Sylvia’s

Our Manhattan farewell in a few images

Our Manhattan farewell in a few images

We've probably consumed too many of the slow-dissolve photo montages looking back on the year just concluded. Or too many listicles of the greatest fill-in-the-blanks. But we can't help concluding our series of Manhattan posts with a shout-out to some of the folks in the food industry who made that month so memorable. The urge to feed people is a kind and generous impulse. Thanks to these folks who made us feel appreciated. Here's back at you. Waitress at Junior's in Brooklyn, counter grill cook at S&P Lunch, waiter at Lombardi's Food cart operator for Nathan's Famous, waiter at Sylvia's, waitress at Lexington Candy Shop Frankie Frank at Hajji's Deli, hot dog server at Katz's Delicatessen, counter woman at Magnolia Bakery
Sylvia’s carries the banner for Harlem soul food

Sylvia’s carries the banner for Harlem soul food

When we visited Sylvia's Restaurant (328 Malcolm X Boulevard, New York, NY; 212-996-0660, sylviasrestaurant.com) a few days before Thanksgiving, our server Ali reminded us that we could return on the holiday if we wanted. ‶We're full up on reservations,″ he said, ‶but if you have no place else to go, we'll fit you in. Sylvia's believes no one should go hungry on Thanksgiving.″ That same spirit of welcome embodies Sylvia's throughout the year. Founded in 1962 by Sylvia Woods (whose family still operates it), the restaurant remains a standard-bearer of authentic soul food. Moreover, it's a community favorite, a touchstone of urban Black culture, and a Mecca for politicians courting the Black vote. Some of their photos line the walls, along with signed photos of...Read More