🍻 Located at the corner of West 4th Street and Jones, owners Ciarán Harrison & Chris Buckle have created a stylish yet approachable spot known for great food, wine, cocktails, and, of course, the perfect pint of Guinness. 🍔🍷 With roots in Ciarán’s 100-year Irish hospitality heritage, The Parkgate offers a thoughtfully curated atmosphere, blending music, art, and top-notch service. Whether you’re grabbing a drink or enjoying a meal, The Parkgate makes every visit feel like home. 🏡✨
Eater
Next Stop Vegan Next Stop Vegan, a Downtown Brooklyn restaurant, specializes in meat and dairy-free Dominican food that has garnered local fanfare (the business was recently the subject of a Righteous Eats video as well). The team recently also added a Greenpoint sibling.
Infatuation
Shrine Bar Harlem A few of Harlem’s storied jazz spots are still around, but there are also some exciting spaces in the neighborhood where new artists are keeping the genre interesting. At the Shrine, you can listen to jazz and funk in a vibey purple room almost every night, and most of it is more danceable than the stuff at your dad’s favorite jazz club. This is a low-key spot where you’ll discover stray records in the crevices and mingle with a fun, younger crowd.
Melanie Yu
NYC Must Try: Okatte Tanto This spot is a traditional and authentic Japanese joint serving fresh sushi and a variety of elevated cold and hot Japanese dishes. I really enjoyed their popular pork katsu sando, mentai udon, and fried oysters that they make right in front of you. Their drinks are also fantastic - I’d recommend getting the Shochu Woolong and the Summer Orange! Pro tip: If you want to get the $34 hidden menu item tuna bone, call ahead to make a reservation - they only serve the tuna bone from 5-6:45pm and it’s first reserved, first served with their limited stock per day. What I Ordered: - Tuna Bone [must-try] - Mentai Udon [must-try] - Pork Katsu Sando - Fried Oysters - Octopus marinated with wasabi - Shochu Woolong - drink - Summer Orange - drink
Rebecca | NYC
I've been hearing and seeing Chicha San Chen everywhere and wanted to try it today! It's definitely more expensive than most boba, but the drink was so refreshing. I've never had osmanthus oolong tea before and I love it. After eating so many oily foods in other stores, it was great to cleanse my palette! The tapioca was also very chewy and awesome. What we ordered: 🧋honey osmanthus oolong tea with tapioca pearls
See alsoNetworking Events and Trending Community Gatherings in Great Neck Near NYC
Time Out New York
Taqueria Ramirez What is it? Tania Apolinar and Giovanni Cervantes were on the hunt for a Mexican-styled taqueria in New York. When they didn’t find one to their liking, they opened their own. Even with a few years under its belt, Taqueria Ramirez keeps constant lines out the door, with hungry New Yorkers raving for a taste of all things porky and placed in a taco. Why we love it? We recommend trying the Suadero, a cut of meat found between the lower flank and the sirloin that is popular in Mexico. But if it sells out, which it often does, order the Campechano which comes with a mix of suadero and longaniza.
Infatuation
Cositas Ricas If you’re standing under a large, multicolored cow suspended over Roosevelt Avenue, you’ve come to the right place. It’s hard not to be in a good mood at this neon-lit, 24-hour Colombian diner in Jackson Heights, open since 2000. The hand-painted cartoon characters, peace signs, and Postobon bottle caps make an immediately warm impression. So does the service. The staff are eager to offer recommendations, which is highly appreciated, given that the extensive, photo-filled menu ranges from trout, to chicken fingers, to ham-and-cheese sandwiches.
Infatuation
Tabú didn’t have to make their food delicious. The Tulum-themed Williamsburg spot could have just relied on their huge outdoor area covered with parasols, a DJ stand with its own water-feature as a backdrop, and their excellent cocktails to bring people in the door. But the food is good, bordering on great—making this a clubstaurant that’s as exciting on a Wednesday as it is on Saturday. On any of those evenings, you’ll find dancers in flowy costumes flitting between the fronded plants and two stone bars. And while we wouldn’t be surprised if the owners seriously considered filling the courtyard in with white sand at some point, there’s plenty of attention to detail in the seafood-oriented kitchen too. Tabú serves mostly smaller portioned food, so order a bunch of things, including a couple of tacos, a raw fish dish or two, and some stellar chips and guacamole.
Eater
Son Del North In places like Los Angeles, it’s much easier to find burritos without rice: Not so much in New York. Son del North opened last month, a tiny takeout counter that’s already cementing itself as a welcomed addition to New York’s burrito scene, thanks in part to its homemade Sonora-style flour tortillas. The kitchen is under the direction of Annisha Garcia, from Tijuana, Mexico, who was the 2021 Chopped Grand Champion.
Eater
Son Del North In places like Los Angeles, it’s much easier to find burritos without rice: Not so much in New York. Son del North opened last month, a tiny takeout counter that’s already cementing itself as a welcomed addition to New York’s burrito scene, thanks in part to its homemade Sonora-style flour tortillas. The kitchen is under the direction of Annisha Garcia, from Tijuana, Mexico, who was the 2021 Chopped Grand Champion.
Secret NYC
Open House New York Experience the unique opportunity to explore over 200 of New York City’s iconic buildings and landmarks during the Open House New York (OHNY) weekend from October 18th to 2oth. This event, celebrating its 22nd year, offers a mix of in-person tours, self-guided explorations, and digital content of skyscrapers, power plants, artist studios, and everything in between. The festival is 100% free to the public, making it accessible for everyone. Discover more about the event and plan your visit on the Open House New York website.
Infatuation
Bubby's Starting with the food, it’s my favorite brunch spot in the city. Whenever I have people visiting I always take them there. They have the best gluten-free pancakes in the world—my friends always say they’re just as good as the regular ones, they’re so sweet and fluffy and yummy. But I really like that their bathroom is gender neutral with floor to ceiling doors, and they also have a photo booth. It’s so fun when you’re out with friends and you want to take photos.
See alsoCocktails in Great Neck: Discover Local Cocktail Bars & Trending Rooftop Bars Near NYC Nightlife
Little Kid Big City NEW YORK
Feast of Fun 🇮🇹 The feast is back! The San Gennaro festival returns again on the 12th of September to the streets of Little Italy. This marks its 98th year. Come hungry! This 10-day celebration is NYC’s most popular and longest running street fairs, and is well known for its delicious food and party atmosphere. The celebration includes parades and processions, live musical entertainment, carnival games, rides, and amusements, food delicacies, and most importantly, dining at Little Italy’s famous restaurants and cafes. WHEN: ⏰Thursday September 12 through Sunday September 22. FREE to walk the festival. Food and carnival rides have a fee. (Bring cash!) DONT MISS: 📕The Grand Procession parade featuring marching bands, floats, revelers and the statue of San Gennaro. The parade happens on Sept 14th at 2pm. FOR KIDS: 🎈After you fill those bellies, head over to the carnival rides and games that are set up specifically for the event. There are typically 4-5 rides offered. Rides change slightly each year, but there is always a Ferris wheel! Visit at night to see the Ferris wheel glow in rainbow hues.
Infatuation
Royal Rib House Royal Rib House has been serving legendary BBQ in Bed-Stuy for over 30 years, and the consistently long lines will attest to that. After closing in 2019 and reopening in 2022, they’re more popular than ever, and the food is still good enough to induce amnesia about the wait time. If you put ribs in the name of your restaurant, they better be impressive. These ones are slathered with a hot sauce-based BBQ sauce and fall off the bone. Your next priorities should be the smoky chopped BBQ, moist rotisserie chicken painted with a tangy sauce, and peach cobbler that everyone in line will recommend to you.
Discover Local Experiences in Harlem, NYC
When it comes to delightful experiences near NYC, Harlem offers a blend of rich culture, historic charm, and vibrant local life. The diverse community and numerous opportunities for exploration make it a must-visit. At Kikihub, you can tap into anonymous local chats to uncover hidden gems and real opinions, bringing you closer to authentic Harlem experiences.
Uncover Harlem’s Dining Scene
Food enthusiasts will find Harlem a paradise, as the neighborhood boasts an array of restaurants and eateries that promise a culinary adventure. Begin at Sylvia’s Restaurant, renowned for its soul food. Here, you can savor fried chicken, collard greens, and other comfort dishes that speak to the heart of Harlem’s culinary heritage.
Don't miss out on Red Rooster Harlem, where Chef Marcus Samuelsson blends traditional Southern cuisine with modern twists. The atmosphere here is both lively and inviting, perfect for an evening outing. Dive into their cornbread, Helga's Meatballs, and finish with the communal vibe at the bar area, often filled with live jazz music.
Engage in Thrilling Nightlife
Harlem’s nightlife is electric with its assortment of trendy spots where you can dance, listen to live music, or simply unwind. Make your way to the Harlem Nights lounge for a spirited night out. Its intimate setting with high-quality cocktails and alluring ambiance creates a perfect night spot.
If live jazz is what you seek, don’t miss the iconic Apollo Theater. Known for launching the careers of many legendary musicians, this venue remains a centerpiece for cultural entertainment. Chat with locals via Kikihub to get tickets and insider tips on the best upcoming shows.
Socialize at Harlem's Hidden Gems
For those looking to mix and mingle, Harlem provides an array of spots perfect for socializing. Spend an afternoon at Marcus Garvey Park, where local festivals, performances, and communal events bring people together. This park also offers a fantastic view of the surrounding cityscape — a prime spot for both relaxation and social activities.
Ginny’s Supper Club, tucked beneath Red Rooster, is another excellent place to socialize. This speakeasy-style venue combines great food, drink, and music, providing a backdrop for an unforgettable night with friends old and new.
Exploring Artistic and Cultural Highlights
Harlem’s rich cultural tapestry is woven with historic sites and modern artistic hubs. Start at the Studio Museum in Harlem, which showcases contemporary art by artists of African descent. The exhibitions change frequently, providing fresh perspectives and remarkable insights into the local and broader cultural milieu.
Next, stroll down Strivers’ Row, an area known for its stunning architecture and historic significance. This spot offers a peek into Harlem's architectural past and is ideal for a leisurely walk where you can soak in the heritage beauty of the neighborhood. Use Kikihub to find local photography enthusiasts who can show you the best angles and shots.
Find Peace Among Outdoor Havens
For those seeking tranquility amidst the urban buzz, Harlem hosts several green spaces that offer a refreshing retreat. Head over to Riverside Park for a serene experience along the Hudson River. The park’s pathways are perfect for leisurely strolls or cycling, and the beautiful gardens are a haven for nature lovers.
Morningside Park offers another green escape with its cliffs, trees, and scenic overlooks. This park also features playgrounds and recreational facilities, making it an ideal spot for families or anyone looking to ease away from the hectic city life.
Embrace the Local Spirit
Harlem is not just a destination; it’s an experience. The local spirit can be felt at every corner, from the rhythmic beats of street musicians to the friendly conversations in coffee shops. Businesses in Harlem are often community-driven, and chatting with locals through Kikihub will guide you to small boutiques, family-owned cafes, and other neighborhood secrets.
Visit 133rd Street, known as “jazz corner,” where the heart of Harlem’s music scene throbs. Pop into Paris Blues on Adam Clayton Powell Jr. Boulevard for an unfiltered, authentic jazz experience. This no-cover-charge bar is a community staple, bringing together musicians and enthusiasts alike.
In Harlem, each experience offers a deeper insight into the dynamic, resilient, and creatively vibrant community that has been a cornerstone of New York City's culture. Whether you're diving into the food scene, exploring historic sites, or engaging in the lively nightlife, Harlem's local secrets will leave a lasting impression.
