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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Best of New York

Upscale shrimp and grits

Made for those who seek out the most refined, high-end interpretations of Southern classics in a polished setting.

Based on 665 Opinions
+662
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Updated May 2026
01
CZEN Restaurant image 1
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Asian fusion restaurant

Small Asian fusion restaurant with handmade upside-down umbrellas and Asian-Caribbean decor creates a cozy atmosphere. Loud music from a DJ and live entertainment like violin and karaoke add energetic vibes. Outdoor seating offers a simplified backyard view.

People are saying

"The food here is amazing, especially the chicken and waffles."

"The DJ played great music that enhanced the lively vibe."

"The oxtail ramen and sushi here are out of this world."

Good to know

1

Reservations are a must to dine in, especially for brunch.

2

Brunch seating stops around 1 or 2 PM, so call ahead.

3

The restaurant only serves brunch on Sundays.

02
Red Rooster Harlem image 1

Restaurant offers live jazz performances with a colorful African American decor that creates a soulful atmosphere. The space includes a covered terrace and a bar area, though the bar can feel cramped. The vibe is engaging and lively, especially during music events.

Creamy texture and great-sized portions stand out in the shrimp and grits. The dish tastes rich and is consistently tasty and satisfying.

The space feels like an elegant supper club from the Harlem Renaissance with a refined and elegant atmosphere. The design and vibe create a distinctly aesthetically pleasing setting.

People are saying

"The American food, especially the fried chicken, is crispy and delicious."

"The live music here is great, especially the jazz."

"The Shrimp And Grits were wonderful, served with okra and chorizo broth."

Good to know

1

Make a reservation well in advance, especially for Sunday brunch.

2

Gospel brunch is held every Sunday and features live music.

3

Happy hour runs from noon to 10 p.m. with discounted appetizers and cocktails.

03
DEJA BREW CAFE image 1

Cozy cafรฉ with charming decor and soft lighting creates a warm, inviting atmosphere. Board games and a DJ playing Soca music add a relaxed, playful vibe. Small, beautiful space feels like a hidden oasis in a busy neighborhood.

Shrimp and grits come with unmatched creaminess that feels like a warm hug in a bowl. The jerk shrimp version adds a spicy twist to the classic dish.

Uniquely elegant, elevated coffee defines the menu. The atmosphere feels very elegant and upscale throughout.

People are saying

"The food here is fresh, well-cooked, and absolutely delicious."

"It's such a cozy spot, I loved the warm and inviting atmosphere."

"The coffee here is excellent, perfect for a chill break."

Good to know

1

The cafe offers various coffee options that rotate every month.

2

The brunch menu is great with a variety of choices.

3

The establishment is POC owned, adding to its unique vibe.

04
The Good Good image 1
Restaurant

Restaurant offers an intimate, speakeasy-style setting with afro-centric decor and gold accents that create a cozy, eclectic vibe. Music and a fabulous cocktail bar enhance the sexy, nostalgic atmosphere reminiscent of early 2000s nightlife. Limited space and strict reservations keep the crowd exclusive and the energy focused on quality dining and drinks.

Shrimp and grits feature a burnt roasted taste on the shrimp and very creamy grits. Adding a side of bacon complements the dish well.

The atmosphere feels elegant and the service runs easy and smooth. Food matches the vibe with a delicious touch.

People are saying

"The food and drinks here are amazing for date spots."

"The vibe here is elegant and intimate, like a speakeasy."

"The Shrimp and Grits are Southern Grandma certified."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended because the space is small.

2

A hamburger costs $26, which is especially high for East Harlem.

3

The kitchen is open until 10:30 PM.

05
Lady Blue image 1
Cocktail bar

Cocktail bar with charming decor and booth seating creates a vibrant atmosphere filled with loud, lively music that builds as the night progresses. Unique cocktails like the Earl Grey Martini and bottomless mimosas complement the energetic vibe. The space feels inviting and stylish, making it a notable spot for a night out or brunch.

Savory, satisfying flavors define the shrimp and grits here. It pairs well with hearty dishes like steak and eggs.

People are saying

"The loaded tots were perfect for brunch."

"The happy hour drinks here are great and strong."

"The atmosphere here is so cool, with great music and art."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from Monday to Friday, 4 to 7 PM.

2

The bottomless brunch includes unlimited cocktails for 1 hour and 30 minutes.

3

$25 bottomless mimosas available with a brunch entree purchase.

06
VALERIE image 1
Cocktail bar

Retro-inspired space offers a stunning venue with live jazz and swing bands during brunch, creating a lively and classy atmosphere. The bar features an amazing gin selection and outstanding cocktails that stand out. Music volume can be high, sometimes making conversation difficult.

Buttery grits pair with perfectly cooked shrimp for a rich, satisfying dish. The shrimp and grits stand out as a must-have option here.

Atmosphere feels elegant and sophisticated with a lively 1930s vibe. Architecture impresses with beautiful design and service matches the upscale setting.

People are saying

"The cocktails here are delicious and creative."

"The brunch staff here is so attentive and friendly."

"It's an elegant, sophisticated spot perfect for a date night."

Good to know

1

Happy hour includes cocktails and $1 oysters from 4-7 PM on weekdays.

2

Guests must leave within one hour due to bookings for events.

3

You should arrive between 11:30 AM and 2:30 PM to catch the live performance.

07
Kaia South African Farmhouse Restaurant image 1

Wine bar offers cozy atmosphere with outdoor seating and lively music. Space suits both small and large groups, though tables sit close together. Known for superb craft cocktails and a strong selection of South African wines.

Shrimp and grits feature rich flavor and a consistent taste. The dish is priced on the higher side but delivers well.

People are saying

"The food at this Bar is consistently satisfying and worth returning for."

"The sliders and deviled eggs during Happy Hour are fantastic."

"The Malva pudding here is simply divine."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 4-7 PM with $8 wines and charcuterie combo.

2

Reservations are only accepted for groups of five or more.

3

The venue is not wheelchair accessible due to steep stairs.

08
Blackbarn image 1
American restaurant

Barn-inspired space with rustic charm and exposed steel beams creates a warm and stylish atmosphere. Spacious layout supports private dining rooms and live music, fostering a cozy yet lively vibe. Guests mingle comfortably in an environment that balances cozy sophistication with festive energy.

Elegant and welcoming ambiance blends with rustic charm from old barn wood and exposed steel beams. Service stays pretty good and elegant, ensuring no one lacks attention.

People are saying

"I've had top culinary experiences here, including with Chef John Doherty."

"The Brunch service was wonderfully attentive and personable."

"The food here is a sophisticated culinary experience."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended for dinner, especially on weekends.

2

Happy hour offers half-price drinks and appetizers from 4-6pm daily.

3

A 20% gratuity is automatically added to large parties.

09
Filรฉ Gumbo Bar image 1
Creole restaurant

Open concept bar and live jazz trio create a lively, somewhat loud atmosphere with a trendy, upscale decor featuring mustard yellow accents. The space draws a crowd seeking authentic Creole cuisine and vibrant flavors, with music often parading through the dining area. Seating is assigned and intimate, enhancing the energetic yet cozy vibe.

Shrimp and grits come with great flavor and a delicious taste. Variations include garlic shrimp and chilled spot shrimp, often paired with chargrilled oysters or served alongside French toast.

Elegant and inviting ambiance sets the tone. Live music complements the sophisticated decor and creates a welcoming atmosphere.

People are saying

"The American Food here, especially the oysters and shrimp, is the best I've ever tasted."

"The gumbo here is rich, flavorful, and comforting."

"The garlic butter shrimp and grits were perfect."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended due to the restaurant's popularity.

2

The restaurant will have a jazz trio and parade every weekend.

3

Their happy hour is from 3-6pm with specialty cocktails for $12.

10
DJONDJON image 1
Haitian restaurant

Authentic Caribbean restaurant with Haitian paintings and artistic decor creates a cozy atmosphere. Loud live Haitian music fills the space, making conversation difficult but energizing the environment. Outdoor seating offers a comfortable and pleasant experience.

Shrimp and grits come with a rich, creamy texture and well-seasoned shrimp. The dish balances flavors smoothly and feels hearty without being heavy.

Space feels very elegant and refined. It offers a distinctively upscale vibe for Haitian cuisine.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be amazing and flavorful."

"The staff here makes for amazing Date Spots, so attentive and friendly."

"The ambiance here is perfect for a romantic date night."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 4-7pm on weekdays with half-price appetizers.

2

Karaoke starts at 10pm on Wednesdays with a two-drink minimum.

3

The bar has a game night on Wednesday.

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New York, New York

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