Cafe 22: A Timeless Harlem Gem with Soulful Food and Great Service

Cafe 22 Introduce

Cafe 22, a beloved institution in Harlem, is more than just a place to eat—it's a piece of the neighborhood's soul. While it might be a small spot, it has a big heart, offering New Yorkers a taste of home-cooked comfort food that is hard to find elsewhere. This cafe is a testament to the classic "go-to" spot, a place where locals can find delicious, well-prepared meals without the fuss of a touristy establishment. Its charm lies in its authenticity, from the simple decor to the hearty portions of food.

The restaurant has earned a reputation for its genuinely delicious food and friendly service. The menu is packed with comforting classics that are praised for their flavor and quality. One reviewer noted that they chose Cafe 22 for their 22nd wedding anniversary and "couldn't be happier" with the experience. The salmon cakes, collards, mac & cheese, and chicken and waffles are all highlighted as "delicious." This level of quality and care is a core part of what makes Cafe 22 a standout destination for those who appreciate soulful, well-made food.

The atmosphere at Cafe 22 is as authentic as the food it serves. It has a classic "Harlem attitude," as one reminiscing patron puts it—unpretentious and real. Despite a mention of slow service at times, many people found the experience to be worth the wait, with staff who are incredibly nice and accommodating. This is the kind of place where you can feel the history and the community in every corner. The warm hospitality and delicious food make it a worthy trip uptown for anyone seeking an authentic New York dining experience.

Cafe 22 is located at 2309 Adam Clayton Powell Jr Blvd, New York, NY 10030, placing it squarely in the heart of Harlem. This major street is a central part of the neighborhood, making the cafe a well-known and easily accessible spot for residents and visitors alike.

While the cafe itself may be small, its location is a major convenience. It is within walking distance of several subway stations, including those on the 2 and 3 lines, making it easy to reach from all over the city. Its position on Adam Clayton Powell Jr Blvd also means it is well-served by bus routes. For those who choose to drive, street parking is available, though it can be a challenge as with any part of a bustling city. The fact that the restaurant has an "A rating" from the Department of Health adds to the confidence in its quality and cleanliness, making it well worth the trip.

Cafe 22 offers a wide array of delicious comfort food, specializing in classic American and soul food dishes.

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Hearty American Classics: The menu is packed with satisfying comfort foods that are perfect for any time of the day. Appetizers include classic items like French Fries, Chicken Fingers, and Buffalo Wings. These quick bites are great for sharing or for a satisfying snack.

Specialty Omelets: For breakfast and brunch lovers, the omelets are a major highlight. They come with a side of grits or French fries and feature delicious combinations like Shrimp and Cheese, Chicken & Cheese, and the unique Cheese Burger Omelette. These dishes are perfect for a soulful start to your day.

Flavorful Sides and Desserts: The sides menu offers a unique twist on classics, with options like Cheese Grits, Garlic Grits, and Broccoli Grits. For dessert, the selection is a dream, with homemade treats like Banana Pudding, Bean Pies, and a variety of cakes, ensuring a perfect sweet finish to your meal.

Coffee and Drinks: The cafe also offers coffee, providing a great beverage to pair with your meal or to enjoy on its own. A customer review also highlights the "great" bottled lemonade, a perfect refreshing option.

Cafe 22 has several key features and highlights that make it a cherished spot in the Harlem community.

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Delicious and Authentic Food: The food is the main attraction, with consistent praise for its quality and flavor. Dishes like chicken and waffles, catfish, and sweet potato pancakes are a must-try for anyone seeking an authentic taste of Harlem soul food. The braised collards and mac & cheese are also highlighted as incredibly delicious.

Friendly and Welcoming Staff: Despite some reviews mentioning a "Harlem attitude," which is a playful nod to a certain local style, the staff is described as incredibly nice and great hosts. This welcoming atmosphere is a major highlight, making every patron feel like a part of the community.

A True Local Gem: Cafe 22 is a place for locals, not tourists. This gives it an authentic, no-frills charm that is highly valued. The fact that it's a go-to spot for many in the community, especially after church on Sundays, speaks volumes about its place in the neighborhood.

BYOB Friendly: One review mentions that they were able to bring their own bottle of wine, a unique and convenient feature that enhances the dining experience and makes a special occasion even more personal.

For all inquiries, you can reach Cafe 22 at their physical location or via phone.

Address: 2309 Adam Clayton Powell Jr Blvd, New York, NY 10030, USAPhone: (212) 281-8500

Choosing Cafe 22 is a decision to embrace an authentic, soul-filled dining experience in the heart of Harlem. The food is, without a doubt, the number one reason to visit. The classic dishes are prepared with a care and flavor that brings a sense of comfort and satisfaction. From the savory chicken and waffles to the delicious catfish and sweet potato pancakes, every meal is a treat.

The service, while it may be at a more leisurely pace at times, is genuine and friendly, with staff who go out of their way to make you feel welcome. The restaurant's role as a neighborhood go-to spot, free from the pretense of a typical tourist destination, adds to its charm. For New Yorkers looking for a delicious, soulful, and authentic meal, Cafe 22 is a fantastic option that is well worth the trip to experience a true taste of Harlem.

Cafe 22 Services

Appetizers
Cheese Fries $3.00
French Fries $2.00
Chicken Fingers $5.00
Buffalo Wings $5.00
Buffalo Shrimps $7.00

Special Omelet
Served With Grits Or French Fries
Cheese Omelette $4.00
Ham, Bacon Or Sausage $6.00
Western $6.00
Shrimp And Cheese $8.00
Chicken & Cheese $7.00
Broccoli & Cheddar $5.00
Tomato $4.00
Cheese Burger Omelette $6.00

Sides
Cheese Grits $3.00
Garlic Grits $3.00
Spinach Grits $3.00
Broccoli Grits $3.00
Tomatoes Grits $3.00

Desserts
Hot Apple Pie 4 & Ice Cream $4.00
Bean Pies $4.00
Cheese Cake $4.00
Coconut Cake $3.00
Carrot Cake $3.00
German Chocolate $3.00
Banana Pudding $4.00

Cafe 22 Details

Service options
Delivery

Offerings
Coffee

Cafe 22 Photos

Cafe 22 Location

Cafe 22

New York New York County New York Adam Clayton Powell Junior Boulevard

2309 Adam Clayton Powell Jr Blvd, New York, NY 10030, USA

Cafe 22 Reviews

An average rating of ★4.7 from 7 user reviews.★ 5★ 4★ 3★ 2★ 1

This place is long gone, but I'm reminiscing. It was small and they took forever to bring your food. The staff was not overly warm, but I went there after church most Sundays, my go to was sweet potato pancakes, catfish, and eggs. No tourist, no Sunday brunch group , just good food and ole Harlem attitude, lol. I hope the brothers are doing well.
August 03 · Asha I
We had our 22nd wedding anniversary at Cafe 22 last night and we couldn't be happier! The service was terrific and they couldn't have been nicer hearing how we chose their restaurant on our special day. Their bottled lemonade is also great! I don't know the managers name but he and Janet were great hosts! We had the salmon cakes, collards and mac & cheese and the chicken and waffles - delicious and a treat! We were able to bring a nice bottle of wine which we purchased across the street. Restaurant has an A rating and the decor could use a little uplift but well worth the trip uptown! P.S. The bottled lemonade is great!
December 30 · Joyce Frost
I enjoy the food and service in theatmosphere
October 04 · shawn gary
Great food!
February 17 · Lexus Theus
great breakfest
April 25 · Maya