Chanelle G. 
Moving to Harlem? Here’s a list of
Our Favorite Harlem Attractions,
Hot Spots, and Restaurants
- VeganHood (2100 Frederick Douglass Blvd, New York): Living by the motto “Veganized, Not Compromised,” VeganHood is rumored to serve the city’s best vegan fried chicken. Give it a try and see if all the hype is legit.
- Harlem Meer Performance Festival: Multicultural musical performances lakeside in Central Park (nearest Harlem side), this event draws thousands of attendees each summer.
- Ollin (339 E 108th St, New York): This pint-sized Mexican joint blew up on TikTok, and for good reason. The funky decor is Instagram-ready, and the menu, though small, hits the spot with tacos, chilaquiles, and tortas.
- Lavitta’s Creole (218 Malcolm X Boulevard, New York): Chef Jimmy Thomas brings a 1940s barbershop back to life as a Creole restaurant. Schooled in Creole cooking by his mom and grandmother, Jimmy serves up crawfish cakes, wild shrimp po’ boys, and beignets. With just 32 seats, it’s all about that intimate dining experience.
- Ginny’s Supper Club (310 Malcolm X Blvd, New York): Tucked beneath The Red Rooster, Ginny’s brings the spirit of 1920s speakeasies back to life. Stop by for a lively gospel brunch on Sundays or catch a live performance happening nearly every night.
- Bill’s Place (148 W 133rd St, New York): Jazz legends play in this intimate, no-frills spot where Billie Holiday was “discovered”. Bring your own booze and enjoy a close-up experience of Harlem’s jazz scene, founded by saxophonist Bill Saxton.
- Sylvia’s Restaurant (328 Malcolm X Blvd, New York): Dishing up Southern comfort food, with all the classics covered. Think fried chicken and waffles, BBQ short ribs, catfish, and peach cobbler. And if you’re in town on a Sunday, don’t miss the Gospel Brunch—good eats with a side of live soul performances.
- Shakespeare in Marcus Garvey Park: A quintessential New York summer tradition, the Classical Theatre of Harlem has been bringing Shakespeare to life in Harlem’s Marcus Garvey Park for over a decade. This year’s performance? A remix of ‘A Midsummer Night’s Dream’.
- Apollo Theater (253 W 125th St, New York): This legendary venue has been the launchpad for some of the greatest Black talent since 1914. From James Brown to Lauryn Hill, the Apollo is the heartbeat of Harlem’s rich musical legacy.
- Sugar Monk (2292 Frederick Douglass Blvd, New York): A candle-lit cocktail lounge serving up a high-end drink menu in an art-filled space.
- Bethel Gospel Assembly (2-26 E 120th St, New York): This gospel service is filled with worship, singing, dancing, and pure joy. Everyone’s welcome, and the energy is infectious.
- Harlem Week: This annual festival celebrates Harlem’s vibrant heritage and diversity, in particular the African, Caribbean, and Hispanic histories of the area. Enjoy live music, dance performances, local cuisine, and panel discussions.
