Lenox Lounge

- 288 Malcolm X Blvd, New York, NY 10027

Lenox Lounge is a name that resonates with the rich and storied history of Harlem. While the original, iconic bar at 288 Malcolm X Blvd is no longer a functioning establishment, its legacy as a historic and cultural landmark is a major part of New York City’s narrative. The name itself brings to mind the golden age of jazz and the Harlem Renaissance, when legendary artists and intellectuals frequented the spot. The original bar, which opened in 1939, was a cornerstone of the neighborhood's vibrant nightlife, known for its distinct Art Deco style and its famous Zebra Room. Though the physical location has changed, the spirit of Lenox Lounge remains an important part of Harlem's identity. This article aims to inform users about the historical significance of the location and what made it a celebrated destination in New York's cultural scene, based on the information provided and available public data about its history.

The historic Lenox Lounge was located at 288 Malcolm X Blvd, New York, NY 10027, USA. This address places it squarely in the heart of Harlem, on a major avenue that is a central part of the neighborhood’s character and identity. Malcolm X Blvd, also known as Lenox Avenue, has always been a key thoroughfare and a hub of cultural activity, making the bar's location ideal for drawing both local residents and visitors. Public transportation in this part of New York City is highly accessible, with multiple subway and bus lines serving the area, making it easy for people from all boroughs to get to and from the location. While the bar itself is no longer open at this address, the area remains a vibrant destination.

Based on historical menus associated with the name Lenox Lounge, the establishment offered a wide range of food and drink options, making it more than just a place to get a drink.

• Appetizers: The menu featured a variety of starters, including classic bar food like Chicken Wings and Chicken Fingers, as well as more unique options such as Fried Cornmeal Catfish Fingers and Chilli Grilled Shrimp. The Buster's Sampler was a popular choice for groups, offering a taste of multiple items.
• Soups and Salads: For lighter fare, there were choices like Seafood Chowder and a standard Caesar Salad.
• Entrees: The food menu was surprisingly extensive for a bar, with a strong focus on comforting, Southern-inspired dishes. Main courses included various preparations of shrimp, such as Jumbo Shrimp and Shrimp Scampi, as well as hearty options like Chicken And Waffle, Baby Back Ribs, and Sirloin Steak.
• Sides: A great meal is nothing without the sides, and the menu offered a solid list of choices, from traditional items like French Fries and Mac & Cheese to Southern staples like Collard Greens and Candied Yams.
• Desserts: To top off the meal, guests could enjoy a selection of pies, including Sweet P's Sweet Potato Pie and Sweet P's Pecan Pie, as well as Bread Pudding.

While the physical location may have changed, the historical significance and features of the original Lenox Lounge are what truly made it a legendary destination.

• A Cultural Landmark: Lenox Lounge was a cornerstone of Harlem's history, attracting jazz legends like Billie Holiday, Miles Davis, and John Coltrane. It was also a known haunt for literary greats such as James Baldwin and Langston Hughes.
• Iconic Interior: The bar was famous for its distinctive Art Deco design, which included the renowned Zebra Room with its unique zebra-print walls. This iconic interior served as a backdrop for a variety of media, including the movie Shaft and Marc Anthony's album cover.
• Live Music Scene: The bar was a celebrated venue for live jazz, providing a platform for both established and emerging artists. This commitment to live music was a defining feature that cemented its status as a premier jazz club.
• Full Bar: As a bar, it was well-stocked and a popular spot for grabbing a drink. While specific drink menus are not available, it was known for its full bar service and was the kind of place where you could simply come and have a drink.
• Restroom: The venue offered a restroom for the convenience of its patrons.

Choosing to visit the area where Lenox Lounge once stood is a decision rooted in an appreciation for history and culture. While you can no longer walk into the historic bar for a drink, the legacy of the place makes the location itself a point of interest. What was worth choosing about the original Lenox Lounge was its ability to transport you to a different era. It wasn't just a bar; it was a living piece of New York history. The ambiance, which was a mix of Art Deco elegance and Harlem grit, made it a unique and authentic experience. The fact that you could be in the same room where Billie Holiday once performed or where Langston Hughes may have written was a powerful draw.

The menu was also a significant part of the experience, offering hearty, satisfying food that complemented the drinks and the atmosphere. The combination of classic American dishes and Southern comfort food, like Chicken And Waffle and Mac & Cheese, provided a wholesome and enjoyable dining experience. The presence of a full bar meant that whether you wanted to have a full dinner or just a drink, your needs would be met. The bar's cultural significance, its role as a film location, and its enduring status as a symbol of Harlem's artistic past are what made it so special. Today, the location serves as a reminder of the neighborhood's powerful cultural heritage and the importance of preserving historic institutions that shape the identity of a community.

Based on available public data, the provided contact information for the historic location is:

Address: 288 Malcolm X Blvd, New York, NY 10027, USA

Phone: (434) 203-8339

Lenox Lounge

288 Malcolm X Blvd, New York, NY 10027, USA