Melba's Restaurant

- 300 W 114th St, New York, NY 10026

In the vibrant heart of Harlem, Melba's Restaurant stands as a testament to genuine Southern hospitality and a culinary destination for locals and visitors alike. This isn’t just a place to eat; it's a lively and welcoming hub where the food is as comforting as the atmosphere is vibrant. Owned by Harlem native Melba Wilson, this establishment has become a neighborhood landmark, celebrated for bringing authentic soul food to the forefront of New York City's dining scene. Known for its delicious food, famously large portions, and a lively, fun ambiance, Melba's is the go-to spot for anyone craving a taste of the South. The restaurant's reputation for quality and its consistent ability to fill its seats, particularly on weekends, speaks volumes about its place in the community.

The food at Melba's is a true celebration of Southern comfort cuisine. The menu is packed with classic dishes that are prepared with a homemade touch and served in generous, "HUGE" portions, as one customer enthusiastically described. Each entree typically comes with two sides, ensuring that no one leaves hungry. The smothered chicken, country catfish, and the iconic chicken and waffles are among the most popular choices, each promising a rich and flavorful experience. The sides are just as important, with the mac and cheese, collard greens, and the "A$AP" sugared yams receiving high praise. While some diners have noted that certain dishes can be a bit salty, the consensus is that the food is undeniably good, reminiscent of classic comfort food found in places like Atlanta. The "A$AP sugared yams" are a particular highlight, described as "so sweet and very moist," and a definite favorite for many.

What truly sets Melba's apart is its vibrant and energetic atmosphere. It’s a place that feels alive, where the buzz of conversation and laughter creates a warm and inviting environment. While it can get "a little loud at times," it's not so loud that it disrupts conversation, making it a great spot for a social outing with friends or family. The service, while sometimes noted as slow on busy nights with missed items, is generally described as "great," with a friendly and accommodating staff. The fact that the restaurant is often packed, especially on weekends, highlights its popularity and the fact that people are willing to wait for a table. To ensure you get a seat, especially during peak hours, reservations are highly recommended. Melba's is more than just a restaurant; it's an experience that combines great food, a fun atmosphere, and a taste of Harlem's unique culture.

### Location and Accessibility

Melba's Restaurant is conveniently located at 300 W 114th St, New York, NY 10026, placing it squarely in the heart of Harlem. This prime location makes it easily accessible to both residents of the neighborhood and visitors from other parts of the city. The restaurant is well-served by New York City's public transportation network, with multiple bus routes and subway lines within walking distance. This makes it a great destination for a planned dinner or brunch without the hassle of a long commute. As for amenities, the restaurant features air conditioning and a welcoming environment. While specific accessibility details were not fully provided, its street-level presence generally ensures easy entry. For those driving, paid street parking may be available in the surrounding area, but as is typical in New York City, it is often limited. The vibrant location adds to the overall lively feel of the dining experience.

### Services Offered

• **Dine-in:** Enjoy your meal in the fun, lively, and comfortable setting of the restaurant.
• **Takeout:** Perfect for grabbing your favorite comfort food to enjoy at home.
• **Reservations:** The restaurant recommends making reservations, especially on weekends, due to its popularity.
• **Delivery:** Orders can be placed for delivery through third-party services like Grubhub.
• **Catering:** While not a primary service, many popular restaurants offer catering for events.
• **Brunch:** A very popular dining option at Melba's, particularly on weekends.
• **Dinner:** The restaurant is open for dinner, offering its full menu of Southern specialties.

### Features and Highlights

• **Huge Portions:** A major highlight is the size of the food portions, which are generous and ensure a very satisfying meal.
• **Delicious Southern Comfort Food:** The restaurant specializes in American and Southern cuisine, with customer favorites including fried chicken, smothered chicken, country catfish, and "A$AP" sugared yams.
• **Lively and Fun Atmosphere:** The vibe is consistently described as a "fun and lively place to eat," with a cool energy that makes for a great dining experience.
• **Famous Sides:** The sides are just as celebrated as the entrees, with the mac and cheese, collard greens, and garlic mashed potatoes being popular choices. Each entree typically comes with two sides.
• **Reservations Recommended:** Due to its popularity, especially on weekends, it is best to make reservations to avoid a long wait.
• **Full Bar Service:** The restaurant also offers a range of cocktails, including their own "HIT - Harlem Iced Tea," and other drinks to complement your meal.

### Contact Information

Address: 300 W 114th St, New York, NY 10026

Phone: (212) 864-7777

### What is worth choosing

Choosing Melba's Restaurant is an excellent decision for anyone in New York who is craving authentic, high-quality Southern comfort food in a fun and engaging environment. What makes it particularly worth choosing is the combination of its top-notch cuisine with an atmosphere that is truly a destination in itself. The food portions are famously large, providing incredible value for your money. Each entree is a feast, and the inclusion of two generous sides means you'll leave feeling more than satisfied. The signature dishes, from the legendary chicken and waffles to the savory smothered chicken, are prepared with a touch of homestyle goodness that you can't find just anywhere. The candied yams are a standout, and the mac and cheese is a must-try. While some dishes might be a bit salty for some palates, this is a common characteristic of Southern comfort food and is often part of its authentic charm.

Beyond the food, the vibrant and "lively" atmosphere is a major reason to visit. Melba's is not a quiet, formal dining spot; it's a celebration of food and community. This energy makes it a perfect place for a social meal, whether for a birthday celebration or a gathering with friends. The staff, while busy, is generally praised for being "great" and attentive, which adds to the welcoming feel of the place. The fact that the restaurant is so popular that it warrants reservations on weekends speaks to its reputation and the demand for its food. This is a place where you can relax, have a good time, and enjoy a meal that feels both comforting and special. It’s the kind of restaurant that makes you want to come back again and again, as one customer noted, despite a minor wait time.

Ultimately, what is worth choosing about Melba's Restaurant is the full experience it provides. It's a place where you can get a truly fantastic, authentic American and Southern meal. It's an establishment that has a strong identity and a clear understanding of its role in the Harlem community and beyond. The combination of its delicious, generously portioned food, its lively and social atmosphere, and its reputation as a beloved local institution makes it a premier dining destination in New York City. For a taste of Southern hospitality and some of the best comfort food in town, a visit to Melba's is an essential experience. It’s more than just a restaurant; it’s a genuine piece of New York's cultural and culinary landscape.

Melba's Restaurant

300 W 114th St, New York, NY 10026, USA