Ariadne 
Moving to Harlem? Here’s a list of
Our Favorite Harlem Attractions,
Hot Spots, and Restaurants
- Schomburg Center for Research in Black Culture (515 Malcolm X Blvd, New York): A branch of the New York Public Library, this research library and archive is dedicated to preserving and documenting the experiences of people of African descent worldwide.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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’.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
