Harlem's Hidden Foodie Gems: Insider Local Secrets
Food Baby
Go to Time and Tide for an amazing meal of seafood in all forms! The menu has sections for Raw Fish, Small Fish and Big Fish, with great dishes in each one, and you obviously need to start with that giant Goldfish cracker. 👶🏽🐠 👌🏽👌🏽👌🏽👌🏽
Time Out New York
Grand Central Terminal gains a massive French brasserie! However, this historic landmark has given us plenty of reasons to bide our time there... This month, the terminal gained another tenant, sure to ease the trials of traveling with its Parisian charms. Grand Brasserie took over the former City Winery space on October 8. Designed by the Rockwell Group, it seamlessly blends into the historic architecture of Vanderbilt Hall and mimics the various sidewalk cafes found in Paris—the front of the restaurant welcomes with towering greenery and black and white bistro chairs. Passing through the wrought iron bar entryway, the main dining room houses red leather banquettes and enough chairs to seat a staggering 300 souls. As if that wasn’t enough, the 100-seat Green Room is decorated with black and white photos of New York’s past and features a grand marble bar with bottles that climb up to the ceiling.
Foodie_NYC
I had a great dinner at Kalye (“Street” in Tagalog). It’s an amazing, affordable Filipino restaurant on Broome Street specializing in Filipino street food. Kalye, a small, unassuming restaurant, delivered an amazing parade of unique, delicious food based on the owner’s chef heritage, as seen on the restaurant’s page. “Our menu is full of Rob’s cherished family recipes, offering a variety of mouth-watering dishes that will make you feel like you’ve traveled straight to the Philippines. From our famous Ube Sliders to other traditional Filipino favorites, every bite is a celebration of our culture and love for good food. Whether you’re here to dine in, taking food to go, or having it delivered to your doorstep, Kalye makes enjoying Filipino food easy and convenient.” Totally enjoyable unique experience. Salamat, Chef 💖🙏🏼💖
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
Natasha Surti
Sundays are for Brunch 🥂 🍽Where I went: Bubby’s ✔️What I got: Fried Chicken & Pancakes 💰What I paid: $25 ⠀ 🤔What I think: A group of us happened to stumble upon Bubby’s while walking to the pier on the west side last summer and we knew we wanted to go here for brunch when we walked past someone eating this very dish! The chicken was seasoned perfectly and had just the right amount of breading on the outside so the batter on the outside wasn’t too heavy. The pancakes were cooked to perfection as well and the sweetness of them with the maple syrup complemented the fried chicken.
Food Baby
One of the best restaurants to open this year! CHLOE is back in the SAME location where she originally opened By Chloe. Your best new lunch / quick dinner option in the area, so many things here are so good. The Butternut Nachos are a must to start, the Classic Burger is one of the best vegan burgers in town, and every salad is so good, especially the Quinoa Taco Salad. And all the cookies are a must for dessert! Will be here for lunch all the time. 👶🏽🥗 👌🏽👌🏽👌🏽👌🏽
Melanie Yu
Foxface Natural is a natural continuation of Foxface sandwiches. We're going wild and natural! During Halloween week 10/30-11/3 Foxface Natural will be offering a five course special wild game menu (with an optional blood & guts focus for Halloween).
See also
Dining in Great Neck: Discover Local Experiences, Foodie Favorites & Trending Dinner Spots Near NYC
Cheryl
Kyuramen recently released new menu items and the presentation is gorgeous. They were so delicious. Everything on the yakitori platter was so flavorful. You can never go wrong with a bowl of ramen, but why settle for one broth when you can have two? • honey comb platter • yin-yang bowl • yakitori platter • seafood kamameshi rice • eel kamameshi • matcha pudding w/ red bean • thai iced tea • amazing lemonade 📍KYURAMEN - Flushing (they have other locations as well!)
Natasha Surti
So MUSH ROOM in my ❤️ for you 🍄 🍽Where I went: Barbounia ✔️What I got: Wild Mushroon Khachapuri 💰What I paid: $23 ⠀ 🤔What I think: For Galentine’s day last weekend, I went to Barbounia with some friends. All 3 of us ended up getting the mushroom khachapuri because we had never had it. This was basically kind of like a flatbread filled with fresh mozzarella, ricotta, truffle paste, sage. It also had 2 slow poached eggs on top of it. It was super decadent and left me stuffed for the rest of the day. Would definitely recommend trying this dish if you haven’t already.
New York Locals
Charoen Krung Thai is bringing the vibrant flavors of Bangkok’s famous Charoen Krung Road to Midtown East! 🇹🇭 Founded by Avirut Lerddirekrat, this restaurant pays homage to one of Thailand’s oldest and most culturally rich streets, blending traditional Thai recipes with modern Asian flair. ✨ Signature dishes like Hunk-Lay, Hor Mok, and Nam-Yar Crabmeat take inspiration from Bangkok’s renowned street food, offering an authentic taste of Thailand right here in NYC. 🍲✨Whether you’re craving bold flavors or a welcoming dining experience, Charoen Krung Thai is the perfect spot to enjoy a fusion of heritage and innovation in the heart of the city. 💛
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…
Cheryl
This is the perfect spot to eat, drink, and watch a game! With their vintage decor, it makes the perfect cozy spot to catch up with friends. They also have trivia night on thursdays at 7:30pm at their park slope location. don’t miss out on their oysters especially during happy hour. the oysters were fresh and the honey garlic wings are a must! Happy hour is monday-thursday 3pm-7pm • pineapple sunset • oysters • honey garlic wings • bg’s famous burger • homemade guacamole • fried shrimp • bacon mac ‘n cheese 📍The Beer Garage
Cheryl
This spot has become one of my favorite ramen spots in midtown, NYC. they’ve been opened for a few years and I’ve been missing out 😭. I felt so welcomed and warm dining here. every worker was so sweet and kind. everything was delicious. every appetizer was so good. you must get the chicken karaage. it was soo juicy on the inside. their ramen was such a bowl of comfort. the cheesecake is a must. it didn’t feel heavy! I can’t wait to come back 🫶🏻 • yuzu fizz $8 • strawberry matcha $8 • goku salad $10 • shrimp lollipops $12 • octopus takoyaki $10 • karaage chicken $10 • tonkotsu ramen $19 • spicy kimchi ramen $19 + pork cha-shu $6 • japanese cheesecake $7 📍Ramen Goku
Food Baby
Always love a reason to go back to the excellent Stretch Pizza, and the latest one is this great Happy Hour menu, Tuesday - Thursday 4-6pm, and also the amazing “The Bear” special, like an Italian beef in pizza form. Aside from their staple pizza, you have to try new items. This is one of our favorite spots to indulge in delicious cuisine. 👶🏽🍕 👌🏽👌🏽👌🏽👌🏽
See alsoDiscover the Vibrant Community in Great Neck Near NYC: Local Insights, Trending Discussions & Anonymous Posts
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
Wow, I had a great evening at RAS, an Ethiopian-inspired vegan restaurant in New York’s West Village. RAS is led by chefs Romeo and Milka Regalli, who created an innovative, holistic, health-driven vegan menu inspired by their Ethiopian roots. The servings were flavorful, delicious, and filling. I loved the hamburger—one of the best I’ve had. Had I not known, I would have never guessed it was a non-meat deliciousness. The food was followed by great cocktails. The service was impeccable, and the vibe was incredible. The amazing experience truly reflected the restaurant’s mission statement as stated on their site: OUR MISSION Every plate is a canvas, every flavor a narrative. Beyond serving food, we craft memories. With each bite, feel our dedication to warmth and genuine connection, creating moments that linger long after the meal concludes.
Foodie_NYC
WOW! I had an amazing experience at Chef Guo, a world-renowned expert in Chinese imperial cuisine. The chef invited me to the first tasting of his plant-based menu, and it was an absolutely amazing experience. Servers with white gloves, a restaurant that felt more like a palace, and a meal where every item was a perfect celebration for the taste buds. All that with five different kinds of tea servings, a continuous aroma designed by the chef, and a dessert served in an eggshell. While I was the first to experience this meal, the chef hasn’t set a price for it yet, but it is planned to be very affordable. The plant-based tasting menu is planned to be available in October. Definitely one of the best dining experiences I’ve had in the city, clearly a Michelin star-worthy restaurant.
Melanie Yu
In the heart of New York City resides Thirteen Water, a sushi bar that promises an intimate and casual dining experience. This gem offers a variety of sushi dishes that will leave your taste buds satisfied. With the option for reservations and catering services, Thirteen Water ensures a seamless dining experience for all. While dogs are not allowed, the friendly staff and delicious food make up for it. Whether you're a sushi aficionado or a novice, Thirteen Water is a must-try for any food lover in the Big Apple.
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!
Foodie_NYC
CLASSIC ❗️ I had a fabulous evening at Empire Steakhouse, such a timeless establishment. The food was incredible—the steak literally melted in my mouth. The vibe was amazing, so classic that I almost expected Ol’ Blue Eyes, Frank Sinatra, to walk in any minute… Every part of the meal was a masterclass in classic flavors, and the service was equally impeccable. A real class of its own 🌟
See alsoNetworking Events and Trending Community Gatherings in Great Neck Near NYC
Foodie_NYC
Pring, Thai Restaurant. Had such a great evening at Pring, an intimate Thai restaurant in the heart of Chelsea. 🌿 Definitely not your run-of-the-mill Thai spot—Pring offered unique, innovative dishes with refreshing twists on traditional Thai flavors. 🍲✨ The vibe was cozy, intimate and relaxed, and the service was impeccable. Definitely a place I’d want to come back to!
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.
Foodie_NYC
Pring, Thai Restaurant. Had such a great evening at Pring, an intimate Thai restaurant in the heart of Chelsea. 🌿 Definitely not your run-of-the-mill Thai spot—Pring offered unique, innovative dishes with refreshing twists on traditional Thai flavors. 🍲✨ The vibe was cozy, intimate and relaxed, and the service was impeccable. Definitely a place I’d want to come back to!
Eater
This Restaurateur Helped Define a Brooklyn Era: Now, He’s on to Manhattan! After all these years, what is it that pulls serial Brooklyn restaurateur, Andrew Tarlow, across the river? It turns out it’s the stunning, 2,400 square-foot space with a wood-fired oven where I Trulli resided since 1994. Rustic Italian newcomer Borgo opens for dinner, on Friday, September 27. Borgo is the first Tarlow restaurant to open in a decade since Greenpoint’s Achilles Heel. Before that, he opened Diner over 20 years ago, before Williamsburg was what it is today. He’s also behind Marlow & Sons, Roman’s, and She Wolf, along with natural wine shop, Stranger Wines. The 140-seat spot, debuts as a trattoria with a wood-burning oven, an open hearth, and a martini cart. “It’s really epic,” Tarlow says of the hearth in a walk-through. The space features two large rooms with arched entryways, along with the original I Trulli bar, and an 800-square-foot back garden. The food parallels a bit with Roman’s in Fort Greene, featuring seasonal Italian dishes and straightforward Italian mains. Yet the size of the restaurants allows the kitchen to be a bit more ambitious. “The bigger kitchen and the bigger facilities allow me to do more: It’s like the alligators grow as big as their tank kind of thing.”
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.
Natasha Surti
Ramen love with you ❤️ 🍽Where I went: Ichiran ✔️What I got: Classic Tonkotsu Ramen 💰What I paid: $18.90 ⠀ 🤔What I think: The setup of the restaurant in itself is extremely unique as they have individual booths where you have to order by filling out a form. They use this setup because they want the people who come to their restaurant to be able to focus on the flavor of the ramen without any distractions. Ichiran only serves tonkatsu ramen, and they've clearly mastered it. The broth is rich and perfectly seasoned, the pork is tender and tasty, the noodles are made to your texture preferences (here we went with firm), and of course the egg just adds an extra layer of flavor to the dish. Overall one of the better bowls of ramen you can get in NYC.
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
See alsoCocktails in Great Neck: Discover Local Cocktail Bars & Trending Rooftop Bars Near NYC Nightlife
Melanie Yu
NYC Must Try: Dashi Okume Dashi Okume is both a store and a restaurant cafe packed into one beautifully minimalist but intricately put together building in the most popular part of Brooklyn! It comes from a Tokyo location that’s been around in the Tokyo location in the Tsukiji Fish Market since the 1870s. Walking in, you’ll see a cute DIY high quality dashi-making shop in the front of the store and a lifestyle shop Cibone selling upscale tea sets, kitchenware, and other traditional Japanese work on the right. Walking toward the back of the building, you’ll find a small cafe area selling only Teishoku (a meal set) that comes with your select tea, fish, rice, Kyuri no Asazuke (Japanese cucumber pickles), miso soup, and Kobachi (sides of the day) priced anywhere from $35-$150+ depending on your choice of specially prepared fish. I generally don’t even prefer to eat cooked fish but it was absolutely mind-blowing how delicious everything was, and I left so full but not bloated AT ALL because they only use additive-free ingredients - love everything here! What I ordered in my teishoku set meal: - Haiboshi Saba (because they were out of stock with the most popular Saikyo Zuke!) - Nasu Agebitashi: deep-fried juicy eggplant soaked in their in-house dashi - Tomato Tosazu Zuke: tomato pickled in a sweet vinegar, soy sauce, and their in-house dashi - Kabocha Nitsuke: simmered kabocha squash - Hojicha Tea Bonuses - I got to try my friend’s sides too: - Nikujaga: gently stewed pork, carrots, and potatoes in sweetened soy sauce - Donko Shiitake Umani: dried donko shiitake simmered in lightly sweet soy sauce
Eater
Sunday C&C is located in the Bowery Market, a permanent home for this concept first launched at Smorgasburg. Owner Christian Torres is a one-man operation serving up Latin American vegan food with a rotating menu. When it opened it featured Venezuelan-style arepa that’s made with sweet corn, housemade cashew “mozzarella” with ssamjang, and vegan honey, but the menu regularly changes. The market is technically open-air, but covered and shaded for weather, and there are several tables for dine-in.
Discovering the Best Local Food in Harlem
A Hub for Foodies: Harlem's Unique Dining Experience
There's no doubt that Harlem, a vibrant part of New York City, is fast becoming a must-visit destination for food enthusiasts. This culturally rich neighborhood offers a culinary landscape that reflects its storied history and diverse population. From traditional soul food to innovative new dining concepts, foodies flock here to indulge in exceptional and often exclusive tastes.
The Must-Try Trending Eateries in Harlem
Red Rooster: A Harlem Landmark
Red Rooster, helmed by celebrity chef Marcus Samuelsson, is an imperative stop for anyone curious about Harlem's culinary scene. This acclaimed restaurant is known for its modern takes on classic comfort food, blending traditional Southern flavors with contemporary flair. The renowned fried chicken, surrounded by lively jazz music and an eclectic crowd, provides an unforgettable dining experience.
Sylvia's Restaurant: A Taste of Heritage
For those in search of genuine soul food, Sylvia's Restaurant is an institution. Founded by Sylvia Woods in 1962, it has long been a go-to for Harlem locals and visitors alike. The restaurant is most famous for its fried chicken and waffles, collard greens, and cornbread. Sylvia's has a rich history and remains a place where one can savor the comfort and essence of Southern cooking amid a warm, welcoming atmosphere.
Harlem Shake: Burgers with a Twist
If you're in the mood for something more casual, Harlem Shake is the spot to hit. Known for its mouthwatering burgers and milkshakes, this retro-themed eatery offers a fun and relaxed vibe perfect for a quick but satisfying meal. Their menu features a variety of inventive burgers, including customer favorites like the classic Harlem Style Burger and the unique Chicken & Waffle Burger.
Best Brunch Spots: Harlem's Weekend Delight
Blujeen: Upscale Brunch Classics
Blujeen serves an exquisite brunch every weekend that combines the best of Southern and contemporary American cuisine. With dishes like lobster mac and cheese and blueberry-infused chicken and waffles, this restaurant promises a sophisticated yet hearty start to your day. Don’t miss their famous tropical mimosas—a perfect brunch cocktail that elevates your dining experience.
Chaiwali: A Fusion Feast
Brunch at Chaiwali is an experience worth lining up for. This charming venue blends Indian flavors with traditional brunch staples, offering dishes like masala egg scrambles and tandoori chicken wraps. The outdoor garden seating provides a peaceful retreat from the bustle of the city, making it a beloved brunch spot among Harlem locals and tourists.
Best Cocktail Spots: Sipping in Style
67 Orange Street: A Speakeasy Vibe
67 Orange Street stands out as one of Harlem's premier cocktail bars. Inspired by the Prohibition era, this intimate spot serves an array of innovative cocktails in an ambiance that transports you back in time. Some popular choices include the Brownstoner, a bourbon-based delight, and the Harlem Mule, a refreshing twist on the classic.
Solomon & Kuff's: Caribbean Flavors
For a unique cocktail experience, head to Solomon & Kuff. Specializing in rum-based drinks, this venue brings the flavors of the Caribbean to Harlem. The relaxed yet vibrant atmosphere makes it ideal for enjoying a Dark & Stormy or a Tropic Thunder, paired with delectable small plates.
Insider Tips and Local Secrets
Finding the best food in Harlem isn't just about visiting well-known spots. Local insights and secrets can lead to hidden gems that offer just as delightful, if not more, dining experiences.
Rao's: The Hard-to-Get Reservation
One of Harlem's best-kept secrets is Rao's, an Italian restaurant that’s nearly impossible to get a reservation at unless you know someone. This century-old institution is renowned for its meatballs and lemon chicken, with a reputation that transcends its limited seating. Dining at Rao's is as much about the exclusivity as it is the exceptional food.
Fish Fry Fridays at Melba's
Another local secret is Melba’s Fish Fry Fridays. Melba's, beloved for its chicken and waffles, hosts a special event every Friday that attracts locals eager to savor perfectly fried fish and seafood in a lively, relaxed atmosphere. It's an ideal opportunity to mingle with Harlem residents and experience the genuine community vibe.
Local Reviews: The Hidden Goods
On Kikihub, you can find local anonymous chats and candid reviews that reveal lesser-known but highly recommended spots. Whether it's a pop-up food stand with incredible jerk chicken or a tiny bakery with the best pastries, local insights from Kikihub users can guide you to extraordinary food experiences away from the tourist traps.
Seasonal Markets and Food Festivals
Harlem has its share of seasonal markets and food festivals where you can discover a range of local flavors. The Harlem Harvest Festival is one such event, offering artisanal foods, fresh produce, and various culinary delights from local vendors. These gatherings are perfect for uncovering unique dishes and supporting small businesses from the neighborhood.
Harlem: A Culinary Paradise
From renowned restaurants to hidden gems, Harlem offers a culinary paradise waiting to be explored. With insights from the local community and platforms like Kikihub, your gastronomic journey through this iconic NYC neighborhood promises to be both delicious and memorable.
